How to Start a Junk Removal Business: Step-by-Step Guide

Why Junk Removal?

Before we dive into the step-by-step process, let’s talk about why junk removal is a great business:

• Low startup costs compared to other service industries
• High demand in residential and commercial sectors
• Scalable operations — grow from one truck to multiple crews
• Quick cash flow once you're operational

Let’s break down exactly how to start.

Step 1: Business Name and Legal Structure

Create a Catchy and Memorable Business Name

Your business name is often the first impression. Here are some tips:

• Keep it short and easy to spell
• Reflect your service (e.g., "junk", "hauling", "cleanout")
• Check for domain name and social media handle availability
• Avoid using local city names if you plan to expand

Examples: Junk Boss, Trash Terminator, Rapid Haul, etc.

Form Your Legal Entity: LLC or Corporation?

Most small junk removal businesses start as an LLC (Limited Liability Company) because:

• It separates personal and business assets
• It’s easier and cheaper to set up than a corporation
• Offers tax flexibility

Visit your state’s Secretary of State website or use platforms like LegalZoom or ZenBusiness to form your LLC.

Step 2: Open a Business Bank Account

Once your LLC is created, get an EIN (Employer Identification Number) from the IRS (it's free) and use it to:

• Open a business checking account
• Apply for a business credit card
• Keep your finances clean and separated from personal accounts

This is essential for taxes and tracking expenses.

Step 3: Licensing and Insurance

Local Business Licenses

Depending on your city or county, you might need:

• General business license
• Waste hauler’s permit
• Environmental or disposal permits

Always check with your local city hall or municipality.

Insurance: Protect Yourself and Your Business

Here are the essential policies:

• General Liability Insurance – Covers injuries and damages
• Commercial Auto Insurance – For your dump truck or trailer
• Workers’ Compensation – If you hire employees
• Inland Marine Coverage – For tools and equipment in transit

Don’t skip insurance — a single incident can ruin your business.

Step 4: Equipment You’ll Need

Basic Tools for Every Job

You don't need a massive budget to get started. Here’s a list of essentials:

• Heavy-duty gloves
• Steel toe boots
• Safety vests and hard hats (for construction sites)
• Broom, dustpan, and shovel
• Hand truck (dolly)
• Tie-down straps and tarps

These are must-haves for safety, efficiency, and professionalism.

Larger Equipment: Truck or Dump Trailer?

You have two main options:

Option 1: Pickup Truck + Dump Trailer

Pros:

• Lower upfront cost
• Easy to upgrade later
• Can detach trailer to use truck independently

Cons:

• Requires space for trailer storage
• Slight learning curve for towing

Option 2: Isuzu NPR Dump Truck

Pros:

• Fully enclosed hydraulic dumping system
• Looks professional
• More payload capacity

Cons:

• Higher upfront cost
• Maintenance may be pricier

Start with what your budget allows — it’s more important to start than to wait for the perfect setup.

Step 5: Marketing Your Junk Removal Business

Buy Leads to Get Started

To get your phone ringing on Day 1, consider buying leads from:

• Yelp Ads – Pay-per-click local exposure
• Angi (formerly Angie’s List) – High-converting leads in your zip code
• Thumbtack – Another popular local service platform

You’ll pay per lead or per click, but it's a fast way to get initial jobs and reviews.

Google PPC: Pay-Per-Click Advertising

Once you have a few jobs and reviews, start running Google Ads:

• Target local keywords like “junk removal near me”
• Use service-area ads (LSAs) for better visibility
• Track conversions to make data-driven decisions

Google Ads offer predictable lead flow once optimized.

SEO: Build Long-Term Organic Traffic

Investing in SEO (Search Engine Optimization) helps you rank in Google search results without paying per click:

• Build a website with service pages for each city
• Add a Google Business Profile and collect reviews
• Blog regularly about topics like “how to dispose of old furniture” or “spring cleanout tips”

SEO takes time but builds a foundation for free leads long-term.

Final Thoughts: Stay Consistent and Professional

Starting a junk removal business isn’t complicated, but it does require effort and consistency. Treat every job like it matters — because it does. Customers will remember great service, clean branding, and punctuality.

📽 Don’t forget to watch the full video above for additional insights, including what I wish I had known before I started!

Quick Checklist

✅ Choose a business name
✅ Form an LLC and get an EIN
✅ Open a business bank account
✅ Get licensed and insured
✅ Buy gloves, tools, and a broom
✅ Invest in a truck or dump trailer
✅ Start with Yelp/Angi leads
✅ Launch Google Ads
✅ Work on SEO for long-term growth

Ready to Start Your Junk Removal Business?

Starting a junk removal company is one of the most straightforward paths to business ownership. With low overhead and high demand, it’s a great option for motivated entrepreneurs.

Still have questions? Drop a comment on the video or reach out — I’m here to help you succeed in this journey.