JUNK REMOVAL BUSINESS LAUNCH CHECKLIST
From https://www.brix.so/start/junk-removal (updated 2026-10-24)
Print it, tick it off, keep it in the truck.

DAY 1

[ ] Print the fee schedule for every landfill and transfer station within 30 minutes, including minimums and per-item surcharges
[ ] Ask your city and county whether haulers need a license, registration or franchise permit
[ ] Add up your truck and trailer GVWR and check it against the USDOT and CDL thresholds
[ ] Register the business, get a free EIN and open a business bank account
[ ] Buy general liability, commercial auto and inland marine coverage before the first load
[ ] Write a price sheet by truck volume (1/8, 1/4, 1/2, full) with a minimum charge and item surcharges
[ ] Write a list of items you won't take: paint, chemicals, propane tanks, asbestos and anything your dump refuses
[ ] Get a business phone number on the truck and every flyer

MONTH 3

[ ] Compare dump fees against what you charged on each job and fix loads you priced too low
[ ] Find a donation center, a scrap metal yard and a mattress or e-waste recycler, and use them to cut tipping fees
[ ] Ask every customer for a Google review before you drive away
[ ] Call property managers, realtors and estate sale companies for repeat cleanouts
[ ] Text back missed calls within minutes; junk jobs go to whoever shows up first
[ ] Keep weight tickets and dump receipts with each job for your books

YEAR 1

[ ] Add workers' comp and lifting training before your first helper starts
[ ] Decide whether a bigger truck or a dump trailer pays off, and whether it changes your DOT or CDL status
[ ] Offer cleanouts, light demolition or appliance haul-away if your area has demand
[ ] Raise your minimum and per-load prices when tipping fees go up
[ ] Review insurance limits before taking commercial or construction debris work
[ ] Track revenue by lead source and stop paying for the ones that don't book

Rules, fees and licensing vary by state, county and city. Check your state
agencies and local licensing office before you take paid work. This checklist
is not legal or tax advice.

Questions? Call or text (518) 588-1122, or book 15 minutes:
https://cal.com/ethanharris/15min