How to Clear a House Full of Junk | Haul Away Guy Chattanooga

Isaac Caza • June 4, 2025

Meet the Author

Isaac Caza - Owner and Founder of Haul Away Guy

Isaac Caza is the owner and founder of Haul Away Guy, a leading junk removal and dumpster rental service based in Chattanooga, TN. Since 2022, he’s been committed to making junk removal simple, reliable, and eco-friendly for homeowners, businesses, and contractors alike. With a hands-on approach and a passion for helping people reclaim their space, Isaac continues to make a positive impact across the Chattanooga community—one cleanup at a time.

Standing in a house full of junk—every room cluttered, closets bursting, attic packed to the rafters—can feel downright paralyzing. Whether you’ve inherited a property in Chattanooga, you're helping a loved one downsize, or life’s just gotten out of hand, facing a whole-house cleanout is no small feat.



It’s not just about tossing things in trash bags. It’s about figuring out what stays, what goes, what’s valuable, what’s junk—and how in the world you’re going to get it all out the door.


But here’s the good news: you don’t have to do it alone, and it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With the right plan, a few tools (and maybe a few helping hands), you can reclaim the space—and the sanity—room by room.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to:


  • Create a solid game plan
  • Sort and stage items efficiently
  • Use Chattanooga's city services and local resources
  • Know when to rent a dumpster or call the pros
  • Handle donations, recycling, hazardous waste, and more

When You Might Be Facing a Whole-House Junk Cleanout

Clearing out a house full of junk isn’t usually something you wake up one day and decide to do for fun. More often than not, it’s triggered by a major life event—something emotional, urgent, or simply long overdue.



If you're reading this, chances are one of these common scenarios sounds all too familiar.

4 most difficult cleanouts infographic

Whichever situation you’re facing, know this: You’re not the only one. Chattanooga residents go through this all the time—and there are local resources, pros, and strategies to help you get through it.

Start with a Game Plan

Before you touch a single box or start tossing things into garbage bags, you need a strategy. Trying to clean out an entire house without a plan is like trying to run a marathon in flip-flops—messy, painful, and probably doomed to fail.


The good news? A little prep upfront will save you hours of chaos and second-guessing down the road.


Walk the Property and Assess the Situation


Start with a walkthrough of the entire house, including attics, basements, closets, garages, and outdoor sheds. Take notes—or better yet, snap photos—of each space.

Ask yourself:


  • How many rooms are fully packed?
  • What areas will take the longest?
  • Where are the obvious hazards (broken furniture, pet messes, bugs)?
  • Which spaces can double as sorting or staging zones?


Make a Room-by-Room Checklist


Once you’ve seen the whole picture, break it down into smaller bites:


  • List every room or zone
  • Assign a priority level: “Urgent,” “Easy Win,” or “Wait Until Later”
  • Estimate how long each area will take to clean
  • Decide where you’ll start—and commit to it


Starting with a smaller, manageable area like a guest room or hallway closet can build quick momentum and confidence.


Identify Safety Hazards Before You Begin


This is especially important in hoarding cases or old, neglected properties.

Look out for:


  • Mold or mildew
  • Sharp objects or broken glass
  • Rodents, insects, or droppings
  • Water damage or structural issues
  • Bulky items that could fall, tip, or trap someone


Arm yourself with gloves, masks, sturdy shoes, and a flashlight before tackling these zones—and don’t hesitate to call in professionals if anything seems risky.



Pro Tip: Print out your checklist and hang it somewhere visible. Checking off rooms as you go is both motivating and satisfying—like your own mini junk-removal scoreboard.

Sort Everything Into 4 Categories

Now that you’ve walked the property and built your room-by-room roadmap, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and start sorting. The goal here isn’t to toss everything into bags—it’s to make smart, quick decisions so you can move efficiently through the house.


The easiest (and least overwhelming) way to do this is to sort items into four clear categories: Keep, Donate, Recycle, and Trash.


1. Keep

This pile should be very selective.

Keep only:


  • Items with clear emotional or practical value
  • Essentials for the next living situation (if applicable)
  • Sentimental keepsakes—but not every single thing


If you're helping someone else downsize, ask: “Will this be used in the next 6–12 months?”


Use plastic totes, labeled boxes, or sealable bins to store and organize what’s staying.


2. Donate

Gently used items can often find new life with someone else. Create a donation zone for:


  • Furniture in good condition
  • Clothing (clean and wearable)
  • Kitchenware and small appliances
  • Books, toys, decor, and linens


In Chattanooga, places like Habitat for Humanity ReStore, Chattanooga Furniture Bank, and Goodwill all accept donations and may offer free pickup for larger loads. We’ll list them out in Section 8.


3. Recycle

Keep recyclables out of the landfill! Set aside:


  • Cardboard boxes (flatten them)
  • Scrap metal (bed frames, shelving)
  • Electronics (TVs, computers, phones)
  • Glass and plastics (check Chattanooga’s recycling rules)


Many recycling centers around Chattanooga accept these materials, and some junk removal companies will sort and recycle for you.


4. Trash

This is where the actual junk goes, stuff that’s broken, stained, rotted, moldy, or just plain useless. This may include:



  • Old mattresses
  • Broken furniture
  • Food waste or expired pantry goods
  • Unusable paper clutter
  • Anything damaged by pests or water


Use heavy-duty contractor bags and label these clearly for pickup, dumpster, or dump runs.


Bonus Tip: Use painter’s tape or sticky notes to tag large items instead of moving them multiple times. Label “KEEP,” “TRASH,” or “DONATE” right where they sit.

Don’t Go It Alone: Build a Junk Crew

Clearing out a house full of junk isn’t just a job—it’s a mission, and one that’s way more doable with a few helping hands. Whether you’re sorting through sentimental keepsakes or dragging out old furniture, the process is faster, safer, and far less overwhelming with support.


So before you dive in solo, consider this your permission to call in backup. Friends and Family: Your First Line of Defense


Sometimes, all you need is a couple of reliable friends, siblings, or even adult kids to:


  • Help with heavy lifting
  • Make quick “keep or toss” decisions
  • Provide moral support during emotional cleanouts
  • Keep you focused and honest (do you really need six broken lamps?)


Tip: Bribe them with pizza, cold drinks, and a promise that “this won’t take all day” (even if it will).


Paid Help: Worth It When the Job’s Big

If the cleanup is extensive, emotionally difficult, or time-sensitive, hiring help can be a game-changer. Consider:


  • Local laborers or handymen (for moving and hauling)
  • Professional organizers (for sorting and staging)
  • Junk removal crews (for full-service clearouts—more on that soon)


Chattanooga has several companies that offer fast, professional help at fair prices—especially useful if you’re on a deadline or tackling a large estate.


Specialists for Sensitive Situations

If the home involves hoarding, biohazards, or structural safety issues, it's best to work with professionals who specialize in extreme cleanouts. These experts can:


  • Wear proper protective gear
  • Safely handle dangerous items or infestations
  • Follow disposal laws for biohazards or chemicals


Don't put yourself at risk—if it feels like too much, it probably is.



Reminder: Asking for help isn’t a sign of weakness. It’s the smartest way to get through a big, messy project with your sanity (and maybe your back) intact.

Clear One Room at a Time (And Close the Door Behind You)

Here’s the secret to making a whole-house junk cleanout actually doable: focus on one room at a time. Don’t bounce from basement to bedroom to kitchen. Don’t chase clutter around like it’s a game of whack-a-mole. Instead, pick a room—any room—and finish it. Completely.


Then? Close the door. Celebrate the win. Move on.


Why This Works

  • It prevents burnout and decision fatigue
  • It gives you small victories to stay motivated
  • It helps track progress (which feels amazing)
  • It keeps you from creating new messes in half-done rooms


This approach is especially helpful in emotionally heavy cleanouts, where every room might contain memories, sentimental items, or difficult choices. Tidy closure (literally and mentally) helps you keep going.


Where Should You Start?

Here are a few strategies:

  • Start with the easiest room. Something low-emotion and low-volume, like a guest room or hallway closet.
  • Or start with the worst room. If you need a dramatic before-and-after, tackle the junkiest room first to get major momentum.
  • Or go for function. Clear out the kitchen or bathroom so you have a usable space during the rest of the process.


Whatever you choose, stick with it until that space is done.


Finish Means Finished

Before you leave a room:


  • Remove all trash
  • Take donation items to the staging area
  • Vacuum, sweep, or wipe down surfaces
  • Close the door (literally or symbolically)


Then give yourself a break. That’s one less room to think about tomorrow.



Pro Tip: Write “DONE” on a sticky note and slap it on the door. It’s surprisingly satisfying.

Set Up Staging Zones: What Goes Where

If you're clearing out an entire house, you’ll quickly realize: you need space to organize the chaos. That’s where staging zones come in. These are designated spots—inside or outside the house—where you temporarily group sorted items before hauling, donating, or dumping them.


Without staging zones, everything ends up jumbled and your progress feels invisible. With them? You’ve got clarity, control, and momentum.


Create Clearly Labeled Zones for:

  • Keep – Items staying in the house or moving with you
  • Donate – Usable items in good condition for local charities
  • Trash – Broken, damaged, or unusable junk
  • Recycle – Cardboard, metals, electronics, etc.
  • Hazardous Waste – Paint, batteries, cleaners (we’ll cover this later)


Use painter’s tape and big bold signs to label each area. If you’re working with helpers, this ensures everyone knows where things belong.


Best Places to Set Up Staging Zones

Inside the house:

  • Dining room
  • Garage
  • Unused guest room
  • Closets (for small-item sorting)


Outside:

  • Driveway
  • Covered patio or porch
  • Side yard (watch the weather!)


Just make sure the area is accessible for loading into a truck, trailer, or junk removal van.


Avoid Blocking Essential Paths

Keep doorways, hallways, stairs, and emergency exits clear at all times—especially if large furniture or appliances are coming through. Tripping over your own trash is never a good time.


Pro Tip: If you’re donating a lot, contact local charities early—they may offer free pickup, and knowing that date helps you stay on schedule.

Chattanooga Donation Options for Usable Items

Not everything in a house full of junk is actually… junk. Some of it is still useful—just not useful to you anymore. Instead of tossing that lightly worn loveseat or set of dishes, consider donating them to a local Chattanooga organization that can give them new life.


It’s a win-win: you declutter, someone else benefits, and less stuff ends up in the landfill.


Habitat for Humanity ReStore – Chattanooga

  • Accepts: Furniture, appliances, tools, building materials, home decor
  • Perks: Offers free pickup for large items
  • Bonus: Proceeds support affordable housing construction
    🔗
    Visit Website


Chattanooga Furniture Bank

  • Accepts: Gently used beds, sofas, chairs, and small tables
  • Mission: Provides furnishings for families transitioning out of homelessness
  • Requirements: Items must be in good, usable condition
    🔗
    Learn More


Goodwill Industries of Chattanooga

  • Accepts: Clothing, shoes, electronics, small furniture, housewares
  • Locations: Multiple drop-off sites across the city
  • Reminder: Furniture donations must be clean and free from rips or stains
    🔗
    Find a Location


Other Donation Outlets

  • The Salvation Army Family Store – Great for clothing and small household goods
  • Rescue Mission Thrift Store – Accepts donations that help support recovery programs
  • Buy Nothing Groups – Offer items directly to locals via Facebook (no need to haul across town)


Pro Tip: Always call ahead or check the organization’s website before showing up—each location has different guidelines on what they’ll take and when they’ll accept it.

What the City Will Pick Up for Free

Before you load everything into a truck or call in a junk removal service, don’t forget that the City of Chattanooga offers free bulk trash pickup for residential customers—and yes, that includes quite a bit of what you’d find during a house-wide cleanout.


It’s one of the best-kept (and budget-saving) secrets in town. You just need to know what they’ll take, when to set it out, and what won’t make the cut.


Bulk Waste Pickup Basics

  • Offered every other week on your regular trash day (depending on location)
  • No appointment necessary—just place items curbside by 7:00 AM
  • Items must be placed away from power lines, mailboxes, or fences

🔗 Check your collection schedule here


What You Can Set Out

  • Furniture (couches, mattresses, tables, chairs)
  • Appliances (no freon!)
  • Carpet (cut into 4-foot sections and rolled)
  • Bagged leaves and small yard debris
  • Mattresses and box springs


Just be sure to keep bulk items separated from your regular trash bin.


Items the City Won’t Take

  • Construction debris (wood, drywall, shingles, flooring)
  • Hazardous waste (paint, chemicals, batteries)
  • Freon appliances (fridges, freezers, AC units unless properly drained and tagged)
  • Auto parts, tires, or electronics
  • Overloaded piles that block the street or sidewalk


For those items, you’ll need to use local drop-off centers (we’re covering that next) or contact a junk removal company for proper disposal.


Pro Tip: If you’ve got more than a few items or you're not sure if something qualifies, call 311 or use the city's mobile app for quick clarification.

Local Drop-Off Sites and Transfer Stations

If you’ve got a trailer load of junk, items the city won’t pick up, or just want to knock it all out in one go, Chattanooga has several convenience centers and transfer stations ready to take it off your hands.


These are perfect for:

  • DIY junk haulers
  • Construction debris
  • Extra-large cleanouts
  • Stuff you need gone right now


Birchwood Landfill & Transfer Station


8825 Birchwood Pike, Harrison, TN

  • Accepts residential waste, large furniture, foam, and non-recyclable parts
  • Fees are based on weight
  • Open Monday–Friday, 6:00 AM to 4:00 PM

🔗 More info


Recycling Centers (for Metal and Components)

If your junk pile includes metal frames, old appliances, or e-waste, take them to one of these places.


  • They accept bulk metal, copper, and electric parts—call ahead to confirm hours and residential drop-off rules


What to Bring With You

  • A valid photo ID
  • Proof of Chattanooga or Hamilton County residency
  • A tarp and tie-downs (required for all open loads)
  • A card or cash to cover dumping fees (depends on the site)


Pro Tip: These sites get busy on weekends and holidays. If possible, aim for a midweek morning trip to avoid long lines.

What NOT to Toss: Hazardous Junk

Not everything can go in the trash—no matter how tempting it is when you’re knee-deep in a house cleanout. Certain materials are considered hazardous waste and need to be handled separately for safety and legal reasons.


And yes, Chattanooga has a solution for that too.



Common Household Hazardous Waste Items

Household Hazardous Waste Items Infographic

If it has a warning label, smells strong, or could catch fire/explode—assume it’s hazardous.


Where to Take Hazardous Waste in Chattanooga


Head to the Household Hazardous Waste Facility, operated by Hamilton County:


3925 N Hawthorne St, Chattanooga, TN 37406

Accepted items:

  • All listed above
  • Pool chemicals
  • Aerosol cans
  • Cleaning supplies
  • Oil-based products and solvents

🔗 Facility Info Here


Do NOT Toss These in the Trash or Curbside

Even if they seem small or harmless, improperly disposing of hazardous items can:

  • Harm sanitation workers
  • Contaminate groundwater
  • Start fires in garbage trucks or landfills
  • Earn you serious fines


Always separate these items early and plan a dedicated drop-off.


Pro Tip: Put hazardous items in a plastic bin marked "Do Not Trash" and store it in a garage or closet until your next trip to the facility.

Recycle What You Can

When clearing out a house full of junk, it’s easy to default to “toss it all.” But slow down just a second—a surprising amount of that clutter can actually be recycled right here in Chattanooga.


Recycling keeps items out of the landfill, reduces cleanup costs, and just plain feels better than sending a mountain of junk to the dump.


What Can Be Recycled in Chattanooga?


As you're sorting, set aside anything that fits these categories:


  • Cardboard – Boxes, packaging (must be clean and flattened)
  • Scrap metal – Bed frames, shelving, old grills, appliance parts
  • Electronics – TVs, monitors, printers, computer parts (see e-waste section below)
  • Glass jars and bottles – Must be rinsed and color-separated
  • Plastic containers – Labeled #1 and #2 only (check the triangle)
  • Aluminum cans – Soda and food cans, rinsed


What NOT to Recycle

Even if you wish you could, avoid tossing these in the bin:

  • Plastic bags or wrappers
  • Styrofoam
  • Greasy pizza boxes or food containers
  • Batteries
  • Tangled cords or string lights


These can contaminate the entire load and cause processing delays.


Where to Recycle Electronics and E-Waste

For TVs, computers, cables, and other electronics, Chattanooga provides special drop-off programs and facilities.


  • Orange Grove Recycling Center
  • 615 Derby Street | Chattanooga, TN 37404
  • Accepts electronics, paper, cardboard, and more
  • Great for large loads or business e-waste


Curbside Recycling Tip

If you're a city resident, Chattanooga offers curbside recycling pickup for qualified neighborhoods.
🔗
Check eligibility or drop-off options here


Pro Tip: Use bins, boxes, or clear bags to keep recyclables separate while you sort. It’ll save time and trips later.

Renting a Dumpster: Worth It or Not?

When you’re dealing with a house that’s jam-packed from attic to crawlspace, hauling junk one load at a time can get old—fast. That’s where renting a dumpster comes in. It’s not for everyone, but in the right scenario, it can be a game-changer.


Let’s break down when it’s worth it and what to expect.


When a Dumpster Makes Sense


  • You have a LOT of junk (think: full rooms or garages of throw-away-only items)
  • You're doing a full renovation or gut job while clearing out
  • You want the freedom to clean at your own pace over a few days
  • You’re removing construction debris, heavy items, or mixed loads that city pickup won’t touch


If the city’s bulk pickup rules are too restrictive or junk removal quotes are out of your budget, a dumpster can be the sweet spot between DIY and pro service.


How Much Does It Cost in Chattanooga?


Dumpster rental prices vary based on size, length of rental, and type of material.


Here’s a general range:


  • 10-yard dumpster (good for 1–2 rooms): $250–$350
  • 20-yard dumpster (mid-size jobs): $350–$450
  • 30-yard+ (full house cleanouts): $450–$600+
  • Most rentals include 5–7 days, with a fee for extra days or weight overages


Some trusted local providers:


  • Dumpster Rentals of Chattanooga
  • Bin There Dump That Chattanooga
  • Waste Connections Tennessee


Things to Consider Before Renting



  • Where will it go? Make sure you’ve got a flat spot like a driveway (some permits needed for street placement)
  • What are you tossing? Some materials (like mattresses, electronics, or tires) may incur extra fees
  • Weight limits apply – Exceeding them can add hundreds to your final bill
  • Don’t overload – Debris must be level with the top edge for safe pickup


Pro Tip: If your cleanout is under a tight deadline or you want it all gone in one go, a dumpster gives you freedom and control—and can be more cost-effective than multiple trips to a landfill.

When to Call a Junk Removal Company

There comes a point—usually around bag #27 or when you're staring at that 400-pound armoire—where you realize: you need backup. If the job is too big, too messy, or too stressful to handle solo (or even with help), it’s time to consider calling in the pros.

Junk removal companies aren’t just for the rich or lazy—they’re for anyone who values their time, energy, and sanity during a massive cleanout.


What Junk Removal Companies Actually Do

  • Lift and load everything from wherever it’s sitting—attics, basements, yards
  • Sort, donate, and recycle what they can
  • Safely dispose of furniture, appliances, trash, debris, and more
  • Offer single-item pickup or full-property cleanouts
  • Some even sweep up after themselves (yes, really)


You don’t even have to drag things to the curb—they’ll do it all.


Perfect Situations for Junk Removal Services

  • Estate cleanouts when you're on a tight timeline
  • Hoarding or heavy accumulation, you can’t manage alone
  • Physical limitations (injury, age, or lack of help)
  • Out-of-town property owners handling cleanouts remotely
  • Rental turnovers where the last tenant left a mess


The Real Value? Time and Peace of Mind


When pros are handling the junk:

  • You don’t have to rent a truck or a dumpster
  • You won’t spend days sorting, lifting, and hauling
  • You avoid injury, property damage, or costly disposal mistakes
  • You can focus on what matters—like family, selling the property, or moving forward


If you want to clear out a house full of junk but don’t know where to start, we can help. At Haul Away Guy, from old furniture to random clutter, we’ll haul it all so you don’t have to. Our team shows up on time, works fast, and leaves your space clean. Just point us to the mess—we’ll handle the rest.

Chattanooga’s Top Junk Removal Services

When it’s time to call in the pros, you want a team that’s fast, fair, and knows exactly how to handle a full-house junk job. Luckily, Chattanooga has some excellent, locally trusted junk removal companies that can take this entire task off your plate—quickly and professionally.


Here are the top players in town and what they bring to the table.


Eco-Friendly Disposal Options

Most of these services go beyond the dump. They’ll:

  • Donate usable items to local charities
  • Recycle electronics, scrap, and cardboard
  • Properly dispose of mattresses, appliances, and non-standard items


When you hire a pro, you’re also making the more eco-conscious choice, without having to sort it all yourself.



Pro Tip: Ask about curbside discounts—some companies offer reduced rates if you leave items outside for easier access.

Junk Removal vs. Dumpster Rental: Which Is Right for You?

Torn between renting a dumpster and hiring a junk removal crew? You’re not alone—it’s one of the most common questions people have when tackling a major cleanout.



The truth is, both options can be great—it just depends on your situation, timeline, and how hands-on you want to be.

Let’s break it down.

Junk Removal vs. Dumpster Rental

Ask Yourself:

  • Do I have help available to load everything?
  • Do I want to be done quickly, or work over several days?
  • Is the junk mostly trash, or are there items that could be donated or recycled?
  • Do I have space for a dumpster, or would a truck service be easier?


Pro Tip: If your job is massive or includes mixed materials (trash, donations, recyclables), some homeowners use both—a dumpster for trash, and a junk team for furniture and specialty items.

What to Do With Leftover Sentimental Items

Not everything in a house full of junk is junk. Some of it carries memories—old photos, childhood keepsakes, Grandma’s dishes, your dad’s tools. These sentimental items can be the hardest to deal with, and the reason many cleanouts stall out halfway through.


Here’s how to make peace with the past while still making space for the present.


Give Yourself Permission to Feel


First, understand this: it’s okay to feel emotional. Sorting through a loved one’s things or downsizing your own home can stir up grief, nostalgia, and even guilt. That’s totally normal.


Don’t rush yourself. Take breaks. And if needed, ask a friend to sit with you during the tougher moments.


Set Limits With Memory Boxes

Rather than keeping every single memento, set up a small “keep forever” box (or one per family member). Choose items that:


  • Spark happy memories
  • Represent a person or era
  • Can’t be easily replaced
  • You’ll actually revisit or display


The rest? Consider letting go.


Digitize What You Can


Photos, letters, cards, and artwork can be scanned or photographed before being donated or recycled. Services like Legacybox or apps like PhotoScan by Google make it easy.


This way, you preserve the memory without holding onto the clutter.


Pass Items on to Others

Sometimes the most meaningful thing you can do with sentimental items is give them a new home:


  • Offer family heirlooms to relatives or close friends
  • Donate vintage items to local historical societies or theaters
  • Create a memory shadow box or repurpose keepsakes into art Sharing is healing.


Pro Tip: If an item makes you cry or pause, set it aside and revisit it later—just don’t let it block your progress in the moment.

Safety Tips for Big Cleanouts

When you’re deep into a full-house junk removal project, it’s easy to overlook safety—until something goes wrong. The reality is, big cleanouts come with real physical and environmental hazards. From moldy boxes to heavy furniture, it pays to be prepared.


Here’s how to protect yourself (and your crew) every step of the way.


Gear Up Properly


At a minimum, wear:


  • Work gloves – For splinters, nails, and sharp edges
  • Sturdy shoes or boots – Skip the flip-flops, seriously
  • Long sleeves and pants – Especially in garages, attics, or crawlspaces
  • A dust mask or respirator – For mold, insulation, and dust-heavy areas
  • Eye protection – When dealing with debris or unknown materials


Watch Out for Hazards


Before you grab and go, scan your surroundings for:


  • Rodent or insect infestations
  • Black mold or mildew
  • Broken glass, rusty nails, or sharp metal
  • Wobbly furniture or stacked boxes
  • Pet waste or biohazards in neglected areas


If anything feels unsafe or overwhelming, pause. Some situations require pros with proper training and equipment, especially if biohazards or structural risks are involved.


Be Careful in Attics, Basements, and Crawlspaces



  • Check for weak flooring or exposed wiring
  • Bring portable lighting—never rely on a phone flashlight
  • Use ladders correctly and avoid overreaching
  • In basements, check for water damage or slippery surfaces


These zones often hold forgotten items and real hazards.


Stay Hydrated and Take Breaks


Junk removal is physical labor. Drink water, stretch, and pace yourself, especially in the Tennessee summer heat.


Pro Tip: Keep a first-aid kit on-site and make sure your phone is charged in case of emergency. Safety first, junk second.

What to Expect When Hiring Professionals

So you’ve decided to call in the pros—smart move. Whether it’s a full house cleanout or just the worst of it, professional junk removal services can save you time, labor, and a whole lot of stress. But what exactly happens when they show up?


Here’s what you can expect from start to finish.


Step 1: The Estimate

Most Chattanooga junk removal companies offer:

  • Free, no-obligation estimates (by phone or in person)
  • Quotes based on volume (how much space your junk takes in their truck)
  • Upfront pricing, so there are no surprises


💡 Pro Tip: Be honest about what you have. Underselling the mess might delay your cleanout if they didn’t bring a big enough truck.


Step 2: The Pickup Day

When the crew arrives, here’s what they typically do:

  • Walk through the property with you to confirm the job
  • Sort and separate recyclables, donations, and trash
  • Lift and load everything—no need for you to move a thing
  • Sweep up the area afterward for a fresh finish


You don’t even have to be there for the job if it’s all staged curbside or access is pre-arranged.


Step 3: The Wrap-Up

Once everything’s loaded, you’ll get:

  • A final walk-through (if you’re onsite)
  • A digital or printed invoice with a breakdown
  • Info on what was donated, recycled, or disposed of


Some companies even send before-and-after photos if you’re managing the job remotely.


What’s Typically Included:

  • Labor and hauling
  • Sorting and responsible disposal
  • Donation drop-offs or recycling
  • Fuel and disposal fees (baked into your quote)


No hourly rates, no nickel-and-diming. It’s all about simplicity and speed.

Bonus Tip: Ask about same-day or weekend availability—some companies in Chattanooga are super flexible, especially for urgent jobs or estate cleanouts.

Conclusion: Reclaim Your Space, Reclaim Your Life

Let’s be real—getting rid of a house full of junk isn’t just about trash bags and muscle. It’s about making space for peace, for possibility, for whatever comes next.


Whether you're dealing with an estate, prepping a property for sale, or just clearing out decades of clutter, every room you empty is a weight lifted. You’re not just cleaning up—you’re taking back control.



And now, you’ve got the tools to do it:

  • A clear plan
  • Chattanooga’s best donation and disposal resources
  • Smart sorting systems
  • Safe practices
  • Local pros are ready to help when you need them

Ready to clear out that cluttered house once and for all?

We’re here to help you get it done—no stress, no mess. From a single room to the whole house, we do the heavy lifting so you can breathe easier and take back your space. Let’s get your cleanout started today.


Clearing the Way Before the Listing: Hannah's Story

When Hannah needed a fast, reliable cleanout for a client’s home, she knew there wasn’t time to waste. With just a few days before the property was scheduled to hit the market, she reached out to us, hoping we could squeeze her in.


“I hired Isaac with Haul Away Guy to help with cleaning up a client's home before listing, and he was great to work with,” she shared. Despite a packed schedule, we made room. Being flexible when our neighbors need us is part of the job.



Hannah noted how easy the communication was, how professional the service felt, and how smoothly the whole process went. Her takeaway? “Will definitely be calling on Haul Away Guy in the future and recommend to anyone who may need similar services!”


How do you get rid of a house full of junk - FAQs

  • What’s the best way to start clearing out a whole house full of stuff?

    DIY is usually the cheapest—if you already have the tools, a truck, and a few friends. But if you need to rent equipment, buy tools, and pay landfill fees, it can cost almost as much as hiring a pro.


    Cheapest scenario: Inflatable or small 2-person spa, near the driveway, with no deck or electrical wiring. However, if your hot tub is larger or installed in a complex space, higher costs for labor costs and professional junk removal services can quickly add up.

  • Why is it so hard to get rid of old things?

    About 2 to 6 hours depending on size, location, and accessibility.


    Freestanding, drained, unplugged tubs can be hauled in under 2 hours. However, heavier hot tubs or those that require dismantling will take longer, especially if hot tub movers need to break it down into smaller pieces for removal.

  • Can I make money from items I don’t want anymore?

    About 2 to 6 hours depending on size, location, and accessibility.


    Freestanding, drained, unplugged tubs can be hauled in under 2 hours. However, heavier hot tubs or those that require dismantling will take longer, especially if hot tub movers need to break it down into smaller pieces for removal.

  • How do I know what to toss and what to keep?

    Sometimes. If it still works and is in decent shape, post it on Facebook Marketplace or Craigslist with a “you haul it” condition.


    But most buyers expect it to be:

    • Working
    • Drained and clean
    • Easy to access

    If it's more than 8–10 years old, most people won’t want it. Hot tub donations might be an option, but junk removal costs could be lower if the company can recycle parts of the hot tub.

  • Is it worth clearing out my house just to have fewer possessions?

    Yes—fewer possessions usually mean less stress and more freedom. When clutter builds up, it eats into your living space and makes cleaning harder. A cleanout can make your home feel fresh again and open up options, like preparing for your next rental application or planning a move. We’re here to make that reset possible.

  • Can decluttering actually save me money?

    Not usually for removal itself. But if your project involves:

    • Using a crane
    • Cutting into a deck or structural area
    • Disconnecting gas lines

    …you may need a city permit or a licensed contractor. Always check with Chattanooga’s Public Works or Building Inspections Office first for specific local regulations.

  • What if I feel overwhelmed by the amount of stuff in my home?

    Clearing out a full house is hard work—especially when life’s already busy. If you’re having a hard time getting started, you’re not alone. Many people just don’t know where to begin. The best options usually start small: pick one space, tackle what you can, and let us handle the heavy stuff. We can haul away household items and junk so you can free up room, clear your head, and feel a real sense of accomplishment.

  • Can decluttering really help my finances too?

    It can, especially if you’re dealing with medical bills, a low credit score, or struggling with bad credit from past money habits. A home full of stuff leads to extra spending and lost time. The average American family often buys duplicates just because they can’t find what they already own. Getting rid of a lot of things gives you more control and helps you avoid some of the biggest mistakes people make when trying to save. Fewer items, more space, and one less thing to worry about.

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