Preview: figures awaiting verification
Some numbers on this page haven't been checked against their sources yet.
Junk Removal Business
A hauling business with simple equipment and steady local demand, best run as a manager with a two-person crew because the lifting is heavy every day.
Figures last verified October 30, 2026
$5,690 – $43,590Pending verificationSourcesStartCosts — junk removal business startup costs(opens in a new tab)Tier 3 · Guide or blog · Accessed October 30, 2026California Secretary of State — LLC (domestic) forms and fees(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 30, 2026Last verified October 30, 2026Computed from 5 startup budget line items: lean plan low to professional plan high.
Startup cost
Coming soon
Time to first revenue
Moderate
Difficulty
High
Physical demand
No
Can run solo
Spring–summer peak
Seasonality
Risk Meter
Eight factors from this guide's own data, each scored 1 (lowest risk) to 5 (highest). Every score shows why.
Overall risk
Moderate
2.7 out of 5
Average of 7 of 8 factors, weighted equally. 1 is the lowest risk and 5 the highest. It measures risk, not how much you'll earn, and it isn't a prediction. How we score risk.
Money at risk
2 / 5$43,590
Top of the startup budget: $10,000 to under $50,000.
Time to earn it back
Not scoredNot scored yet
Some startup or operating cost lines aren't sourced yet, so a payback time would look shorter than it really is.
Franchise closure rate
3 / 56.7% a yearPending verificationSources1-800-GOT-JUNK? 2026 FDD (issued April 30, 2026), Minnesota CARDS(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving 2026 FDD (issued April 30, 2026, amended August 26, 2026), Minnesota CARDS(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Junk King 2026 FDD (issued April 1, 2026), Minnesota CARDS(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026The Junkluggers 2026 FDD (issued April 30, 2026), Minnesota CARDS(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Last verified October 31, 2026Closures = terminations + non-renewals + outlets that ceased operations, divided by franchised outlets at the start of the year.
Average of 4 brands: 1-800-GOT-JUNK? 0.0% (2025); College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving 15.1% (2025); Junk King 7.0% (2025); The Junkluggers 4.8% (2025). Our calculation from each FDD's Item 20.
Loan default rate
2 / 53.6% vs 7.2% for all industriesPending verificationSourceSBA 7(a) FOIA loan-level data, files as of September 30, 2026 (our count by NAICS code)(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Last verified October 31, 2026Charged off = the SBA wrote off the unpaid balance after the borrower stopped paying. An industry code can include businesses unlike this one.
29 of 803 SBA 7(a) loans to Solid Waste Collection (NAICS 562111), approved FY2010–2019, were charged off. Our count from the SBA's loan-level data; 45 loans were still open, so the final rate may be slightly higher.
Demand trend
3 / 5About the samePending verificationSourcesU.S. Census Bureau — County Business Patterns 2019, U.S. file (cbp19us)(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026U.S. Census Bureau — County Business Patterns 2023, U.S. file (cbp23us)(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Last verified October 31, 2026
Solid waste collection, which includes local rubbish hauling (NAICS 562111): employer establishments +6.5% (10,314 to 10,982) vs +5.1% for all industries, 2019–2023. Census has no separate code for junk removal.
Licensing and rules
3 / 5Moderate
A box truck of 10,001 lb or more needs a DMV Motor Carrier Permit, and some cities (such as Los Angeles) require a hauler permit (see Licensing).
Customer concentration
1 / 5Many customers
Many households and small businesses with one-off jobs; no single customer carries the business.
Physical demand
5 / 5High
From the guide's at-a-glance rating; see the risks section for details.
Franchise vs. Independent
Same type of business. Two very different paths.
| Franchise (4 brands) | Independent | |
|---|---|---|
| Franchise fee | $35,000 – $97,500Pending verificationSources1-800-GOT-JUNK? 2026 FDD (issued April 30, 2026), Minnesota CARDS(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 30, 2026College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving 2026 FDD (issued April 30, 2026, amended August 26, 2026), Minnesota CARDS(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 30, 2026Junk King 2026 FDD (issued April 1, 2026), Minnesota CARDS(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 30, 2026The Junkluggers 2026 FDD (issued April 30, 2026), Minnesota CARDS(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 30, 2026Last verified October 30, 2026Range across 4 franchise brands. | $0 |
| Initial investment | $96,010 – $359,160Pending verificationSources1-800-GOT-JUNK? 2026 FDD (issued April 30, 2026), Minnesota CARDS(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 30, 2026College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving 2026 FDD (issued April 30, 2026, amended August 26, 2026), Minnesota CARDS(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 30, 2026Junk King 2026 FDD (issued April 1, 2026), Minnesota CARDS(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 30, 2026The Junkluggers 2026 FDD (issued April 30, 2026), Minnesota CARDS(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 30, 2026Last verified October 30, 2026FDD Item 7 estimated initial investment (includes the franchise fee), across 4 brands. | $5,690 – $43,590Pending verificationSourcesStartCosts — junk removal business startup costs(opens in a new tab)Tier 3 · Guide or blog · Accessed October 30, 2026California Secretary of State — LLC (domestic) forms and fees(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 30, 2026Last verified October 30, 2026Computed from 5 startup budget line items: lean plan low to professional plan high. |
| Ongoing royalties | 7% – 8% of revenuePending verificationSources1-800-GOT-JUNK? 2026 FDD (issued April 30, 2026), Minnesota CARDS(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 30, 2026College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving 2026 FDD (issued April 30, 2026, amended August 26, 2026), Minnesota CARDS(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 30, 2026Junk King 2026 FDD (issued April 1, 2026), Minnesota CARDS(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 30, 2026The Junkluggers 2026 FDD (issued April 30, 2026), Minnesota CARDS(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 30, 2026Last verified October 30, 2026Percent of gross revenue, across 4 brands. | None |
| Operating costs (5 years) | $40,555 – $41,755Pending verificationSourcesInsureon — debris removal business insurance cost (updated July 27, 2026)(opens in a new tab)Tier 2 · Industry report · Accessed October 30, 2026California Franchise Tax Board — limited liability company annual tax(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 30, 2026Jobber — pricing(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 30, 2026Last verified October 30, 2026Five years of the operating costs we have sourced so far (insurance, software, fees), charged to both paths. | $40,555 – $41,755 |
| Brand, training, and support | Included | You build your own |
| 5-year total cost | $183,399 – $469,370 | $46,245 – $85,345* |
Franchise fee
- Franchise (4 brands)
- $35,000 – $97,500Pending verificationSources1-800-GOT-JUNK? 2026 FDD (issued April 30, 2026), Minnesota CARDS(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 30, 2026College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving 2026 FDD (issued April 30, 2026, amended August 26, 2026), Minnesota CARDS(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 30, 2026Junk King 2026 FDD (issued April 1, 2026), Minnesota CARDS(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 30, 2026The Junkluggers 2026 FDD (issued April 30, 2026), Minnesota CARDS(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 30, 2026Last verified October 30, 2026Range across 4 franchise brands.
- Independent
- $0
Initial investment
- Franchise (4 brands)
- $96,010 – $359,160Pending verificationSources1-800-GOT-JUNK? 2026 FDD (issued April 30, 2026), Minnesota CARDS(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 30, 2026College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving 2026 FDD (issued April 30, 2026, amended August 26, 2026), Minnesota CARDS(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 30, 2026Junk King 2026 FDD (issued April 1, 2026), Minnesota CARDS(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 30, 2026The Junkluggers 2026 FDD (issued April 30, 2026), Minnesota CARDS(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 30, 2026Last verified October 30, 2026FDD Item 7 estimated initial investment (includes the franchise fee), across 4 brands.
- Independent
- $5,690 – $43,590Pending verificationSourcesStartCosts — junk removal business startup costs(opens in a new tab)Tier 3 · Guide or blog · Accessed October 30, 2026California Secretary of State — LLC (domestic) forms and fees(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 30, 2026Last verified October 30, 2026Computed from 5 startup budget line items: lean plan low to professional plan high.
Ongoing royalties
- Franchise (4 brands)
- 7% – 8% of revenuePending verificationSources1-800-GOT-JUNK? 2026 FDD (issued April 30, 2026), Minnesota CARDS(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 30, 2026College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving 2026 FDD (issued April 30, 2026, amended August 26, 2026), Minnesota CARDS(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 30, 2026Junk King 2026 FDD (issued April 1, 2026), Minnesota CARDS(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 30, 2026The Junkluggers 2026 FDD (issued April 30, 2026), Minnesota CARDS(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 30, 2026Last verified October 30, 2026Percent of gross revenue, across 4 brands.
- Independent
- None
Operating costs (5 years)
- Franchise (4 brands)
- $40,555 – $41,755Pending verificationSourcesInsureon — debris removal business insurance cost (updated July 27, 2026)(opens in a new tab)Tier 2 · Industry report · Accessed October 30, 2026California Franchise Tax Board — limited liability company annual tax(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 30, 2026Jobber — pricing(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 30, 2026Last verified October 30, 2026Five years of the operating costs we have sourced so far (insurance, software, fees), charged to both paths.
- Independent
- $40,555 – $41,755
Brand, training, and support
- Franchise (4 brands)
- Included
- Independent
- You build your own
5-year total cost
- Franchise (4 brands)
- $183,399 – $469,370
- Independent
- $46,245 – $85,345*
5-year totals assume $57,408–$105,456 in yearly revenue (our forecast presets at full volume), the same sourced operating costs (insurance, software, fees) on both paths, and both the lean and professional independent plans. Franchise investment figures come from each brand's disclosure (FDD Item 7) and already include the franchise fee. * Excludes independent startup lines we haven't sourced yet. Adjust the assumptions.
What franchisees report taking in
From each brand's own disclosure (FDD Item 19), copied exactly. These are gross sales before royalties and costs, not profit, and not a promise of what you will earn.
1-800-GOT-JUNK?
Item 19 reports 2025 Gross Revenue for every U.S. franchise, grouped by years open, per franchise and per subterritory, plus revenue bands and system-wide totals. Most owners hold many subterritories, so totals are large.
- Average annual Gross Revenue, 2025, 72 U.S. franchisees (not affiliate-run) open more than 6 years (not profit)$3,700,612 a yearPending verificationSource1-800-GOT-JUNK? 2026 FDD (issued April 30, 2026), Minnesota CARDS(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Last verified October 31, 2026Gross Revenue before royalties and all expenses, not profit. These are whole-business totals: U.S. franchisees own several subterritories each (average 23, median 20). Excludes the 46 franchises run by the franchisor's affiliate, which are reported separately. The FDD says: "Your individual results may differ." 30 of the 72 (42%) reached this average.
- Median annual Gross Revenue, 2025, same 72 U.S. franchisees open more than 6 years (not profit)$2,620,872 a yearPending verificationSource1-800-GOT-JUNK? 2026 FDD (issued April 30, 2026), Minnesota CARDS(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Last verified October 31, 2026Gross Revenue before royalties and all expenses, not profit. These are whole-business totals: U.S. franchisees own several subterritories each (average 23, median 20). Excludes the 46 franchises run by the franchisor's affiliate, which are reported separately. The FDD says: "Your individual results may differ."
- Average annual Gross Revenue, 2025, 3 U.S. franchisees open less than 12 months (not profit)$242,191 a yearPending verificationSource1-800-GOT-JUNK? 2026 FDD (issued April 30, 2026), Minnesota CARDS(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Last verified October 31, 2026Gross Revenue before royalties and all expenses, not profit. These are whole-business totals: U.S. franchisees own several subterritories each (average 23, median 20). Excludes the 46 franchises run by the franchisor's affiliate, which are reported separately. The FDD says: "Your individual results may differ." Only 3 franchisees, each with a partial year.
- Share of all 138 U.S. franchises with 2025 Gross Revenue over $1,000,00081%Pending verificationSource1-800-GOT-JUNK? 2026 FDD (issued April 30, 2026), Minnesota CARDS(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Last verified October 31, 2026112 of 138 U.S. franchises, including the 46 affiliate-run franchises. Gross Revenue, not profit.
College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving
Item 19 reports 2025 Gross Sales, costs and EBITDA for outlets open at least 12 months, grouped by how long they've been open; the figures include moving revenue.
- Average annual Gross Sales, 2025, 119 franchised outlets open 3 years or more (not profit)$1,727,744 a yearPending verificationSourceCollege Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving 2026 FDD (issued April 30, 2026, amended August 26, 2026), Minnesota CARDS(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Last verified October 31, 2026Gross Sales before costs, not profit, and it includes moving as well as junk removal. Covers franchised outlets open at least 12 months that answered the company's survey or use its bookkeeping program (144 franchised outlets; 91% of all outlets open all year). The FDD also lists costs and EBITDA for these groups. The FDD says: "Your individual results may differ." 39 of the 119 (33%) reached this average.
- Median annual Gross Sales, 2025, same 119 franchised outlets open 3 years or more (not profit)$1,276,600 a yearPending verificationSourceCollege Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving 2026 FDD (issued April 30, 2026, amended August 26, 2026), Minnesota CARDS(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Last verified October 31, 2026Gross Sales before costs, not profit, and it includes moving as well as junk removal. Covers franchised outlets open at least 12 months that answered the company's survey or use its bookkeeping program (144 franchised outlets; 91% of all outlets open all year). The FDD also lists costs and EBITDA for these groups. The FDD says: "Your individual results may differ."
- Average annual Gross Sales, 2025, 25 franchised outlets open 1–3 years (not profit)$730,493 a yearPending verificationSourceCollege Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving 2026 FDD (issued April 30, 2026, amended August 26, 2026), Minnesota CARDS(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Last verified October 31, 2026Gross Sales before costs, not profit, and it includes moving as well as junk removal. Covers franchised outlets open at least 12 months that answered the company's survey or use its bookkeeping program (144 franchised outlets; 91% of all outlets open all year). The FDD also lists costs and EBITDA for these groups. The FDD says: "Your individual results may differ." Franchises open 13–36 months own 1 territory on average.
- Median annual Gross Sales, 2025, same 25 franchised outlets open 1–3 years (not profit)$691,222 a yearPending verificationSourceCollege Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving 2026 FDD (issued April 30, 2026, amended August 26, 2026), Minnesota CARDS(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Last verified October 31, 2026Gross Sales before costs, not profit, and it includes moving as well as junk removal. Covers franchised outlets open at least 12 months that answered the company's survey or use its bookkeeping program (144 franchised outlets; 91% of all outlets open all year). The FDD also lists costs and EBITDA for these groups. The FDD says: "Your individual results may differ."
Junk King
Item 19 reports 2025 Gross Sales by quartile for 160 franchises open all year, split into hauling and dumpster revenue, plus average sales per job; 37% reached the average.
- Average annual Gross Sales, 2025, 160 franchises open all year (not profit)$551,635 a yearPending verificationSourceJunk King 2026 FDD (issued April 1, 2026), Minnesota CARDS(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Last verified October 31, 2026Gross Sales (hauling plus any dumpster rental) before royalties and all expenses, not profit. Covers 160 franchises open all of 2025; excludes 11 that had not been open all year and 13 that closed. The FDD says: "Your individual results may differ." 78 of the 160 (37%) reached this average.
- Median annual Gross Sales, 2025, same 160 franchises (not profit)$449,606 a yearPending verificationSourceJunk King 2026 FDD (issued April 1, 2026), Minnesota CARDS(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Last verified October 31, 2026Gross Sales (hauling plus any dumpster rental) before royalties and all expenses, not profit. Covers 160 franchises open all of 2025; excludes 11 that had not been open all year and 13 that closed. The FDD says: "Your individual results may differ."
- Average annual Gross Sales of the top quartile, 2025, 44 franchises (not profit)$1,070,285 a yearPending verificationSourceJunk King 2026 FDD (issued April 1, 2026), Minnesota CARDS(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Last verified October 31, 2026Gross Sales (hauling plus any dumpster rental) before royalties and all expenses, not profit. Covers 160 franchises open all of 2025; excludes 11 that had not been open all year and 13 that closed. The FDD says: "Your individual results may differ."
- Average annual Gross Sales of the bottom quartile, 2025, 32 franchises (not profit)$166,455 a yearPending verificationSourceJunk King 2026 FDD (issued April 1, 2026), Minnesota CARDS(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Last verified October 31, 2026Gross Sales (hauling plus any dumpster rental) before royalties and all expenses, not profit. Covers 160 franchises open all of 2025; excludes 11 that had not been open all year and 13 that closed. The FDD says: "Your individual results may differ." The lowest franchise reported $26,580.
The Junkluggers
Item 19 reports system-wide sales for 2022–2025, 2025 Gross Revenue per franchisee and per territory by quartile, job sizes, the commercial share of revenue, and expense ratios for franchisees who use QuickBooks.
- Average annual Gross Revenue per franchisee, 2025, 63 franchisees open all year (not profit)$733,365 a yearPending verificationSourceThe Junkluggers 2026 FDD (issued April 30, 2026), Minnesota CARDS(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Last verified October 31, 2026Gross Revenue before royalties and all expenses, not profit. Covers 63 franchisees (128 territories) open all of 2025; excludes 7 franchisees that started in 2025, 20 territories added during the year and 5 franchisees that closed. Some franchisees share an owner. The FDD says: "Your individual results may differ." 22 of the 63 (35%) reached this average.
- Median annual Gross Revenue per franchisee, 2025, same 63 franchisees (not profit)$609,012 a yearPending verificationSourceThe Junkluggers 2026 FDD (issued April 30, 2026), Minnesota CARDS(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Last verified October 31, 2026Gross Revenue before royalties and all expenses, not profit. Covers 63 franchisees (128 territories) open all of 2025; excludes 7 franchisees that started in 2025, 20 territories added during the year and 5 franchisees that closed. Some franchisees share an owner. The FDD says: "Your individual results may differ."
- Average annual Gross Revenue per territory, 2025, 128 territories open all year (not profit)$335,754 a yearPending verificationSourceThe Junkluggers 2026 FDD (issued April 30, 2026), Minnesota CARDS(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Last verified October 31, 2026Gross Revenue before royalties and all expenses, not profit. Covers 63 franchisees (128 territories) open all of 2025; excludes 7 franchisees that started in 2025, 20 territories added during the year and 5 franchisees that closed. Some franchisees share an owner. The FDD says: "Your individual results may differ."
What a franchise does give you
Franchises cost more, but the fees buy real things. Weigh them honestly.
- One of the best-known junk removal names in North America
- Central call center and online booking handle incoming jobs
- National account customers referred to franchisees
- Pre-opening marketing run by the franchisor
- Junk removal and moving under one brand, so trucks and crews can do both
- Company sales center books jobs for you
- Training and proprietary scheduling software
- Veteran discount on the franchise fee
- Part of Neighborly, a large group of home service brands
- Customer care center answers calls and schedules estimates
- Junk removal plus dumpster rental as a second service
- Veteran and first-responder discounts on the franchise fee
- Donation and resale focus that appeals to customers who want less sent to landfill
- Remix Market resale of salvaged furniture as a second revenue line
- Call center so customers reach a live person
- Discounts for veterans and diverse owners
Going independent means
- You keep 100% of what you earn after costs — no royalties.
- You build your own brand, systems, and customer base.
- You need more self-reliance, especially in the first year.
Startup Budget
One-time costs to launch, from cited sources. Totals are added up from the lines below.
| Item | Low | Mid | High |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pickup truck plus dump trailer (used)Pending verificationSourceStartCosts — junk removal business startup costs(opens in a new tab)Tier 3 · Guide or blog · Accessed October 30, 2026Last verified October 30, 2026Single tier-3 guide; to be cross-checked against dealer listings or vendor price pages before verification. | $5,000 | $8,500 | $12,000 |
| Equipment and tools (dollies, straps, gloves, hand tools)Pending verificationSourceStartCosts — junk removal business startup costs(opens in a new tab)Tier 3 · Guide or blog · Accessed October 30, 2026Last verified October 30, 2026Single tier-3 guide; to be cross-checked against dealer listings or vendor price pages before verification. | $300 | $900 | $1,500 |
| Legal setup (California LLC filing and first Statement of Information)Pending verificationSourceCalifornia Secretary of State — LLC (domestic) forms and fees(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 30, 2026Last verified October 30, 2026Articles of Organization (LLC-1) $70 plus Statement of Information (LLC-12) $20. City business license fees vary and are not included. | $90 | $90 | $90 |
| Marketing launch (website, truck wrap, ads)Pending verificationSourceStartCosts — junk removal business startup costs(opens in a new tab)Tier 3 · Guide or blog · Accessed October 30, 2026Last verified October 30, 2026Single tier-3 guide; to be cross-checked against dealer listings or vendor price pages before verification. The same guide puts a full truck wrap alone at $2,000–$5,000. | $300 | $1,150 | $2,000 |
| Total | $5,690 | $10,640 | $15,590 |
Share of mid estimate
- Pickup truck plus dump trailer (used)80%
- Equipment and tools (dollies, straps, gloves, hand tools)8%
- Legal setup (California LLC filing and first Statement of Information)1%
- Marketing launch (website, truck wrap, ads)11%
Budget spreadsheet
Every line with its sources, included in the complete kit.
Mid is the halfway point between low and high where a source gives only a range.
AlternativeNew dump trailer, 6 x 10 ft, 10,000 lb (instead of a used one): $7,000 – $7,800Pending verificationSourceBomgaars — Carry-On 10K low-profile tandem axle dump trailer, 6 ft x 10 ft(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 30, 2026Last verified October 30, 2026Bomgaars sale price $6,999.99; regular price $7,799.99 (Carry-On 6X10DUMPLP10K).
An alternative to the used trailer in the line above, not an addition. Prices vary by dealer and date. Not included in the total above.
AlternativeInsurance down payment: Data coming soon
Yearly premiums are listed under operating costs. The amount an insurer wants up front varies, so it is not counted here. Not included in the total above.
24-Month Forecast
An example to plan with. Every assumption is yours to change.
This is an estimate, not a prediction
Ticket is the low end of Thumbtack's typical national range. Jobs per week, ramp-up and the 45% variable cost (helper pay, dump fees, fuel) are assumptions, not operator data. Change any assumption to match your market. Your results will differ.
- Break-even
- Month 10
- Year-1 revenue
- $39,760
- Year-2 profit
- $23,342
Show monthly table
| Month | Jobs | Revenue | Costs | Profit | Cumulative cash |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 (Mar) | 8.2 | $1,136 | $1,197 | -$61 | -$10,701 |
| 2 (Apr) | 13.1 | $1,809 | $1,500 | $309 | -$10,392 |
| 3 (May) | 18.2 | $2,512 | $1,816 | $695 | -$9,697 |
| 4 (Jun) | 22.1 | $3,050 | $2,058 | $991 | -$8,705 |
| 5 (Jul) | 24.9 | $3,439 | $2,233 | $1,205 | -$7,500 |
| 6 (Aug) | 27.4 | $3,782 | $2,388 | $1,394 | -$6,106 |
| 7 (Sep) | 28.2 | $3,887 | $2,435 | $1,452 | -$4,654 |
| 8 (Oct) | 29.8 | $4,119 | $2,539 | $1,579 | -$3,075 |
| 9 (Nov) | 31.2 | $4,306 | $2,624 | $1,682 | -$1,393 |
| 10 (Dec) | 34.7 | $4,784 | $2,839 | $1,945 | $552 |
| 11 (Jan) | 24.3 | $3,349 | $2,193 | $1,156 | $1,708 |
| 12 (Feb) | 26.0 | $3,588 | $2,301 | $1,287 | $2,996 |
| 13 (Mar) | 32.9 | $4,545 | $2,731 | $1,814 | $4,809 |
| 14 (Apr) | 38.1 | $5,262 | $3,054 | $2,208 | $7,018 |
| 15 (May) | 41.6 | $5,741 | $3,269 | $2,471 | $9,489 |
| 16 (Jun) | 41.6 | $5,741 | $3,269 | $2,471 | $11,961 |
| 17 (Jul) | 39.9 | $5,502 | $3,162 | $2,340 | $14,300 |
| 18 (Aug) | 38.1 | $5,262 | $3,054 | $2,208 | $16,509 |
| 19 (Sep) | 34.7 | $4,784 | $2,839 | $1,945 | $18,454 |
| 20 (Oct) | 32.9 | $4,545 | $2,731 | $1,814 | $20,268 |
| 21 (Nov) | 31.2 | $4,306 | $2,624 | $1,682 | $21,950 |
| 22 (Dec) | 34.7 | $4,784 | $2,839 | $1,945 | $23,895 |
| 23 (Jan) | 24.3 | $3,349 | $2,193 | $1,156 | $25,051 |
| 24 (Feb) | 26.0 | $3,588 | $2,301 | $1,287 | $26,338 |
Pricing
What customers typically pay, from large-sample cost data.
What customers pay
- Typical junk removal job (national range)$138 – $308Pending verificationSourceThumbtack — junk removal costs (updated October 13, 2026)(opens in a new tab)Tier 2 · Industry report · Accessed October 30, 2026Last verified October 30, 2026Thumbtack reports a low of $80 and a high of $599. No published sample size.
- Half a pickup truck load$97 – $201Pending verificationSourceThumbtack — junk removal costs (updated October 13, 2026)(opens in a new tab)Tier 2 · Industry report · Accessed October 30, 2026Last verified October 30, 2026No published sample size.
- One full pickup truck load$132 – $273Pending verificationSourceThumbtack — junk removal costs (updated October 13, 2026)(opens in a new tab)Tier 2 · Industry report · Accessed October 30, 2026Last verified October 30, 2026No published sample size.
- Two pickup truck loads$190 – $393Pending verificationSourceThumbtack — junk removal costs (updated October 13, 2026)(opens in a new tab)Tier 2 · Industry report · Accessed October 30, 2026Last verified October 30, 2026No published sample size.
- Furniture, appliances and electronics (national average)$169Pending verificationSourceThumbtack — junk removal costs (updated October 13, 2026)(opens in a new tab)Tier 2 · Industry report · Accessed October 30, 2026Last verified October 30, 2026No published sample size.
- Typical job in Los Angeles$149 – $460Pending verificationSourceThumbtack — junk removal costs (updated October 13, 2026)(opens in a new tab)Tier 2 · Industry report · Accessed October 30, 2026Last verified October 30, 2026No published sample size.
What similar businesses take in
Context only, not a promise of what you will earn. Government figures cover every business in the industry; guide figures are rougher. Tap the source icon to see which is which. These are revenue, before costs.
- Average receipts per employer firm with fewer than 5 employees, NAICS 562111 (Solid Waste Collection, which includes local rubbish hauling), 2022$505,894 a yearPending verificationSourceU.S. Census Bureau — 2022 Statistics of U.S. Businesses, U.S. & states by 6-digit NAICS (released April 10, 2025)(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Last verified October 31, 2026Employer firms: 3,340 firms, $1,689,687,000 total receipts. Includes garbage and recycling collectors, not only junk removal. We divided the table's total receipts by its count of businesses and rounded to the nearest dollar. It is an average of gross receipts, before any expenses, and many businesses take in far less. Shown for context only — not a promise or prediction of your results.
- Average receipts per employer firm with fewer than 5 employees, NAICS 562119 (Other Waste Collection, which includes debris removal), 2022$399,477 a yearPending verificationSourceU.S. Census Bureau — 2022 Statistics of U.S. Businesses, U.S. & states by 6-digit NAICS (released April 10, 2025)(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Last verified October 31, 2026Employer firms: 912 firms, $364,323,000 total receipts. We divided the table's total receipts by its count of businesses and rounded to the nearest dollar. It is an average of gross receipts, before any expenses, and many businesses take in far less. Shown for context only — not a promise or prediction of your results.
- Average receipts per nonemployer (solo, no employees) business, NAICS 562 (all Waste Management and Remediation Services), 2023$92,552 a yearPending verificationSourceU.S. Census Bureau — 2023 Nonemployer Statistics, United States file(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Last verified October 31, 2026Nonemployer businesses: 25,787 businesses, $2,386,634,000 total receipts. The Census Bureau doesn't publish a finer category for solo haulers, so this covers the whole waste sector. We divided the table's total receipts by its count of businesses and rounded to the nearest dollar. It is an average of gross receipts, before any expenses, and many businesses take in far less. Shown for context only — not a promise or prediction of your results.
Key Risks and How to Manage Them
Heavy lifting every day
Couches, appliances and mattresses are two-person lifts, often up and down stairs. Doing this all day, every day, is hard on the back and knees at any age and a real injury risk after 55.
How to manage it: Plan from the start to run the business as a manager with at least one helper per truck. Use dollies, straps and proper lifting technique, and keep your own time for estimates, sales and scheduling.
Finding and keeping helpers
The business depends on a crew. Turnover is common in hauling jobs, and a missing helper can mean a cancelled day.
How to manage it: Pay at or above local rates, keep a short list of backup helpers, and budget for workers' compensation and payroll costs before you hire.
Dump fees eat into each job
Every load costs money to dispose of, and fees rise each year at many landfills. Heavy loads such as concrete or roofing cost more than furniture.
How to manage it: Know the fee schedule at your nearest landfill or transfer station, price by volume and weight, and donate or recycle what you can to reduce what you pay to dump.
Vehicle costs and breakdowns
The truck or trailer is the biggest purchase and the main point of failure. Repairs, fuel and commercial insurance add up.
How to manage it: Have any used vehicle inspected before buying, keep a repair reserve, and line up a rental option for days your truck is in the shop.
City hauling rules
Some cities require permits for haulers or limit which customers private haulers can serve. In the City of Los Angeles, permitted haulers pay a fee equal to 10% of gross receipts.
How to manage it: Check the rules in each city you plan to serve before you quote jobs there, and build any city fee into your prices.
Items you cannot legally dump
Paint, chemicals, batteries, electronics and some appliances need special handling and cannot go in a regular landfill load.
How to manage it: Learn your county's rules for hazardous and universal waste, and tell customers up front which items you will not take.
Low barriers mean many competitors
Anyone with a pickup can advertise junk hauling, and national franchises spend heavily on advertising.
How to manage it: Compete on showing up on time, clear upfront pricing, insurance, and donating usable items rather than on being the cheapest.
Licensing by State
Requirements vary by state and local jurisdiction.
More states are coming.
A general guide only. Rules change and vary by city and county — confirm with your local government before you start.
No state license to haul your customers' junk
Pending verificationCalifornia does not issue a state license for junk removal. You still need the usual business registration, and your city and county rules apply.
City or county business license
Pending verificationRequired almost everywhere in California. Check with the city where your business is based.
City of Los Angeles: AB 939 hauler permit
Pending verificationPending verificationSourceLA Sanitation & Environment — Waste Hauler Compliance Program(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 30, 2026Last verified October 30, 2026Private solid waste haulers working inside the City of Los Angeles must hold an AB 939 Compliance Permit, pay a fee equal to 10% of gross receipts, and file quarterly tonnage and financial reports. Construction and demolition waste must go to city-certified facilities. Other cities have their own hauler rules and franchise agreements, so check each city you serve.
Verify with the LA Sanitation & Environment(opens in a new tab)Motor Carrier Permit for heavier trucks
Pending verificationPending verificationSourceCalifornia DMV — Motor Carrier Permits(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 30, 2026Last verified October 30, 2026The DMV says anyone operating a commercial vehicle with a gross vehicle weight rating of 10,001 pounds or more generally needs a Motor Carrier Permit. A box truck usually crosses that line; check your truck, and any truck-and-trailer combination, before you buy.
Verify with the California DMV — Motor Carrier Permits(opens in a new tab)Commercial auto insurance
Pending verificationPending verificationSourceInsureon — debris removal business insurance cost (updated July 27, 2026)(opens in a new tab)Tier 2 · Industry report · Accessed October 30, 2026Last verified October 30, 2026A personal auto policy usually does not cover a vehicle used for business. Get a commercial auto policy that covers the truck and any trailer you tow.
Employer registration and workers' compensation
Pending verificationOnce you hire a helper, California requires you to register as an employer, pay at least the state or local minimum wage, and carry workers' compensation insurance.
Verify with the California Department of Industrial Relations(opens in a new tab)
The Playbook
A step-by-step guide from setup to growth.
Phase 1
Setup
- Decide to run it as a manager with a helper
- Choose your business structure
- Buy a truck and trailer that fit your plan
- Get commercial auto and liability insurance
- Check city hauling permits and your nearest dump fees
Phase 2
Launch
Included in the complete kit
Phase 3
Pricing and disposal
Included in the complete kit
Phase 4
Marketing
Included in the complete kit
Phase 5
Hiring your crew
Included in the complete kit
Phase 6
Operations
Included in the complete kit
Phase 7
Growth
Included in the complete kit
Suppliers and Tools
Vendors independent operators use.
No supplier pays to be listed. If we ever earn a referral fee from a link, it will say “Affiliate link” right next to it.
Dump trailers
Trailer makers with dealer networks; check local dealers for current prices.
Scheduling and invoicing software
Booking, quoting, crew scheduling and payments.
The Kit Is Coming
Everything on this page is free. The downloadable kit (playbook, spreadsheets, templates) is in the works.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a franchise?
No. The Open Franchise is not a franchise and does not sell franchises. You start and own your business yourself, with no franchise fee, royalties, or territory rules. We sell guides and kits; that's all.
Can I do this by myself at 55 or 60?
We don't recommend it. Most jobs involve two-person lifts, and doing them all day is hard on anyone's body. The plan on this page assumes you hire at least one helper from the start and spend more of your own time on estimates, sales and scheduling.
Do I need a special license in California?
There is no state license for hauling your customers' junk, but cities can regulate haulers. The City of Los Angeles, for example, requires a hauler permit and a fee on gross receipts. A heavier truck may also need a DMV Motor Carrier Permit.
Are these numbers guaranteed?
No. Every cost and price is an estimate from a cited source, shown as a range where possible, with the date we last checked it. Your costs and results will depend on your market and choices.
Figures last verified October 30, 2026. Every number links to its source. See all sources for this page.