Donate, recycle or haul it away? A simple guide
Before you pay to haul something, it is worth a few minutes to see if it can go to someone who can use it. Here is a quick way to decide.
Good candidates for donating
- Clean, working furniture without major damage
- Working appliances
- Clothing, shoes and household goods in good shape
- Tools, building materials and unused supplies
Many donation organizations are selective, and some offer pickup while others do not. Call ahead and ask what they accept, since policies change.
Things to sell instead
Collectibles, solid wood furniture, quality tools and newer electronics may be worth listing online or including in an estate sale. Decide quickly, because waiting costs you time and space.
Recycle when you can
- Scrap metal
- Cardboard and paper
- Some electronics and batteries, at proper drop-off sites
Your city's website lists what is accepted locally.
Haul it away when
- It is broken, stained, moldy or unsafe to give to someone else
- It is old, bulky or heavy, like mattresses, sleeper sofas or hot tubs
- You are short on time, have a closing or move-out date, or need the space now
- There is simply too much of it to sort
A practical way to sort
- Pull out anything worth keeping or selling.
- Set aside the donate pile and call to confirm pickup or drop-off.
- Haul away the rest in one visit.
If the job is too big to sort, we can take it all. See our services, or call or text for a quote.
Last updated October 2026. This guide is general information and is not legal, financial or insurance advice.
Common questions
Do you donate the items you pick up?
Ask us when you call. Tell us what you want donated, and we will tell you what we can arrange.
Do I have to sort everything first?
No. You can point out what to take, and we will do the lifting.
Can you haul items that charities will not take?
Yes, as long as they are not hazardous items.