Junk Hauling - How much can I expect to make?

[New]

Hi guys,
I'm thinking of starting a junk hauling business. I know there's a lot of good info out there on how to start it, etc.
But I want to know.. realistically, how much can I expect to make with an 8' bed pick up truck? I will build up the side panels of the truck to be able to haul more.

Thanks!

[Overhemd]

I really have no idea how much one can stand to make in this business venture. You have big companies out there like 1800gotjunk that I am sure started like you are trying to do. You really need to find a niche that sets you apart from the competition.

Starting a new business is often an exciting and thrilling adventure, but without proper planning, a new hauling business can easily end up in the dumps. Consider this before launching your junk removal business. This really goes for any start up...but good things to think about.

1. Writing a junk removal business plan
2. Choosing the right legal structure for your junk removal business
3. Equipment needed for your junk removal business
4. What to do with the Junk you collect and where to dispose of it properly
5. Naming your junk hauling business & domain name selection
6. Setting up a junk removal website that converts visitors into customers
7. Creating a marketing plan your junk removal business
8. Measuring your marketing tactics
9. Managing junk haulers and multiple trucks
10. Online tools that make it easier to manage your customers

[New]

Dear overhemd,
Thank you for you input, and I don't mean to offend you, but I already know all of these steps and more.. I've been running another business for a while now.

My question was directed more to people already in the business of hauling junk so they can give me an idea as to how much to expect to make.. just a range/ball park.

Thank you,

[Overhemd]

Dear overhemd,
Thank you for you input, and I don't mean to offend you, but I already know all of these steps and more.. I've been running another business for a while now.

My question was directed more to people already in the business of hauling junk so they can give me an idea as to how much to expect to make.. just a range/ball park.

Thank you,

No offence taken...

Best of luck with your venture and sorry I couldn't be more help.

[ChrisAplin]

I can't imagine that they would make too much unless you streamlined and expanded.

There's plenty of businesses that make just enough to keep the business going. This would probably be one of them. There's no specialty (point a-b), you're competing with literally anyone who has a truck and willingness to do it and some free time.

Now specialty junk. High risk, chemical, I don't know, something not everyone can do.

[lalu06]

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[New]

Thanks ChrisAplin
Believe it or not, not everyone is willing to do it.. you wouldn't believe that amount of white-collar yuppies who only own sedans and hybrids, or trucks but are not willing to get their hands dirty. Especially if they're making over $80k at work, they figure they rather pay somebody to get rid of their junk.

On the other hand, it's not that simple. I'm planning on making it a legit business, with insurance and permits, not just someone with a pick up truck.. There are rules, regulations, etc to follow in order to disposed/recycle properly.
I'm also going to try to target commercial areas, such as real estate companies that need to get rid of the junk from a foreclosed property or for staging..

There are a lot of different areas you can target and actually make a living out of it. I'm not looking to get rich or make $50k a year.. I'm just looking to be able to pay my bills.

Thanks for the input though..

...still waiting to hear from someone that is actually doing it as a legit business.

[chase24]

New,
I was actually directed to this thread searching for similar information, however I do have some information you may find useful, as my families business involves scrapping metal as well as providing containers for recyclying or just loading unwanted junk.

I wasn't sure from your responses if you intend to only remove and dispose of junk or if your trying to recycle scrap metal. I understand your plan is to start at a smaller scale, but i would recommend you keep an eye out for any reasonable amount of precious metals that you come in contact with because with a little luck you'll easily produce more revenue than junk disposal alone. Good call on the real estate and property contacts that's an excellent way to get tips on forclosures but be prepared to see many already have deals done with larger container companies.

What are your plans? Perhaps I can offer an idea or two.

[R.J.R]

hi, when i started in 2004 as a hobby with a 1985 ford ranger and i ended up liking the trade so by 2005 i did it as a legit business with a chevy silverado 8' bed with side walls..all the advertising i was doing was from craigslist..we have several landfill in my area and i looked for the cheapest one ($67 per ton) the highest in my area is $115 per ton i never been there...i was charging between $150 to $200 per pickup load and it was costing me around $40 to $60 to dump..averaging around $110 -$150 profit ( minus a few bucks for gas) i was able to pickup a load and dump the load at the landfill in about 2 hours...i was doing about 3 to 6 jobs per week only from craigslist and where ever i saw junk in a property i would stop and told them that i can haul that junk away for a reasonable price
by 2010 i bought my first chevy dump truck bed size is ( 12 feet long, 8 feet wide, and 5 feet 10 inches tall) and for a full load i charge between $295 to $395 and it cost me around $70 to dump doing around 9 dumps per week (sometimes less)...i am not a huge company or make tons of money but from what i started ( with a 1985 ranger to a heavy duty chevy dump truck) is not so bad without any help or extra income
now in 2012 i have my wife and my 3 daughters involve and is the only source of income

i hope this help but every ones profits and income is different
if anything else let me know