Local ResourcesFebruary 9, 2025• 7 min read
By Nick Molinaro, Founder, 67 Junk
Junk Removal in Chicago: Costs, Tips & Local Resources (2025)
Chicago's long winters and dense urban neighborhoods create unique junk removal challenges. From alley pickups to navigating narrow back porches, here's your guide to getting rid of junk in the Windy City.
Chicago Bulk Pickup
City of Chicago Bulk Trash Service:
- Schedule: Call 311 or visit chicago.gov/dss
- Cost: Free for Chicago residents
- How it works: Place items in the alley on your regular garbage day
- Large items: Call 311 for items that won't fit in the alley bin
Chicago-Area Disposal Sites
- Chicago Transfer Station (Goose Island): 1150 N North Branch St
- Land and Lakes Landfill: 119th St, SE Side - Cook County residents
- Self-haul: $25-$45 per load depending on volume and material
Cook County charges a per-ton fee at transfer stations. Bring ID for resident rates.
Junk Removal Costs in Chicago
- Single item: $80 - $150
- Half truck load: $250 - $400
- Full truck load: $400 - $650
- Garage cleanout: $300 - $800
Chicago prices are 10-15% above the national average. Access difficulty (stairs, narrow alleys) can add to the cost.
Winter Junk Removal Tips
Chicago's brutal winters (November-March) affect junk removal scheduling:
- Items frozen to the ground may require extra labor - clear ice and snow around items
- Book removals on warmer days when possible
- Indoor staging (garage or basement) makes winter pickups easier
- Spring is peak season - book early for March-May cleanouts
Where to Donate in Chicago
- Habitat ReStore Chicago: 1640 S Blue Island Ave - furniture, building materials
- Brown Elephant Resale: Multiple locations benefiting Howard Brown Health
- Salvation Army Chicagoland: Free pickup at satruck.org
- AMVETS: Clothing and household items pickup available
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