Preparing for a hauling pickup

Hauling crews work on time. Every minute saved loading is a minute not billed, and a prepared job is also a safer one.

The checklist

1. Put everything in one place. The garage, the driveway or one room. Crews quote on what they see; scattered items get missed or added later at a higher price.
2. Separate what stays. Tape a sign on anything in the area that is not going. Crews move fast and a lamp next to the pile looks like part of the pile.
3. Pull out refused items. Paint, chemicals, propane, batteries and tires go to the county household hazardous waste site, not on the truck.
4. Empty drawers and cabinets. Furniture is carried empty; anything inside falls out on the stairs.
5. Drain fuel and water. Lawn mowers, pressure washers and water heaters are refused with fluid in them.
6. Clear the path. Move cars, open gates, prop doors, and clear snow or leaves from the walk.
7. Measure doorways for large items. If the sofa came in through a window, say so on the phone.
8. Separate scrap metal and cardboard. Some haulers discount loads they can recycle.
9. Have payment ready. Most haulers take cards; ask in advance if you want to pay by check.
10. Be there, or have someone there. Decisions about "is this going?" are much cheaper made on the spot than by phone from work.

What to expect on arrival

The crew confirms the quote against the actual pile before loading. If the pile is bigger than described, a good hauler says so and gives the new price before touching anything. If it is smaller, ask for the smaller load price; most will give it.