Clearout Chicago / What to include in a junk removal request.
A simple guide for better pickup requests

What to include in a junk removal request.

The fastest way to get a useful response is to include the details a provider actually needs. This guide explains what to include before submitting a furniture, mattress, cleanout, or bulky-item pickup request.

Built for Chicago apartments, alleys, walk-ups, and move-outs.

The five details that matter most.

These are the details providers usually need before they can estimate the job.

1. Item list

Name the main items: couch, mattress, dresser, bags, boxes, appliance, debris, or mixed cleanout.

2. Rough amount

One item, a few items, half room, full room, small pile, large pile, or full apartment.

3. Pickup location

Inside, curbside, alley, basement, storage unit, garage, elevator building, or stairs involved.

Access and timing details.

These details can affect pricing, scheduling, and whether the pickup is realistic.

Building access

Mention walk-up floors, elevator access, freight elevators, loading zones, parking restrictions, and building rules.

Timing

Today, tomorrow, this week, weekend preferred, before move-out, or flexible.

Photos

Optional, but helpful for big piles, sectionals, appliances, debris, or anything hard to describe.

Copy/paste request checklist

What needs to go?
How many items or how big is the pile?
Where are the items located?
Are stairs, elevators, alleys, basements, or storage rooms involved?
When do you need it gone?
Is there anything unusual, heavy, fragile, or possibly restricted?
Can you add a photo?

What not to include.

Do not submit sensitive personal documents, financial information, IDs, medical information, photos of people, or details unrelated to the pickup. Keep it focused on the items, access, and timing.

Junk removal request FAQ.

Short answers for cleaner requests.

Do I need an exact item count?

No. A rough estimate is fine, especially with a photo.

Should I include my full address?

For now, a ZIP or neighborhood is enough through Clearout Chicago. A provider can confirm exact details directly if needed.

Should I mention hazardous materials?

Yes, and do not submit anything unsafe or restricted. Hazardous materials may not be a fit.

Why does the form ask about stairs/elevators?

Access can change the time, labor, and pricing for a pickup.

Ready to request pickup help?

Use the main Clearout Chicago form to submit the details once. We’ll route the request to one local provider who may be able to help.