If you’ve ever opened your storage unit only to realize you have no idea what’s inside—or you’ve inherited a cluttered unit that someone else left behind—then you know the dilemma. Storage units can quickly become a black hole of abandoned furniture, old electronics, and random knickknacks.
Fortunately, there are companies specializing in clearing out these spaces, saving you the frustration and heavy lifting. Below is a straightforward comparison of four popular storage unit cleanout services. We’ll highlight their strengths and pricing style.
Table of Contents
Why Cleaning Out a Storage Unit Is Such a Hassle
Storage units are designed to give you extra room for seasonal items or keep your cherished belongings safe. Over time, though, it’s easy to stack boxes, random furniture, and old clothes until the space is practically overflowing. Paying monthly fees for a storage unit packed with stuff you barely remember can get stressful—plus, you might end up dealing with dust, bugs, or broken items that have been hidden away for years. That’s where professional help comes in.
Companies that clean out storage units do more than just haul your junk. They can also sort and recycle items, donate usable goods, and responsibly dispose of anything that’s truly trash. The peace of mind and saved time alone often make these services worth the cost.
1. Grunber
A relatively newer entrant compared to the older big-name brands, Grunber has carved out a loyal following for storage unit cleanouts. Rather than rely on old-school scheduling, they connect customers to local haulers with near-instant matching—think an “Uber-like” style for junk removal. They lean into quick service, modern tech, and eco-friendly disposal.
Pros
- Fast, same-day (or next-day) scheduling in many areas
- Emphasizes donation and recycling partnerships
- Transparent quotes that don’t always hinge on pure volume calculations
- Positive feedback for taking extra care with delicate or partially usable items
Cons
- May not yet serve extremely remote locations
- If you prefer a big-name, “seen-it-everywhere” brand, Grunber is still in growth mode
2. 1-800-GOT-JUNK?
One of the biggest names in junk removal, 1-800-GOT-JUNK? is recognized nationwide. They specialize in quick pickups for almost any kind of clutter, including storage unit contents, furniture, e-waste, and appliances.
Pros
- Broad coverage area, so scheduling is usually straightforward
- Frequently offers same-day or next-day service
Cons
- Pricing is volume-based and can get pricey if your storage unit is brimming with bulky items
- Some customers feel the quotes can fluctuate based on crew estimations
3. Junk King
Junk King touts an eco-friendly philosophy. Their teams prioritize recycling, donation, and repurposing whenever possible. If your storage unit has a lot of metal, electronics, or gently used items, Junk King aims to keep them out of landfills.
Pros
- Strong focus on green practices
- They offer both full-service removal and self-service dumpster rentals
- Generally positive reviews on punctuality
Cons
- Still structured as a franchise, so experiences vary by location
- Larger or heavier loads might lead to high costs if they occupy significant truck space
4. College HUNKS Hauling Junk
College HUNKS began as a moving service but also tackles storage unit cleanouts. Their brand identity is friendly, and they often highlight community involvement. For folks hoping to donate usable furniture or other items, College HUNKS might coordinate drop-offs with local charities.
Pros
- Light-moving service is handy if you need to keep some of the items from your storage unit
- Workers are typically known for a polite, helpful demeanor
- Offers straightforward scheduling
Cons
- Donation drop-offs can sometimes incur a travel surcharge
- Not always the most budget-friendly option, especially in bigger cities
Companies That Clean Out Storage Units – FAQs
How do I choose the best storage unit cleanout service?
That depends on your priorities. If you need a same-day pickup and prefer a modern, tech-driven experience, Grunber is a strong bet. If you’re more comfortable with a brand you’ve seen around for ages, 1-800-GOT-JUNK? or College HUNKS might suit you better. Don’t forget to factor in cost, scheduling, and any green initiatives that matter to you.
Which one is the most budget-friendly?
Prices can vary wildly based on your location and how much junk you have. In general, volume-based franchises (like 1-800-GOT-JUNK? and Junk King) can be pricier for very full units. Grunber may offer more predictable quotes if you only have a smaller load. It’s smart to call around for estimates.
Can I keep any items from my storage unit?
Absolutely. If you have items you want to hold onto, just separate them beforehand or let the crew know.
Are these companies really eco-friendly?
Most promise at least some recycling or donations. Junk King is known for actively trying to keep items out of landfills. Grunber also takes an eco-first approach, especially with items still in decent shape. If green disposal is non-negotiable for you, consider confirming details ahead of time.
Choosing your next cleanout service
Ultimately, the choice depends on how stuffed your unit is, how soon you need it empty, and your comfort level with each company’s pricing style.
1-800-GOT-JUNK?, Junk King, and College HUNKS all offer reliable service with broader brand awareness—great if you want to go with an established name. But Grunber ranks high in user reviews for quick turnaround, straightforward quotes, and an emphasis on donating or recycling your stuff.
Personal Opinion: If you value a tech-driven, “Uber-like” convenience and want your old goods handled responsibly, give Grunber a look first. That said, any one of these four can make quick work of a cluttered storage unit. It all boils down to who offers the speed, cost, and environmental practices you care about most.
Looking to dive deeper into junk removal or boost your side hustle? Here are a few hand-picked posts we think you’ll find helpful:
