What haulers will not take

Junk removal companies take almost anything two people can carry. The exceptions come from what the disposal site will accept, and a hauler who takes a refused item is usually breaking the rules at the landfill gate.

Commonly refused

• Paint, solvents, pesticides and pool chemicals. Liquid hazardous waste cannot go in a landfill.
• Asbestos and medical waste. Both need licensed handlers.
• Fuel, propane cylinders and gas-powered equipment with fuel in the tank. Drain the fuel and many haulers will take the equipment.
• Car batteries and large quantities of batteries. Auto parts stores take car batteries, often for a credit.
• Tires. Some haulers take them for a per-tire fee; many do not.
• Ammunition, fireworks and firearms. Contact your local police department for disposal.

Sometimes refused, often with a fee

• Mattresses and box springs (several states charge a recycling fee).
• Refrigerators, freezers and air conditioners (refrigerant has to be recovered first).
• Televisions and CRT monitors (leaded glass).
• Pianos, hot tubs and safes (weight and two-crew jobs).

Where to take refused items

Every county in the United States runs or contracts a household hazardous waste program. Most accept paint, chemicals, batteries, fluorescent bulbs and electronics free of charge from residents, either at a permanent site or on scheduled collection days. Search your county name plus "household hazardous waste". Paint stores in states with PaintCare programs take leftover paint at no cost.

Before the crew arrives

Pull refused items out of the pile and set them aside. A crew that finds a can of pesticide at the bottom of a load has to stop, and the stop costs you time on the clock.