Complete Guide to Garbage Removal Services in Toronto

Garbage removal is an essential service for maintaining cleanliness and hygiene in any city, and Toronto is no exception. Whether you’re a homeowner looking to clean up your space or a business in need of regular waste disposal, understanding how garbage removal services work, the associated costs, and the best ways to handle excess garbage can save you time and money. In this post, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about garbage removal services in Toronto.

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How Much Does Junk Removal Cost in Toronto?

Junk removal Services in Toronto can vary based on several factors, including the amount of junk, the type of items, and the service provider. On average, you can expect to pay anywhere between $100 and $800 for junk removal services in the city. The cost depends on:

Size of the load: The more junk you have, the higher the cost will be. Companies typically charge based on the volume of the junk, measured in cubic yards. For example, removing a small load of junk (1-2 cubic yards) may cost around $100, while a larger load (10 cubic yards or more) may cost upwards of $500.
Type of junk: The type of junk you’re removing also plays a significant role in determining the cost. Household items like old furniture, electronics, and appliances tend to be less expensive to remove compared to hazardous materials like chemicals or construction debris.
Location: Junk removal services in downtown Toronto may cost more than those in suburban areas due to transportation and logistical factors.
Additional services: Some companies may offer extra services like packing, sorting, or eco-friendly disposal, which can increase the price.

While junk removal can be expensive, it’s important to compare prices from different providers to find the best deal.

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Do You Pay for Garbage Removal in Toronto?

In Toronto, garbage removal is primarily managed by the city’s waste collection program, but residents are required to pay for the service. The cost for regular garbage pickup is typically included in property taxes or in a separate waste management fee. These fees may vary based on the type of dwelling (single-family homes, apartments, or commercial buildings).

However, junk removal services are different from regular garbage collection. Junk removal services are typically an additional expense, especially for large, bulky, or non-standard waste that doesn’t fit into regular city-provided bins.

How Much Is a Garbage Collector in Toronto?

Garbage collectors in Toronto are employees of the city’s waste management department or contracted private companies. If you’re asking about how much the city pays for garbage collection, the average salary for a garbage collector in Toronto ranges from $45,000 to $60,000 per year, depending on experience and seniority.

For homeowners or businesses, however, the cost of garbage collection services is usually part of municipal taxes or waste management fees, which are billed annually. This is an essential service that covers curbside pickup for regular household waste and recycling.

How Do I Get Rid of Extra Garbage in Toronto?

Toronto provides several ways to manage excess garbage beyond regular curbside pickup. If you’re dealing with large amounts of waste, here are some options:

Extra Waste Bags and Bins: Toronto residents can place additional waste bags beside their regular garbage bin on collection days. However, there are strict guidelines on what you can leave, including the size and weight of the bags. Extra bags should be within 15kg (33 lbs) to be collected.
Large Item Pickup: For bulky items such as furniture or appliances that do not fit in regular bins, the city offers a Large Item Pickup service. You must schedule a pickup in advance, and the items must meet certain criteria, such as weight and size restrictions.
Community Drop-Off Depots: Toronto operates several community drop-off depots where residents can dispose of excess items, including household waste, electronics, and recyclables. You can find the nearest depot on the city’s website.
Junk Removal Services: For those with a significant amount of junk or items that can’t be disposed of through regular city services, hiring a junk removal service is an ideal option. These companies can handle everything from furniture to old appliances and construction debris.

What to Do with Excess Garbage in Toronto?

Excess garbage can be tricky, especially when it doesn’t fit in your curbside bin. Here’s what you can do:

Request a Bulk Item Pickup: As mentioned earlier, large items like furniture, appliances, and mattresses can be picked up by the city’s waste management service with prior scheduling.
Donate Unwanted Items: If the items you want to get rid of are in good condition, consider donating them to local charities. Many organizations in Toronto, like Goodwill and The Salvation Army, accept gently used furniture, clothes, and electronics.
Recycling Programs: Toronto has extensive recycling programs for paper, glass, metal, and plastic waste. Make sure to separate recyclables from regular garbage to reduce landfill waste.
Hire a Junk Removal Company: If you have excessive garbage that the city won’t take, or you need quick removal, hiring a professional junk removal company is a convenient solution.

Can I Leave Extra Cardboard Next to the Bin?

Cardboard is accepted for recycling in Toronto, but it must be properly prepared. If you have extra cardboard that won’t fit in your regular recycling bin, you can leave it next to the bin as long as it is flattened. Cardboard should be neatly stacked and tied with string, or placed in a cardboard box, to ensure it can be easily collected. Make sure that the cardboard is free from food waste or other contaminants.

How Do I Dispose of Large Items in Toronto?

To dispose of large items in Toronto, you have several options:

Large Item Pickup: This is a free service for eligible large items like furniture and appliances. You must schedule a pickup through the city’s website or by calling their service line.
Hire a Junk Removal Service: For larger amounts of junk or specialized items, hiring a junk removal company might be the best choice. These companies will come to your location, remove the items, and ensure they are disposed of properly. This can be more convenient and faster than waiting for a scheduled city pickup.
Community Depots: Toronto’s waste management program offers community depots for large item drop-offs. These depots accept a range of items, including electronics and furniture.
Recycling: Certain large items, like old electronics, can be taken to recycling centers. Be sure to check if the items you’re discarding are recyclable or if there are specific guidelines for their disposal.

What Is the Minimum Price for Junk Removal?

The minimum price for junk removal in Toronto generally starts at around $100 for small loads, like a few pieces of furniture or some household items. For larger loads, the price increases, often depending on the size of the truck or bin required. Some companies have a minimum charge that could range from $100 to $150, even if you only have a small amount of junk.

What Is the Cheapest Way to Get Rid of Junk for Free?

If you’re looking for ways to get rid of junk without spending a penny, here are a few options:

Donate or Sell: If the items are in good condition, you could donate them to a charity or sell them through online platforms like Kijiji or Facebook Marketplace.
Free Community Events: Occasionally, Toronto hosts free recycling and giveaway events where residents can drop off or pick up items for free.
Giveaway on Social Media: Posting your unwanted items on local community groups or apps like Facebook Marketplace can be a free and easy way to get rid of them.
Bulk Waste Pickup: Some waste management companies offer free pickups for certain types of bulk items, so check with your local provider for any available offers.

What Is the Minimum Charge for Got Junk?

Got Junk is one of the most popular junk removal services in Toronto. The minimum charge for Got Junk services generally starts around $150 to $200 for smaller loads. The cost increases based on the amount of junk and the type of items being removed. Got Junk offers eco-friendly disposal, which means they will recycle or donate items whenever possible.

Conclusion

Garbage removal in Toronto is straightforward, but it’s essential to understand the available options and their associated costs. Whether you’re dealing with excess household waste, large items, or construction debris, understanding how to handle your junk can save you time and money. Remember to take advantage of Toronto’s public services, such as bulk item pickup and community drop-off depots, or consider hiring a junk removal company for more extensive needs.