Step-by-step
A practical plan for the job.
- 1
Choose the pickup location before moving anything
Send a photo showing the proposed staging spot and the route from legal truck parking. Mention gates, steps, slopes and soft ground. If the area is shared, obtain permission from the property manager. Curbside service describes accessible loading; it does not give permission to leave belongings in a public space.
- 2
Show what is leaving while it is still identifiable
Photograph the full group before covering it. Include a written count of furniture, bags and loose pieces. Mark any nearby planters, tools or outdoor furniture that must stay. A covered pile by itself does not show its contents, weight or condition clearly enough for a useful preliminary range.
- 3
Keep weather exposure to a minimum
Discuss how long the items will be outside. Wet upholstery, cardboard and loose debris can become harder to handle and may lose reuse options. Secure light material so it cannot scatter. Use a cover only if you can place it safely; tell the crew whether the cover belongs to you and must remain.
- 4
Disclose changes after the initial photos
If rain soaks a sofa, boxes collapse or the pile grows, send an updated description before arrival. Moisture, hidden contents and difficult access can change the plan or price. Keep unknown liquids, batteries, paint and other restricted materials separate for review instead of hiding them in bags.
- 5
Confirm approval and access
Arrange who will approve the onsite scope and price, open the gate and identify the exact pile. If you cannot attend, agree on that process beforehand. At completion, check that approved items are gone and retained belongings, tarps and containers remain as agreed.