Quick Answer
Volume-based pricing means you pay based on how much space your items take up in the junk removal truck. The more truck space your junk fills, the higher the price. In San Jose, volume-based junk removal typically ranges from $150 for a small load to $900+ for a full truck, depending on material type and labor difficulty. Prices are not fixed and vary depending on the job.
How Volume-Based Pricing Works
Most professional junk removal companies divide their truck into sections (fractions). Your price depends on how much of that truck space your items occupy. Instead of charging hourly, companies calculate cost by visual volume.
For example:
Minimum load (very small pickup) – $150–$250
1/8 truck load – $200–$300
1/4 truck load – $250–$400
1/2 truck load – $400–$650
3/4 truck load – $650–$800
Full truck load – $750–$900+
These are general ranges in Santa Clara County and vary depending on materials and job conditions.
Why Companies Use Volume Pricing
1️⃣ It’s transparent – You see exactly how much space your items take.
2️⃣ It’s fair – You only pay for what you use.
3️⃣ It’s predictable – Pricing is based on measurable truck space.
4️⃣ It includes labor – Loading and hauling are built into the price.
What Affects Volume Pricing
Even though pricing is based on truck space, several factors influence your final quote:
Material Type – Heavy materials like concrete, dirt, tile, or roofing increase disposal costs.
Weight – Even if items don’t fill much space, heavy debris may raise the price.
Labor – Stairs, tight spaces, disassembly, or long walking distances increase effort.
Accessibility – Limited truck access or apartment complexes can affect labor time.
Same-Day Service – Priority scheduling may cost more.
Because of these factors, volume-based pricing is not a flat rate system. Two half-truck loads may cost different amounts depending on materials and difficulty.
Real-World Example
Example 1:
A few pieces of furniture filling 1/4 of a truck with easy driveway access might cost around $300–$350.
Example 2:
1/4 truck of broken tile and concrete may cost $400–$500 due to weight and disposal fees.
Same volume, different materials — different pricing.
Volume Pricing vs Hourly Pricing
Volume pricing:
• Based on truck space
• Includes labor and disposal
• Predictable before job begins
Hourly pricing:
• Based on time spent
• May vary if job takes longer
• Less predictable final cost
Most professional junk removal companies prefer volume pricing because it’s clearer for customers.
How to Reduce Your Volume Cost
• Break down bulky items to reduce space
• Separate heavy debris from household junk
• Donate reusable furniture
• Combine items into one pickup
• Avoid multiple small trips
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know how much volume my junk takes?
A team member typically provides a free on-site estimate and shows you how much truck space your items will fill before giving a final price.
Is volume pricing cheaper than renting a dumpster?
For small to medium jobs, volume-based junk removal is often cheaper because labor and disposal are included, and you don’t pay for unused dumpster space.
Can heavy items increase the price even if they don’t take much space?
Yes. Heavy materials like concrete, dirt, and bricks often cost more due to weight-based disposal fees in Santa Clara County.
Is there a minimum charge?
Most companies have a minimum load price that covers travel, labor, and disposal, usually starting around $150–$250 in the San Jose area.
Does volume pricing include labor and cleanup?
In most cases, yes. Professional junk removal services include loading, hauling, and basic sweep-up in the quoted price.
Final Thoughts
Volume-based pricing is designed to be simple and transparent. You pay based on how much space your junk takes in the truck, with adjustments for material type, weight, and labor difficulty. In San Jose, most jobs range from $150 to $900+, but pricing varies depending on the specific job conditions.
NAP – Dalux Junk Removal & Hauling
Dalux Junk Removal & Hauling
408-466-0288
Morgan Ave, Morgan Hill, CA 95037, United States
