What Our First Junk Removal Job Taught Us About Business

One year ago, we pulled up to our first junk removal job with a small trailer, excited to get started.

It was my first bid, and I underbid it badly. Looking back, I could have charged four or five times what I did. The customer asked if we could stay in a certain price range, and without seeing it in person, I agreed.

We showed up in the July heat with no AC, ready to work. There was cat hair everywhere, cat feces in places I would rather not describe, used feminine products in corners, and a fridge full of expired food that made the entire place reek.

Halfway through, I remember thinking, what did I get myself into? That day, I learned three lessons I will never forget:

First, it is better to overbid and not get a job than to underbid and get it.

Second, for larger jobs like cleanouts and property cleanups, always see the job in person before quoting. Photos rarely tell the whole story.

Third, there is no better teacher than getting out there and doing the work, even when it is uncomfortable.

It took us three hours to finish, and it handed us a tough lesson right out of the gate. But it also taught me about serving people, valuing hard work, and what it takes to build something from the ground up.

Now, one year later, we are still here, helping people clear out what is holding them back and making space for what matters.

If you have ever thought about starting your own business, I hope this encourages you to take the first step, even if it is messy and imperfect.

To everyone who has supported us, shared our name, or trusted us with your cleanouts this past year, thank you. You have helped us grow, and I am grateful.