What counts as a bulky item?
The city splits large items into two groups. Compactible furniture, like sofas, mattresses and box springs, can go out with regular trash within limits. Large appliances, like refrigerators, stoves, washers and air conditioners, are not collected on trash day at all.
Knowing which group your item belongs to tells you which options you have.
Option 1: Curbside on trash day (furniture only)
Philadelphia collects up to two compactible furniture items per week with regular trash. Mattresses and box springs must be sealed in a plastic mattress bag first.
Set items out during the allowed window the night before collection. It is free, but you have to carry everything to the curb yourself, and appliances left outside will not be picked up.
Option 2: The city's bulk collection program
Single-family homes and buildings with up to six units can book a bulk pickup at bulkcollection.phila.gov or by calling 311, with up to four bulk items per appointment. Large appliances are eligible, but refrigerator doors must be removed.
Appointments are limited and first come, first served, so this works best when you are not in a hurry.
Option 3: Drop off at a sanitation convenience center
The six city sanitation convenience centers are open Monday through Saturday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. They accept furniture and appliances, with a limit of two bulk items per day. You need proof of Philadelphia residency and a vehicle under 6,000 pounds.
If you have a pickup truck and someone to help you lift, this is quick and free.
Option 4: Donate what still works
Clean furniture in good condition can often be donated. Many charities are strict about upholstered pieces, so send photos before you haul anything over.
When DumpGo picks up furniture that is still in good, usable condition, we donate it to local charities whenever possible.
Option 5: Same-day bulky item pickup with DumpGo
If you have more than two items, appliances mixed with furniture, stairs, or no truck, a junk removal crew is the easiest way. With DumpGo you pick your items online and see the full price before you book. The crew does all the lifting and loading.
Current Philadelphia prices from our catalog (one $75 service fee is added per pickup):
- Couch or loveseat: $30
- Recliner: $55
- Queen mattress: $35 and queen box spring: $20
- Standard refrigerator: $60
- Washer: $30 and dryer: $30
- Book 4 to 5 items and save 10% on the items; 6 or more items saves 20%
Example: clearing a living room and laundry room
A couch, a recliner, a refrigerator and a washer come to $175 in items. With 4 items you save 10%, so the items cost $157.50, and with the $75 service fee the total is $232.50, carried out from wherever they are in the house.