Get exclusive money-saving offers and guides
Straight to your inbox
By signing up, you agree to the Finder
Privacy & Cookies Policy
and
Terms of Use, Disclaimer & Privacy Policy.
How to start a rubbish removal business
From your business structure to pricing, here's what you need to know about starting a rubbish removal business.
How To Guides
Guides
We’re reader-supported and may be paid when you visit links to partner sites. We don’t compare all products in the market, but we’re working on it!
Rubbish removal can be tricky for individuals and businesses, which is why rubbish removal businesses can make a decent profit by offering their services. These businesses help people remove rubbish that cannot easily be thrown out by collecting it and taking it to a waste disposal centre.
In this article, we'll take a look at the costs associated with setting up a rubbish removal service as well as the tools and qualifications required to run a successful company.
What's in this guide?
What skills, knowledge or requirements do I need to start a rubbish removal business?
You don't strictly need any specific qualifications to start a rubbish removal service, but certain skills will come in handy with building your business. You will need to have a basic understanding of finance so you can crunch your business numbers as well as knowledge of local marketing.
You will also need to know about what your customers are looking to dispose of and how you can do this safely. A general understanding of waste removal in your town or city will be beneficial.
What courses or qualifications do I need to complete?
While there's no formal qualification needed to start a rubbish removal business, there are some courses available online where you can learn about waste disposal and management methods. These may include:
- Certificate of environmental waste management. An online program which will teach you about waste management and disposal processes.
- Certificate III in Waste Management. An 11-month course which will help people engaged in operational waste management.
Want to learn more?
Access thousands of courses from some of Australia's leading providers.
Equipment and software needed to start a rubbish removal business
You will need a few bits of equipment to get your business up and running. This includes:
- A pick-up van or truck
- Skip bin
- A dolly
- Extension cords
- Shovel
- Hammer
- Sledgehammer
- Rake
- Rarps
- Socket sets
- Push broom
- Reciprocating saw
- Wheelbarrow
- Broom and trash cans.
In terms of business software, you can consider platforms such as Jobber and Workiz Easy which can help in scheduling, managing payments, time tracking and providing great customer service.
What business structures do I need to consider to start a rubbish removal business?
If you're planning to run the business yourself, you may choose to set yourself up as a sole trader. This puts you in charge of all business decisions, assets and liabilities. For tax, you're able to submit your business tax under your personal Tax File Number (TFN).
You can also decide whether to franchise or start your own business. A franchise might be advantageous because you can work with existing business models, advertising, and branding. However, consider the expense and other downsides before you set it up.
Do I need any legal documents written up before I start operating? What about online legal services?
You'll want to think about certain legal documents to get your business up and running. This includes services agreements so you can establish what is expected for your customers and partnership agreements if you are engaging in a partnership.
For online and marketing, you're likely to need a website terms and conditions as well as an email disclaimer to protect your business if an issue arises.
Get access to legal services and documents online
Does your company belong in this list?
How can I build up my customer base?
You can start to build up a customer base using various marketing channels ranging from email marketing, social media and traditional word-of-mouth marketing.
In addition to these channels, you can also explore various online marketplaces that might be able to allow you to locate jobs. These include:
- Hipages which can be used to identify local customers.
- Airtasker allows you to offer your skills to customers.
- Oneflare is used for Australian consumers to identify services related to home improvement.
You can also list your business on business directories such as TrueLocal and White Pages.
How much should I charge my customers?
In this type of business, it's typical to charge customers by volume, time or weight. The simplest of these three methods is time, that is, you charge customers for how long a job takes. This takes into account weight and volume as the more rubbish there is to dispose of, the longer it will take. Hourly rates in Australia typically vary between $30 and $80. You may also want to charge a call-out fee or a disposal fee.
Volume-based pricing is also worth considering and is based on how full your truck is. For both time and volume charges, you can use software to help you track and calculate costs.
Ready to get set up with Square?
Get your business moving with payment terminals, QR code ordering, invoices and more.Frequently asked questions
Can I dispose of all rubbish for my customers?
You can decide whether to offer disposal of all items or to have a forbidden items list. Some items, such as those that are flammable or corrosive, will be more difficult and expensive to get rid of. Make sure this is reflected in your pricing.
Should I invest in a rubbish removal franchise?
Investing in a franchise is a good way to start a business as you're buying into the reputation of a company. You can also save on marketing costs and find customers more quickly. However, you need to consider the downsides of franchise, which include franchise fees, large upfront expenses and sometimes restrictive conditions which can limit your business' success.
What are the other costs associated with a rubbish removal business?
There are a few costs to consider with a rubbish removal business including the cost to dispose the rubbish, fuel and insurance.
More guides on Finder
-
How to start house sitting
How to snag and what to expect from your house sitting gig.
-
How to start a YouTube channel
Read the key points of starting a YouTube channel, including the equipment you'll need and the legal considerations to keep in mind.
-
Treadmill removal services
Here’s how you can ensure your treadmill is moved safely and at a convenient time.
-
How to start an event photography business
From practical steps to key legal documents, here's your checklist for launching an event photography company.
-
Best instant coffee brands in Australia
From value for money to aroma, here are the five best instant coffee brands according to Aussies.
-
Removal truck services
Save time and hassle when you move by booking a professional removal truck service.
-
How to keep your NBN plan when moving house
Happy with your current NBN plan? Find out what NBN relocation services are available for keeping your NBN provider when you’re moving.
-
What is a redraw facility?
Here's what borrowers need to know about home loans with redraw facilities.
-
Spa removal services
Free yourself from the hassle of disposing of your spa with the help of a professional.
-
How to start an oven cleaning business
Learn the key points to know before launching an oven cleaning company.
Ask an Expert
