How To Get Rid of Furniture in NYC: Key Takeaways
- There are different ways to dispose of your furniture in NYC: through bulk pickup services, donation, resale, or using professional moving services
- NYC’s strict rules for furniture disposal, small spaces, and building policies can make furniture removal difficult
- Choose a licensed moving company with good reviews to ensure the job is done and you don’t risk fines
You just signed the lease agreement for that sunny apartment in Brooklyn. But now, looking at your old and outdated furniture, you’re probably asking yourself “Can I just leave the couch on the curb?”
Getting rid of furniture in NYC isn’t always straightforward, and we’re here to explain why.
We’ll share:
- How to dispose of furniture without risking fines
- What makes furniture removal challenging
- How to choose a reliable mover to handle it for you
Not sure what disposal rules are? Imperial Movers will take care of your old furniture
Easy Ways To Dispose of Old Furniture in NYC
Feeling overwhelmed by the thought of dragging your old couch or table to the dump yourself? There are simple options to make disposal less stressful.
Use NYC Free Bulk Pickup
NYC’s Department of Sanitation (DSNY) offers free curbside collection for large items like couches, chairs, or dressers.
All you must do is follow the rules: check out the details in our Furniture Disposal section below.
Donate to a Local Charity
Do you think your furniture can still be used? Give it a second life by reaching out to organizations like Goodwill, Habitat for Humanity, and Housing Works, who help local families in need.
They typically accept used furniture in good shape and may even offer free pickup. Another benefit? Donation keeps bulky items out of landfills, protecting the environment.
Sell or Give Away
Post an ad on Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace. Just snap a picture, create a short description, and coordinate the pickup time.
Call Furniture Removal Services
Want to get rid of your old furniture with zero hassle? Research licensed junk removal and moving companies.
These pros can break down, lift, and haul your stuff, clearing your space. No need to use a furniture lifter, no risk of back injuries, and no wasted time. You can have everything out in an hour or a day, depending on the load.
Why NYC Furniture Disposal Isn’t As Simple as It Sounds
So, can you leave furniture on the curb in NYC? Let’s look closer at what the law says and the challenges you may face.
Legal Regulations
The Department of Sanitation collects certain large items on designated bulk collection days.
You’re allowed to put out up to six bulk items per collection.
- Separate your items as per the rules:
- Set out metal and rigid plastic furniture like metal bed frames, shelving units, or hard plastic chairs for recycling.
- Set out non-recyclable furniture, like wood pieces, fabric couches, or composite materials, with your regular trash.
- Seal mattresses and box springs in plastic bags before placing them on the curb. This helps prevent the spread of bed bugs and pests. Heads up! If you don’t wrap your mattress, you could face a fine of up to $300.
- Place your furniture at the curb between 6 p.m. and midnight before your collection day.
- Make sure furniture doesn’t obstruct pedestrian traffic and is not in front of another property.
Limited Space
If you’ve ever tried squeezing a sofa down a fifth-floor walk-up, you know it can be a real pain, especially if there’s no one to help you.
Building Rules & COIs
Many buildings in NYC require you to reserve elevators, obtain a Certificate of Insurance (COI), or schedule removals during certain hours. Handling these alone can be time- and effort-consuming.
Disposing of old furniture in NYC comes with a few challenges
How To Find the Right Moving Company for Furniture Disposal
If you’re downsizing or clearing your space before a move, you may be considering professional help to get rid of the things you don’t need.
1. Look for Licensed and Insured Companies
Verify that the company is fully licensed by the Department of Transportation. Avoid “cash-only” haulers who can’t provide credentials, as they may dump furniture in places that are not legally permitted: alleyways, vacant lots, or unauthorized public spaces.
This can:
- Harm the environment.
- Lead to fines if the items are traced back to you.
2. Ask If They Handle Furniture Disposal
Some companies offer full-service moves including furniture disposal, while others may only transport what you’re keeping. Ask them if they dispose of old or broken furniture or if they can donate the items on your behalf.
3. Check if They Use Eco-Friendly Disposal Options
Look for companies that:
- Recycle
- Donate usable items
- Partner with local nonprofits and secondhand shops
4. Read Reviews
Check out customer feedback on Google and Yelp and pay special attention to comments about bulky removals.
5. Compare Pricing
Ask for a quote in writing that includes all fees. This is key for large furniture items that need disassembly and carrying downstairs.
Consider a few factors when choosing a furniture disposal company
Need To Get Rid of Your Old Furniture? Imperial Movers Can Help
At Imperial Movers, we can both move your belongings to your new address and help you dispose of the items you no longer need.
What makes us different from other movers?
We are:
- A full-service moving company, meaning we handle the nitty-gritty, so you don’t have to.
- Licensed & insured, complying with all Department of Sanitation regulations and disposal requirements, so you don’t risk fines.
- Eco-friendly & donation-oriented, working with local nonprofits and always seeking ways to find a second home for your furniture.
- Flexible, so you can schedule same-day or weekend pickups, depending on your schedule and plans.
- Transparent, as our pricing doesn’t include hidden fees, and you always know what’s included in the service.
Need furniture gone by tomorrow? Imperial Movers can help
How To Get Rid of Furniture in NYC: FAQs
Can you leave furniture on the curb in NYC?
Yes, but only if you follow the NYC Department of Sanitation’s rules. You can leave most large items out after 6 p.m. and midnight before your collection day. Mattresses and box springs must be sealed in plastic.
Do I need to schedule furniture pickup in NYC?
For more than six bulk items, call 311 NYC. If you’re disposing of one or two large items, an appointment isn’t required, but you strictly follow the rules.
How do I dispose of a couch in NYC?
To dispose of a couch in NYC, place it on the curb with your regular trash or call professional movers like Imperial. We’ll take care of everything, from disassembly to hauling it away and disposing of it legally.
What if I need furniture picked up on a specific day?
Bulk pickup schedules depend on your address. If you need furniture gone on a specific date, call our Imperial Movers’ team.
Is donating furniture better than tossing it?
If your furniture is still usable, consider giving it away. This will reduce waste, and you can help someone who really needs it.
Can I leave furniture outside for someone to take in NYC?
Even if you want to leave your furniture outside for someone to take, you must follow DSNY rules, as it’s considered left “on the curb.” Mark it as “free” and place it out at the correct time before bulk collection.
My building won’t let me leave furniture at the curb. What can I do?
Ask your building if they offer private removal services or can recommend a moving company. If both options don’t work, research movers in your borough or explore other options such as donation or gifting. Our team at Imperial will pick up your furniture directly from your apartment, taking care of all the hassle.
Are there fees for DSNY bulk pickup?
No, curbside bulk pickup is free.
What will be the consequences if I leave furniture without sticking to the pickup rules?
Failing to follow the pickup rules may lead to a sanitation violation fine, especially if:
- The furniture blocks sidewalks
- Is set out outside scheduled pickup times
- Isn’t properly bagged (like mattresses)
Can I use the pickup service for furniture that isn’t in good condition?
Yes, DSNY can collect damaged items like broken chairs or ripped couches as long as they meet bulk collection criteria.
Which one is better for furniture disposal: a mover or a junk removal company?
If you’re moving and decluttering at the same time, call a full-service mover like Imperial Movers who can handle both. If you’re just clearing junk, you can opt for a standalone removal service.
Can I leave furniture in front of someone else’s building?
No, you must place furniture in front of your own property. Leaving it elsewhere could lead to fines or complaints.
What if I’m moving out quickly and missed my pickup day?
If you’re moving out and missed your pickup day, call Imperial Movers. We offer same-day and next-day services across NYC.
Not sure where to begin? Call Imperial Movers
