How Junk Haulers Can Make Extra Money with Storage Unit Auctions

If you’ve been running a trash or junk removal business for a while, you’ve probably experienced slow days when the phone just doesn’t ring. Those light days can be frustrating — your truck is ready, your schedule is open, but the work just isn’t there. Fortunately, there’s a smart and profitable sideline business that fits perfectly with junk hauling — attending storage unit auctions.

This simple side hustle can fill the gaps in your schedule and bring in extra income without requiring any new equipment. In fact, all you need is your existing vehicle, a bit of time, and a good eye for opportunity. Let’s look at how junk haulers can profit from storage unit auctions in three powerful ways.

Why Storage Unit Auctions Are Booming

The self-storage industry is huge — and still growing. According to industry estimates, about one in ten American households rents a storage unit. Many people use them to store overflow from their homes, but in recent years, the number of storage renters has increased due to economic challenges, housing instability, and major life transitions like divorce or relocation.

Unfortunately, not everyone manages to keep up with their storage payments. When that happens, the facility auctions off the contents of the unit to recover lost rent. That’s where opportunity strikes — for both bidders and haulers.

These abandoned units often need to be cleared quickly, and that creates steady work for junk removal professionals. Whether you’re helping bidders haul away items or buying units yourself to resell what’s inside, storage auctions can become a profitable part of your business strategy.

1. Get Paid to Haul for Winning Bidders

The first and easiest way to make money is to offer your hauling services to auction winners. When bidders win a storage unit, they’re usually required by law (and the facility’s policy) to clear out the unit within 24 to 48 hours. Many bidders, especially first-timers, quickly realize they’ve bitten off more than they can chew.

They might win more units than expected or simply lack the right vehicle to move large furniture and boxes. That’s where you come in. As a junk hauler with a truck or van, you can charge a reasonable fee to help them transport or dispose of items.

Pro tip: Arrive at the auction site at least 30 minutes early. Park your vehicle where everyone can see it, and bring plenty of business cards. Introduce yourself to bidders and let them know you’re available to help with hauling, cleaning, or disposal.

It’s an easy, low-risk way to earn quick cash — and a great way to meet potential repeat customers.

2. Build Relationships with Storage Facility Managers

The second way to profit from storage auctions is by networking directly with the storage facility staff. Storage managers often have to deal with abandoned or unsold units that didn’t receive any bids during auctions. These units are typically filled with trash, old furniture, and unwanted items — and someone still has to clean them out.

You can become that “someone.” By offering your services to clean out those unclaimed units, you’re helping the manager free up rentable space quickly — and getting paid in the process.

Once you’ve established a good reputation, facility managers may call you regularly for new cleanup jobs. This can lead to consistent work and a reliable stream of income, especially if you cover several facilities in your area.

Tip: When you meet storage managers, be polite, professional, and punctual. Follow through on every job you accept. Word-of-mouth recommendations among storage facilities can make you the go-to hauler in your area.

3. Buy Units Yourself and Resell the Contents

The third — and most exciting — way to profit is to become a bidder yourself. If you’ve ever watched Storage Wars, you already know how thrilling these auctions can be. Every unit is a mystery: you might find worthless junk, or you might strike gold.

Here’s how to get started smartly and safely:

Find Local Auctions

Check your local Yellow Pages or search online for “storage unit auctions near me.” You can also visit auctionzip.com, which lists upcoming auctions by ZIP code and even includes interactive calendars.

Bring the Right Tools

Come prepared with:

• A strong flashlight to see into dark units

• Padlocks for any units you win

• A notepad and pen to record details

• Cleanup supplies (broom, gloves, garbage bags)

• Enough cash for bids and required deposits (checks and credit cards are usually not accepted)

Register and Observe

Most facilities require you to register as a bidder and sign an agreement before the auction begins. If you’re new, start by observing a few auctions before placing any bids. You’ll quickly learn how pricing trends work and what other bidders look for.

Inspect Carefully

You won’t be allowed to step inside the unit, but you can look from the doorway. Use your flashlight to spot valuable clues — high-end furniture, electronics, tools, or designer-labeled boxes. Organized units usually signal more valuable contents, while messy, disorganized ones often contain low-value junk.

Set a Spending Limit

Bidding wars can get intense. It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement and overpay. Always decide in advance how much you’re willing to spend and stick to that number. Remember: about half of what you find will probably be trash, so keep disposal costs in mind.

Learn from Experience

Keep detailed notes about what units sold for and what size they were. Over time, you’ll recognize fair prices and avoid overbidding. For example, if you know most 10x15 units sell between $60 and $200, you’ll know not to start at $150 unless you spot something clearly valuable.

Turning Your Finds into Cash

Once you’ve cleared out a unit, it’s time to sell what you’ve found. Don’t limit yourself to just one sales platform. Instead, use multiple channels for faster results:

• Garage or yard sales for quick turnover

• eBay or Facebook Marketplace for collectibles and electronics

• Flea markets for miscellaneous items

• Craigslist for furniture or large household goods

If something doesn’t sell, consider donating it to charity for a tax deduction or putting it in your next garage sale. Remember, your goal is to move inventory quickly and turn it into cash, not to sit on slow-moving items.

While storage auctions can be exciting and profitable, remember that this is a sideline, not your main business. Your junk removal service is still your most reliable income source. Storage auctions can supplement that income, fill downtime, and help you meet new clients — but they shouldn’t replace your primary focus.

Also, beware of “blind auctions.” In these, bidders must make offers without seeing inside the unit at all. These auctions are pure gambling, and the odds usually favor the house. Approach them with caution.

Storage unit auctions offer a unique way for junk haulers to keep their schedules full and their income steady. Whether you’re hauling for others, cleaning out unsold units, or bidding on your own, each approach can bring valuable opportunities to grow your business.

With a little preparation, smart bidding, and consistent effort, you can turn your free days into profitable ones — and maybe even uncover a few hidden treasures along the way.