Whether you're leaving behind your Georgetown townhouse for the more open spaces of Virginia or clearing out the clutter in the basement of your Silver Spring home, you may need a junk hauling service.

Here are some things to keep in mind as you scout for a company to help you haul away your trash:

• Make sure the company provides services in your area. Because the D.C. area generally includes Maryland and northern Virginia for many businesses, chances are you can find a service provider for your location. However, there may be companies that service a smaller area, which may not include yours.
• Make sure the company has the staff and equipment necessary. If you have heavy items, such as refrigerators, stoves or washing machines to haul away, the company needs to have enough people and proper equipment to prevent injury.
• Ask about any additional fees. The company may have quoted a per-hour or per-job charge, but there could also be other disposal fees, such as payments that must be made for transportation to a landfill or recycling programs.
• Ask whether the company will use a dumpster or a truck. Getting a dumpster can add expense and inconvenience, because it needs to be set near your property in advance. Some companies are able to do all the necessary hauling using their own fleet of trucks.
• Check permits for hazardous waste removal. Not all companies are permitted to haul paints, kerosene or other household chemicals. For those actually living in D.C., household hazardous waste, e-cycling and document shredding services are offered at the Ft. Totten Transfer Station at 4900 John F. McCormack Road N.E.

When hiring a hauling service, make sure you compare prices and services from at least three providers. Also, it’s important to check referrals or Angie’s List reviews to determine the quality of service, as well as inquire about insurance and bonding.