Safe Removal Cost by Type
| Safe Type | Typical Weight | Removal Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Small handgun safe / fireproof document safe | 20–80 lbs | $75–$150 (min charge) |
| Small gun safe (8–12 guns) | 200–350 lbs | $150–$300 |
| Mid-size gun safe (20–30 guns) | 400–700 lbs | $250–$450 |
| Large gun safe / high-security | 700–1,500 lbs | $400–$700+ |
| Floor safe (cemented) | 50–300 lbs | $200–$500 (extraction extra) |
Stair and Access Surcharges
Weight is one factor; access is another. Junk removal companies charge more when a safe must be moved on stairs, through narrow hallways, or down from upper floors:
- Per flight of stairs: $50–$150 surcharge per flight depending on safe weight
- Basement extraction: Often requires a stair-climbing dolly or professional rigging
- Narrow doorways: Safes wider than standard door frames may require partial disassembly or removal of the door frame
What to Do With a Locked Safe
If you've inherited a locked safe or forgotten the combination:
- Contact the manufacturer — Many safe manufacturers can open or provide the combination if you have proof of purchase or the serial number
- Hire a licensed locksmith — A locksmith specializing in safes can drill or manipulate the lock. Cost: $150–$400 depending on complexity
- Safe crackers / safetech specialists — For high-value or high-security safes, a safe technician is more appropriate than a general locksmith
Only call junk removal after the safe is empty and unlocked (or permanently open). Most companies require safes to be empty and either unlocked or permanently disabled before hauling.
Sell or Scrap Options
- Facebook Marketplace / Craigslist: Working safes in good condition sell for 20–40% of retail. List with interior photos and dimensions
- Gun stores / pawnshops: Will sometimes buy gun safes outright or on consignment
- Scrap metal yard: A 400 lb steel safe yields $30–$60 at current scrap prices. Not worth a special trip, but offsets haul cost if you deliver yourself
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to remove a safe?
Safe removal typically costs $150–$400 depending on size and weight. Large gun safes (500+ lbs) or safes that need to go up or down stairs cost $300–$600. Most junk removal companies charge a premium for heavy safes due to injury risk.
Can a junk removal company open a locked safe?
No — junk removal companies cannot open locked safes. You need to hire a locksmith ($150–$400) to drill or manipulate the lock first, then call junk removal for haul-away.
How much does a typical gun safe weigh?
A small gun safe holds 8–12 guns and weighs 200–400 lbs. Mid-size safes (20–30 guns) weigh 400–700 lbs. Large gun safes and high-security models can weigh 800–1,500 lbs or more.
Can I scrap a safe for metal?
Yes. Safes are typically steel and accepted at scrap yards. A 400 lb safe yields roughly $30–$60 at scrap prices. Most junk removal companies will take safes to a scrap yard rather than a landfill.
What do I do with a safe that is bolted to the floor?
A locksmith or handyman can unbolt a floor-mounted safe. Once unbolted and emptied, a junk removal company can haul it. Never attempt to pry or drill an unfamiliar safe without professional guidance.