“I genuinely cannot recommend Austin and his junk removal business enough. Earlier today, I found myself trying to help my brother through a pretty awful situation. His refrigerator had broken and, unfortunately, had become infested with flies and maggots. I was overwhelmed trying to figure out how to get it removed quickly and safely, so I called Austin, and I am incredibly grateful that I did. From the moment he answered the phone, Austin was friendly, professional, compassionate, and understanding. There was absolutely no judgment, just kindness and a genuine willingness to help. What impressed me even more was that he showed up within an hour of my call and immediately took care of the situation. It’s one thing to provide a service well, but it’s another thing entirely to recognize that sometimes people are calling you because they’re dealing with a difficult or embarrassing situation and simply need someone they can count on. Austin made both my brother and me feel completely comfortable and understood. He treated the situation with respect, handled everything professionally, and turned what had been an incredibly stressful problem into something we no longer had to worry about. If you need junk removal, please support Austin and his business. This is exactly the kind of local business owner who deserves our support reliable, hardworking, responsive, professional, and, above all, genuinely kind. Austin, thank you for showing up when we really needed someone and for treating my brother with such dignity and respect. You didn’t just remove a refrigerator, you made a difficult day a whole lot easier for both of us. Five stars without hesitation. I would recommend Austin to anyone. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐”
AboutKraken Junk Removal
Kraken Junk Removal is a locally owned, owner-operated junk removal company founded in 2021 by Austin. Based in Johnson City, we provide full-service junk removal across the Tri-Cities and keep the work personal—from the first call through the final sweep-up.
Send Austin a Message
Tell me what you need removed and I'll get back to you with a personalized quote.
Meet the Owner
Austin Kraken Junk Removal
Hi, I'm Austin, owner of Kraken Junk Removal. Before starting Kraken, I spent 12 years teaching in the public school system. That experience reinforced the importance of patience, communication, showing up for people, and taking responsibility for the work you do.
I've always wanted to own and operate my own business. I started Kraken in 2021, and one major motivation was my kids. I wanted to lead by example and show them that they can chase their dreams, work toward something of their own, and be successful.
When you call or text for a free estimate, you'll work directly with me—not a franchise, call center, or random dispatcher. Today, Kraken is owner-operated, and I personally handle the majority of the work. For larger cleanouts or heavier jobs, additional help may come along when it's needed.
From the first conversation through the final sweep-up, my goal is straightforward: honest pricing, respectful service, and a space that feels better when we leave. Whether it's one item or a full property cleanout, you'll deal with a real local owner who shows up and gets it done.
- Owner-Operated Since 2021
- Based in Johnson City, TN
- Proudly Serving the Tri-Cities
- Work Directly With the Owner
Behind the Name
The Story Behind Kraken Junk Removal
I wanted a business name people would remember—and one that wouldn't disappear among a long list of similarly named junk removal companies. When potential customers search your name online, the last thing you want is twenty nearly identical results.
While I was thinking through names, I remembered seeing a Kraken design at a store. I'm originally from Florida, and the sea-creature feel connected naturally with that background, so the name stuck.
After moving to Tennessee, I wondered whether Kraken should be rebranded. A water creature doesn't exactly match the mountains of East Tennessee. I considered changing it—but I kept it. The unusual name helps us stand out, and customers regularly respond well to the brand. When I mention that I've thought about renaming the company, people often tell me to keep it. That settled it.
Working With Us
What CustomersCan Expect
Hiring Kraken should feel simple and straightforward. Here's what that looks like in practice—including same-day or next-day help when scheduling allows.
- 01
Work Directly With the Owner
You talk with Austin from the first estimate through the finished job—not a call center or franchise dispatcher.
- 02
Upfront Pricing
You get a clear price before anything is loaded, so there are no surprises at the end.
- 03
Respect for Your Property
We take care with walkways, floors, and the spaces we work in while the junk is coming out.
- 04
Fully Insured & Professionally Operated
Kraken is fully insured and professionally operated, so you can hire with confidence.
- 05
Responsible Donation & Recycling
When it's practical, usable items may be donated and recyclable materials may be recycled instead of landfilled.
- 06
Broom-Sweep Finish
After the haul, we broom-sweep the cleared area so the space feels ready to use again.
Customer Reviews
What Customers Say About Kraken Junk Removal
Responsible Waste Management
More Than JustHauling Away Junk
Our eco-friendly junk removal approach focuses on practical waste management. When possible, usable goods may be donated, recyclable materials may be separated for recycling, and remaining material is taken to an appropriate disposal facility.
We've developed a strong working relationship with Habitat for Humanity and regularly donate usable items when they're a good fit.
Donate When It Fits
Usable furniture and household goods may be donated when an organization can accept them.
Recycle When Practical
Metal, cardboard, and other recyclable materials may be separated and taken to an appropriate facility.
Dispose Responsibly
Material that cannot be reused or recycled is taken to an appropriate disposal facility.
Service Area
Proudly Serving theTri-Cities
Kraken Junk Removal is based in Johnson City and serves customers throughout the Tri-Cities and Northeast Tennessee—including Kingsport, Bristol, Jonesborough, Gray, Piney Flats, Elizabethton, Blountville, and nearby communities.
Based in Johnson City and serving communities throughout Northeast Tennessee.
Free Estimate
Ready to Work WithKraken Junk Removal?
Call or text Austin with a quick description—or a few photos—and we'll help you figure out the next step. No call center. No pressure.
Text Us Your Photos
Fastest OptionTexting a few clear photos is the fastest and easiest way to get an estimate for many junk removal jobs. Send photos of the items or area you need cleared, and we'll review them and respond with pricing or follow-up questions if needed.
Text PhotosFAQ
About Kraken Junk Removal
Straight answers about who owns Kraken Junk Removal, where we work, and how to get started.
Kraken Junk Removal is owned and operated by Austin, who personally handles the majority of the company's junk removal jobs. For larger or heavier projects, additional help may be brought in as needed. Customers get local, owner-operated service rather than dealing with a franchise or national call center.
Yes. Kraken Junk Removal is a locally owned and owner-operated junk removal company based in Johnson City, Tennessee. Austin serves homeowners, businesses, landlords, property managers, and contractors throughout the Tri-Cities and surrounding Northeast Tennessee communities.
Kraken Junk Removal is based at 506 Lamont St, Johnson City, TN 37604. From Johnson City, Kraken provides junk removal and cleanout services throughout the Tri-Cities and surrounding Northeast Tennessee communities, including Kingsport and Bristol.
Austin founded Kraken Junk Removal in 2021 after wanting to build a business of his own and set an example for his kids that they could pursue their own goals and dreams. Before starting Kraken, Austin spent 12 years as a public-school teacher.
Austin chose the name Kraken Junk Removal because he wanted a business name that would be different and memorable. Originally from Florida, he liked the connection between the Kraken and the water. After moving to Tennessee, he considered changing the name, but customers loved it—and Kraken stuck.
Kraken Junk Removal serves Johnson City, Kingsport, Bristol, and communities throughout the Tri-Cities and Northeast Tennessee. Service is also available in areas including Jonesborough, Gray, Elizabethton, Blountville, Piney Flats, and surrounding communities.
Yes. Kraken Junk Removal is fully insured and professionally operated. Austin takes care to provide dependable service while respecting customers' homes, businesses, and properties throughout the removal process.
Kraken Junk Removal offers free estimates with upfront pricing before the work begins. Call or text Austin, use the estimate options on this About page, or request an estimate through the contact page. For many jobs, photos help clarify scope before scheduling.
NEED IT GONE TODAY?
Call the Kraken Let's Make It Happen
Whether you need one bulky item removed or an entire property cleaned out, Kraken Junk Removal makes the process simple. We handle the lifting, loading, hauling, and cleanup so you can enjoy your space again.
