Hiring a skip is a great way to tackle large clean-up projects, whether you’re renovating, decluttering, or managing a big gardening job.
However, to ensure the process runs smoothly and you make the most of your hired skip, it’s important to plan ahead.
Here’s a simple guide to help you prepare for your skip hire, so you can avoid unnecessary hassle and make your project as efficient as possible.
Hired Skip? Choose the Right Size
Before the skip even arrives, it’s essential to determine the right size.
Skips come in various sizes, ranging from small 2-yard skips to large 40-yard skips. The wrong size can lead to extra costs if you overfill or need to hire an additional skip, or you might end up paying for space you don’t use if you go too big.
Consider the amount of waste you have, whether it’s general rubbish, construction debris, or garden waste. Choosing the right size ensures you benefit from cheap skip hire, making your waste disposal both cost-effective and convenient.
Understanding Skip Sizes
Choosing the right skip size is crucial to ensure that you have enough space to dispose of your waste efficiently. Skip sizes vary from 2 to 40 yards, and the ideal size for you will depend on the amount of waste you need to dispose of and the space available for the skip.
Here are some general guidelines to help you choose the right skip size:
- 2-4 yard skips: Ideal for small DIY projects, garden waste, and household junk.
- 6-8 yard skips: Suitable for medium-sized projects, such as kitchen or bathroom renovations, and larger amounts of garden waste.
- 10-12 yard skips: Perfect for large construction projects, such as building extensions or renovations, and bulky waste.
- 14-16 yard skips: Ideal for very large construction projects, such as demolitions or large-scale renovations.
- 20-40 yard skips: Suitable for industrial or commercial waste disposal.
When choosing a skip size, consider the following factors:
- The amount of waste you need to dispose of
- The space available for the skip
- The type of waste you need to dispose of (e.g., heavy construction waste or light household junk)
- The duration of the hire period
It’s always better to err on the side of caution and choose a slightly larger skip size to avoid overfilling the skip and incurring additional costs.
Types of Skips
There are several types of skips available, each designed for specific types of waste and projects. Here are some of the most common types of skips:
- General Waste Skips: Suitable for household junk, garden waste, and construction waste.
- Inert Waste Skips: Designed for heavy construction waste, such as rubble, soil, and sand.
- Hazardous Waste Skips: Specifically designed for hazardous materials, such as asbestos, chemicals, and batteries.
- Recycling Skips: Designed for recyclable materials, such as paper, cardboard, and glass.
- Roll-On Roll-Off Skips: Large skips that are ideal for industrial or commercial waste disposal.
When choosing a skip type, consider the following factors:
- The type of waste you need to dispose of
- The size of the project
- The duration of the hire period
- Any specific regulations or restrictions in your area
Pick the Right Location for Your Skip
Where you place the skip is crucial for both accessibility and safety. Ensure you choose a flat, stable area that can accommodate the skip without obstructing driveways, walkways, or road access.
If you plan to place the skip on the street, you might need a permit from your local council. A skip hire permit is necessary when placing a skip on public highways rather than private land, and it should be arranged prior to the skip’s delivery. Check the rules ahead of time to avoid fines or delays.
Prepare for Collection and Delivery
On the day your skip is delivered, ensure the area is clear and accessible. You’ll want to make sure there are no obstructions like parked cars or overhanging trees. The skip will typically be delivered by a large truck, so it’s important to ensure there’s enough space for the truck to maneuver.
It’s also a good idea to communicate with the skip company about specific delivery times and any special instructions (like how to handle fragile surfaces or if you have a narrow driveway). The skip company can provide valuable guidance to ensure a smooth delivery process.
Sort and Organise Your Waste
Once the skip is in place, the next step is to organise the waste you intend to throw away. Sorting your waste before you start filling the skip can make the process smoother. It helps to separate recyclable materials, general waste, food waste, and hazardous materials (like paints or electrical items), which cannot go into the skip.
Some companies offer different types of skips for specific waste types, such as garden or mixed waste, so ensure that you know which type of waste your skip will be used for.
Don’t Overfill the Skip
While it may be tempting to cram as much as possible into the skip, avoid overfilling it. Overfilled skips can be hazardous, and in many cases, waste can spill out, causing safety issues during transport. Plus, the skip hire company may refuse to collect an overfilled skip, and you might incur extra charges. Skip prices can also increase due to potential additional costs associated with overfilling. Make sure the waste stays within the rim of the skip.
Avoid Putting Prohibited Items in the Skip
Be aware of the items that cannot be thrown into a skip. Common prohibited items include:
- Hazardous waste (chemicals, asbestos, batteries)
- Electrical items (fridges, TVs)
- Paint and solvents
- Tyres and gas canisters
- Large furniture (in some cases)
- Medical waste (biological waste, bodily fluids)
Check with your skip hire company beforehand to ensure you don’t accidentally place any forbidden items in the skip, as this could lead to fines or delays.
Plan for Skip Collection
Once you’ve filled the skip and the job is complete, it’s time for waste removal and collection. You’ll need to schedule a collection time with your skip hire company. Make sure the area is clear and accessible for the truck to pick up the skip. Depending on your location and the company, they may pick it up within a few days or schedule a specific date.
Check for Additional Charges
Some skip hire companies charge extra fees for extended rental times, overloading, or incorrect disposal. When considering a skip hire service, it’s important to understand that the service includes both the delivery and removal of the skip, but not the loading. Make sure you’re aware of any potential additional costs before the skip is collected.
Understand Skip Permits and Licenses
A skip permit is required if you plan to place the skip on a public highway or in a controlled parking zone. The permit is usually obtained by the skip hire company, but it’s essential to understand the process and any additional costs involved.
Here are some key things to know about skip permits:
- The permit is usually valid for a specific period, typically 7-14 days.
- The permit may require a fee, which varies depending on the local authority.
- The permit may have specific conditions, such as restrictions on the size of the skip or the location.
- Failure to obtain a permit can result in fines or penalties.
When hiring a skip, make sure to ask the skip hire company about the permit process and any additional costs involved.
Consider Access and Weight Restrictions
When hiring a skip, it’s essential to consider access and weight restrictions to ensure that the skip can be delivered and collected safely.
When hiring a skip, make sure to discuss access and weight restrictions with the skip hire company to ensure that the skip can be delivered and collected safely.
Prepare and Plan
Preparing for a hired skip involves a bit of planning, but with the right preparation, it can make your clean-up project run much more smoothly.
From choosing the right size and location to sorting your waste and scheduling a timely collection, these simple steps will ensure that your skip hire experience is hassle-free and cost-effective.
It’s also crucial to understand what can be put in a skip to ensure proper waste disposal.
Are you planning a big clean-up or renovation? With these tips in mind, you’re ready to hire a skip and get started on your project without any hiccups!