Hiring a skip is one of the easiest ways to manage waste from home renovations, garden clearances, or building work, but to make the most of your skip hire, it’s essential to plan ahead. Ensuring you’ve prepared the right space, considered access for the delivery lorry, and sorted out any necessary permits can save you time, money, and hassle.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to prepare for your skip delivery, so you’re ready to go as soon as it arrives.
Why Preparing for Your Skip Delivery Matters
Skip hire might seem straightforward, but poor preparation can lead to problems such as:
- Delivery delays due to blocked access
- Extra charges for failed delivery attempts
- Fines for unpermitted skips on public land
- Safety issues for you or your neighbours
- Wasted space on your property
By getting things sorted before your skip arrives, you can avoid these issues and ensure your waste removal goes as smoothly as possible.
Step 1: Choose the Right Spot for Your Skip
The first thing to consider is where the skip will be placed. Most people choose either:
- Private property: like a driveway, garden, or construction site
- Public highway: such as a road or pavement outside your property (this needs a permit, more on that shortly)
Key things to think about:
- Is the ground flat and stable? Skips must be placed on solid ground to avoid tipping or shifting.
- Is there enough clearance? Allow for at least 3 metres of width and a few metres in height (skip lorries are big!).
- Will it block access? Avoid areas that might block garages, doors, or shared access routes.
If you’re not sure where’s best, the team at Williams & Williams is happy to advise when you book.
Step 2: Make Sure There’s Enough Space
Space is crucial, not just for the skip itself, but for the skip lorry to safely deliver and collect it.
Allow room for:
- The skip footprint: Skips vary in size, from small 4-yard skips (approx. the size of a small car) to large 8-yard or roll-on/roll-off skips (requiring much more space).
- Lorry access: The delivery lorry needs enough space to drive in, lower the skip, and drive away. This usually means a width of 3 metres and no height obstructions like low tree branches or power cables.
- Clear loading zone: Make sure nothing is blocking the space where the skip will be dropped, no parked cars, bins, bikes, or garden furniture.
If access is tight or unclear, let us know in advance. Our experienced drivers are used to working in awkward spaces, but the more we know beforehand, the better.
Step 3: Think About Permits
If your skip will be placed on public land, you’ll need a skip hire permit from your local council. This is a legal requirement and ensures that the skip placement is safe and doesn’t obstruct traffic or pedestrians.
Important permit info:
- Apply in advance: Most councils require at least 3–5 working days to issue a permit.
- Permit duration: Typically covers 1–2 weeks, but can be extended if needed.
- Cost: Varies by local authority – usually between £30 and £70.
- Williams & Williams can help: We can apply for the permit on your behalf and advise on placement, signage, and safety lighting if required.
Tip: If you’re placing the skip on your own land (e.g. a driveway), you won’t need a permit, but it’s still a good idea to double-check.
Step 4: Clear the Area Before Delivery
The day before your skip is due to arrive, take a few minutes to clear the delivery area. This helps ensure a smooth drop-off and avoids delays or additional charges.
Checklist:
- Remove any vehicles or obstructions from driveways or access points
- Fold in the wing mirrors if the skip is coming close to cars
- Move wheelie bins, bikes, garden items, or any other obstacles
- Let neighbours know if delivery may temporarily block shared access
Also, if you’re expecting rain or poor weather, make sure the ground is firm enough, waterlogged or muddy areas may cause problems for heavy vehicles.
Step 5: Prepare for Loading
Once your skip is in place, you’ll want to start filling it efficiently. Here are a few ways to get the most out of your hire period:
- Plan your waste: Load large, flat items first (doors, sheet materials), then bulkier waste.
- Break down items: Where possible, break up furniture or cut branches to save space.
- Don’t overfill: Keep waste level below the top of the skip; overfilled skips can’t legally be collected.
- Separate prohibited items: Most skips can’t take hazardous waste (e.g. asbestos, gas canisters, tyres, paints). Ask us if unsure.
What Happens If You’re Not Ready?
If we arrive and can’t deliver your skip because the area isn’t prepared or access is blocked, we may need to:
- Rearrange delivery (which may cause delays)
- Charge for a failed delivery attempt
- Reschedule at the next available time slot
This is why preparation is so important. A few minutes spent clearing the area could save hours (and pounds!) in the long run.
Common FAQs
Can I put the skip on grass or gravel?
Yes, but only if the ground is firm enough to support a heavy lorry. Soft ground or grass can be damaged or sink under the weight.
What if I live on a narrow road?
Contact us in advance. We’ll advise on access and whether a smaller skip or alternative placement is needed.
Can I move the skip myself?
No, skips must not be moved once placed. Doing so can cause damage or make the collection unsafe.
Do you provide evening or weekend delivery?
We aim to be as flexible as possible. Let us know your preferred delivery time when booking.
Trust Williams & Williams for Reliable Skip Hire
At Williams & Williams, we’ve been providing professional skip hire services across North West Wales for decades. Whether you’re in Caernarfon, Bala, Bangor, or Porthmadog, we’ll ensure a smooth and hassle-free skip delivery every time.
We handle:
- Skip permits for public land
- Advice on access and space requirements
- A wide range of skip sizes for domestic and commercial needs
- Fast, flexible delivery and collection times
- Environmentally responsible waste disposal
Ready to Book?
Give us a call on 01766 810223 or email [email protected] to book your skip or ask a question about delivery prep. We’re here to help every step of the way.
Let’s make your skip hire simple, safe, and stress-free.