Hiring a skip for the first time can feel a little daunting if you’ve never done it before. From choosing the right skip size to understanding where you can place it, there are a few things you’ll want to know to make your skip hire experience smooth, legal, and hassle-free.
Whether you’re clearing out your garage, renovating your home, or tidying up the garden, this guide is packed with quick, practical tips to help you get it right the first time.
What Is Skip Hire and Why Might You Need It?
Skip hire is a convenient waste management solution used for disposing of large volumes of rubbish. It’s ideal for:
- Home renovations
- Garden clearances
- Moving house
- DIY projects
- Commercial or construction waste
Instead of making multiple trips to the tip, a skip allows you to dispose of everything in one go, saving time, fuel, and hassle.
Choose the Right Skip Size
One of the most common mistakes first-time customers make is hiring the wrong skip size. Hiring a skip that’s too small can result in the need for a second skip, which costs more. Going too big means paying for unused space.
Common UK Skip Sizes:
- 4-yard skip – Great for small domestic jobs and clearances.
- 6-yard skip – Often called a “builder’s skip”, suitable for moderate renovation work.
- 8-yard skip – Ideal for larger home clear-outs or garden projects.
- 12-16 yard skip – Good for bulky waste but not suitable for heavy materials like soil or rubble.
- 20–40 yard RORO skips – Best for commercial, industrial, or long-term construction use.
Tip: Ask your skip hire company for advice on the size, they’ll have a good idea based on the type of work you’re doing.
Know What You Can and Can’t Put in a Skip
You might be surprised to learn that not everything can go into a skip. Certain items require specialist disposal due to environmental and safety regulations.
Allowed in most skips:
- Wood
- Metal
- Soil and rubble (in smaller skips)
- Green waste
- Furniture
- Plastics
- Paper and cardboard
Not allowed in standard skips:
- Asbestos
- Tyres
- Fridges and freezers
- Electrical items (TVs, computers, etc.)
- Paints, oils, and solvents
- Gas cylinders
- Plasterboard (unless separated)
If you’re unsure, always check with your skip provider before filling the skip. Placing restricted items in a skip could result in fines or additional disposal fees.
Decide Where to Put the Skip
Skip placement is something first-timers often overlook, but it’s crucial for access, safety, and legal compliance.
On private property:
- You don’t need a permit if the skip is placed on your driveway or private land.
- Make sure there’s enough space for both the skip and the delivery lorry (consider height and width clearance).
On public roads or pavements:
- You’ll need a skip permit from your local council.
- Many skip hire companies (like Williams & Williams) can arrange this for you.
- Permits typically last 7–28 days and have a small additional fee.
Tip: Always check for low trees, parked cars, or narrow lanes that might restrict access on delivery day.
Understand Hire Periods and Extensions
Most skip hire companies in the UK offer a standard hire period of 7 to 28 days, but it can vary depending on your needs.
If you think your project might take longer, ask in advance about extension fees and how to arrange a longer hire period if needed.
Tip: Don’t wait until the last minute, if you need to keep the skip longer, let your provider know in good time to avoid late fees.
Load the Skip Efficiently
Loading your skip properly can help maximise space and keep your project site safe.
Smart loading tips:
- Break down bulky items like furniture or branches to save space.
- Load flat items first (e.g. wood, doors), then heavier waste (soil, rubble), followed by lighter materials.
- Don’t overfill – The skip should not exceed the top edge (“level load only” rule).
- Overfilled skips may be refused collection due to safety and transport laws.
Plan Ahead for Delivery and Collection
To avoid delays or added costs, make sure:
- The area is clear and accessible on delivery day.
- You’re available to guide the driver if necessary.
- You know when the skip will be collected (some companies collect automatically; others wait for you to call).
Tip: If you finish early, you can usually request an earlier collection at no extra charge.
Be Aware of Additional Charges
First-time customers should ask their skip hire company about any hidden fees, including:
- Extra charges for restricted items
- Permit fees
- Overfilled skips
- Late collection or extension fees
A trustworthy provider will offer transparent pricing with no nasty surprises.
Why Choose Williams & Williams for Your First Skip Hire?
At Williams & Williams, we make first-time skip hire easy. Based in North West Wales, we offer:
- A wide range of skip sizes to suit every job
- Permit handling for skips placed on public roads
- Transparent pricing with no hidden fees
- Reliable delivery and collection
- Friendly support and expert advice
Whether you’re clearing out your garage or managing a full home renovation, our team is here to guide you every step of the way.
Don’t Be Afraid to Ask!
Skip hire doesn’t need to be complicated. The key is to plan ahead, choose the right provider, and know what to expect. A good skip hire company will be happy to answer questions, explain the process, and help you avoid common pitfalls.
Ready to Book Your First Skip?
If you’re hiring a skip for the first time, give Williams & Williams a call on 01766 810223 or email [email protected]. We’ll guide you through the process and help you get it right the first time