If you’ve never hired a skip before, it can be intimidating. There are many things to consider that you should not forget. What is a cubic yard? What is a skip permit? 

There will be many questions. That is why we created this article for skip-hire beginners. We have answered some of our customers’ most frequently asked questions and concerns in this article. 

What can I not put in a skip of?

• Asbestos 
• Batteries 
• Medical waste, including syringes or bio-hazardous products 
• Equipment and appliances that use electricity 
• Paint cans/paint 
• Fridges, freezers, and air conditioning units 
• Gas bottles and gas canisters 
• Televisions 
• Tyres 
• Oil, petrol and diesel 
• Plasterboard 
• Liquids 
• Hazardous and toxic materials 
• Fluorescent tubes 

It is easy to throw these items in the skip and not think twice about it, but you could be charged for them and have them returned to you. 

If your skip is located in a public area, it is essential to keep an eye on it. People can throw their rubbish in your skip. You will be held responsible for the contents of your skip. 

Which size skip do you need?

No one, whether they are new or returning customers, would expect to know the size of skip they require. Every customer is different, so we will help you choose the correct size skip for your needs. 

The size of your property and the amount you have to dump will determine the size of the skip you need. A small skip will mean you might have to hire another skip or pay additional fees. However, you won’t want a skip with too much space. 

Our team is the best way to ensure you don’t hire the wrong skip. Our team is available to give you accurate advice and guide you through the entire process. You can reach us at 0121 7163800 to speak with one of our friendly staff members. 

What is the cost of hiring a skip?

Skips are not available at a single price. Many factors can affect the price of a skip. The skip will cost more if it is larger. Another factor that will affect the price of a skip is the location. 

However, we can quickly determine the cost of the skip you require and the costs in your local area. For a quick quote, call us to get a quote.

What is a skip permit? Do I need one?

Sometimes, you might not have enough space or a driveway to store a skip. In these cases, you will need a permit from the council. This is also known as an “on-road skip” and can take up to a few days to arrange. 

Skip permits can be obtained from your local council. However, we can arrange this so you don’t have to figure it out. A parking suspension is required if the vehicle is in a restricted parking area, such as a single yellow line or a pay-and-display bay. 

You will need to place your skip on a highway. We are happy to arrange a permit! 

What safety rules should you be following?

There are some safety guidelines that you should follow when you hire a skip. Your local council may require you to cover your skip and mark its location with cones or lights, depending on where it is. Don’t worry; your skip company will usually be able to tell you what you need.  

Are skip companies able to load the skip?

Skip hire does not include labour. The skip provider will only be responsible for delivery and collection. We can discuss the possibility of hiring a man and van to load your waste. If you hire a skip, you must load your rubbish and bags in the skip by yourself unless you have an alternative. 

What length of time can I rent a skip?

The cost of hiring a skip usually covers a two-week period. However, you can also hire a skip for a shorter or longer time. The skip company can help you decide when the skip will be delivered and collected. Your skip company should know at least a few days before you want it organised, so they have enough time to make arrangements. 

You may need to hire a skip longer than you initially thought. Sometimes you will be charged more; other times, they might throw it in at no extra cost. 

What can you put into your skip?

Skip hire can have weight restrictions, but this is not usually an issue with domestic skip hire. This question is more relevant to those who hire a skip to dispose of commercial or construction waste. Heavy waste, such as bricks, soil and rubble, must be disposed of according to the skip hired. 

Ask your advisor about the weight restrictions for skips you’re considering hiring. 

What does it mean to be level loaded?

You will hear the term ‘level loaded’ when hiring a skip. This is used to describe the area in which waste cannot exceed the skip’s limit. You may not be allowed to collect your skip if it exceeds this height. The skip driver may also ask you to remove any waste left behind. 

It is essential to follow the level-loaded rule. Also, ensure you don’t fill this line with too much. Overloading skips can cause injury or damage to others and make them unsafe to transport. 

How to protect your driveway?

Skips are heavy metal boxes that can damage driveways like soft tarmac, block pavers or resin. This can be avoided by using different methods. We recommend that you place large planks of timber or scaffolding planks on the ground to allow us to rest the skip. 

Remember that the lorry will be heavier when it arrives to pick up your full skip. The pressure can also damage driveways. Talk to your skip provider if you have concerns about driveway damage. They will be able to advise you on how to protect your driveway best.