At Speedy Skips we know that many people who visit us are ordering and hiring a skip for the first time,  so we have put together a simple set of Frequently Asked Questions that we think will help you with both ordering and using a skip.

Q: How do I hire a skip?

A: Simply choose the skip you require using our skip size guide then either call us on 0203 837 4983 and speak to one of our friendly operators, or enter your details                              in our online skip hire booking form.

Q: How do I know what size skip I will need?

A: The type of waste you are looking to dispose of will affect the size of skip that you should select. Materials such as brick, rubble, soil or hardcore are classed as heavy weight and as a general rule skips larger than 8 yards are NOT suitable as when filled the lorries cannot lift them.

For materials such as cardboard, metal, timber etc which are considered light weight most skip sizes will be suitable. Please see our skip size page for full details.

Q: Do I need a road permit?

A: You do not need a permit to place a skip on private property as long as you have the landowner’s permission. If the skip needs to be placed on a public site, such as on a public highway a skip permit must be applied for.

Q: Do I need to put lights on my skip?

A: If a skip is placed on the roadside cones and lights are required to ensure the safety of other road users during hours of darkness.

Q: What if I cannot get a permit for my skip?

A: If you have any problems regarding a skip hire permit we offer a wait and load service that does not require a permit. For more information, call us on 0203 837 4983

Q: When and how do I pay?

A: All skip hire orders are paid for at the time of ordering, or on delivery. You can pay online when you place your booking, or our friendly sales staff will take your payment details over the phone.

Q: I need a skip on my drive, how wide is your lorry?

A: Please make sure there is sufficient access to your property. The approximate size of the vehicle is: Width: 3 Metres (9.8 feet) Length: 7 Metres (22.9 feet) Height: 4 Metres (13.1 feet) A standard skip lorry requires a minimum 10 ft (3.3 meters) width to gain access, regardless of what skip you have ordered. 

Q: Will my drive be damaged by the skip?

A: Block paved and soft tarmac drives can be damaged when placing skips on them. Heavy skips, which require stabilising equipment may also potentially cause damage. While we will take every care to prevent damage, please be aware that once we leave the highway you agree to indemnify us for any damage that occurs whilst on your property. So they can be safely transported, all skips must be level loaded and larger skips (over 8 yards) must not contain heavy materials. If you need advice, please call our sales team who will be more than happy to help.

Q: How long is the standard skip hire period?

A: Most of our residential customers require a skip for approximately 2 weeks. This time period can be negotiated to suit your needs when ordering your skip. If you have a permit you must remember to adhere to its regulations. We also offer a wait and load service in which we arrive with your skip to be filled immediately and once it’s loaded we take it away directly (this service does not require a permit).

Q: What if I’m not finished with the skip by the pick-up day?

A: If unforeseen circumstances mean that you have not finished with the skip, you should advise the supplier as early as possible. Provided the skip has not been booked out on another job, we can usually be flexible. This also depends on the permit that your skip has, if a new permit has to be arranged, the skip may have to be removed while it is organised.

Q: How do I arrange for the skip to be collected?

A: If you do not specify a date of collection when ordering your skip, just contact us and we will guarantee a quick collection.

Q. What do your skip hire prices include?

A: Our prices are fully inclusive of delivery, collection and licensed waste disposal of your waste. There are no hidden costs.

Q: How full can I load a skip?

A: All skips must be level loaded only. This ensures that the waste remains in the skip when transported and that the skip lorry is not over its legal limit.

Q: Is there anything I cannot put into a skip?

A: No hazardous waste. This includes TV’s, monitors, fluorescent lights, pasterboards (max 10% in 1 skip), batteries, mattresses, fridges/freezers, paints, solvents, liquids/oils, food waste and animal/pet waste, fuel tanks/canisters, gas bottles, chemicals, tyres or any asbestos cannot be placed in the skip. To dispose of any of these materials you need to contact your local council. They will be able to provide you with a contact who can dispose of anything hazardous or not accepted in your skip (i.e. food waste).

Q: What happens to the waste after it has been collected?

A: The waste is taken to a local Waste Recycling Centre where it is sorted and processed to maximize the percentage of material recycled and diverted from landfill.

If you’re still uncertain or confused about what can and can’t be disposed of in your skip, or what skip you need - please don’t hesitate to contact our friendly team on 0203 837 4983 or 07983 836464 or alternatively please fill out the on-line form.