28 May, 2023
Written By: Josh Morris
A Guide to Skip Hire for your Home or Business Cover Photo. Small Green Images of full and empty skips around wording with the Busy Bins Logo.

A Free Guide for Choosing a Skip Hire Company for Your Home or Business 

Once again, welcome to another Busy Bins blog! Today's subject: SKIP HIRE!

We have got a guide coming your way that will revolutionise the way you think about those mighty containers of chaos! Get ready to have a skip-load of fun as we navigate through the weird world of skip hire. We will be diving into the do's and don'ts of skip selection, sharing tips on how to master the art of skip-filling and even uncovering some tales of the craziest things people have tossed into their skips. 

Trust us, this guide will give you all the knowledge of a true skip aficionado. So, buckle up, grab your hard hat, and let's jump into this skiptacular adventure! 

How do I get started?

To embark on the adventurous journey of hiring a skip, first you have to look inwards! The first step would be to understand the volume and type of waste that needs to be disposed of. By understanding this, this will help you determine the skip size you need and the type of skip that you require.

Got your details? Get browsing! Have an extensive research into local skip hire in Manchester, across Greater Manchester, or wherever you may be based across the UK. If you are in an even bigger hurry, skip hire today will do the trick.

Once you have researched you can then make a list and start to contact reputable skip hire companies, who offer the best waste management solutions. Make sure too: 

  • Look at customer reviews
  • Check their Licences and permits
  • Compare skip prices across the providers. 

It is also crucial to enquire about the duration of the skip hire, any restrictions on the types of waste accepted (heavy waste: concrete etc), the range of skips that they provide, if they carry out domestic and commercial jobs and the disposal methods that the company use for their waste clearances. 

Armed with this knowledge, you can narrow down your list to only the best skip hire and waste companies around, and giving you peace of mind that your waste will be handled correctly! Hint Hint: We are one of them!

 

Hiring a Skip Costs Images. An image of a large green skip with Busy Bins branding with a red pricing tag attached with question marks on the tag.

How can I save money when hiring a skip? 

The art of saving money, especially in this day an age, can be hard to do! Fear not though, we are going to let you in on a couple secret tricks of the trade that might just get a twinkle in your eye and an extra few coins in your pockets!

1. Compare skip hire prices: We have said it before and we will say it again, make sure to compare the local skip companies around your area.

2.  Discount codes: Have a look for any discount codes that are currently being offered by these businesses. 

3. Love thy Neighbours: Embrace the concept of teamwork and share the skip with your neighbours, you never know who maybe kicking their partner out. A great way of splitting the cost. 

If all else fails, use the resources you have available to you. Recycling centres, tip runs, charity shops, and freecycling platforms can be your allies on this quest to save both money and time. 

We hope your wallet overflows with all the pennies and pounds saved!

How much does it cost and how do I pay for the skip? 

As we know where to start when looking for a skip to hire and we now know our best option, we can look at the costs and how to pay for it. The cost of hiring a skip can vary, this can vary due to the size of the skip, the duration of the hire, your location, and the skip hire company you choose. 

Paying for the skip can vary depending on the company, but just going off our own payment methods, we currently take: Credit or Debit Card. You can easily book online today at www.busybins.co.uk/skip-hire 

When should I use a skip for waste removal? 

When the clutter gets to much and turns into that mountain of misplaced dreams, it is time to summon the skip, the titan of waste removal. 

  • Home Renovations: They can be your saviour when it comes to disposing of construction debris, broken tiles, plasterboard, timber and old fixtures.
  • Office or Business Clear-outs: This is a perfect way to get rid of the old and welcome the new. You can skip old furniture, files, equipment, and general office waste.
  • Event Clean-ups: After hosting large events such as a wedding, party or festival. Skips can handle the dreaded aftermath by collecting food containers, packaging, decorations and other waste from the gathering.
  • House Moves: If relocation a skip can help streamline your move, it is a fantastic way of decluttering and disposing of items you really don't need.
  • Garden Clearances: Tree trimmings, branches, grass clippings and soil. It is a convenient solution to keeping your garden tidy.
  • Spring Cleaning: When you embark on a thorough spring clean, a skip can assist in removing clutter, outdated appliances, unwanted furniture and other general household waste.

Skip Hire Service Alternatives

Man & Van: Man & Van removal services will generally collect anything that your heart desires (legally that is) The only issue with a Man & Van service is that some may not have a Waste Carriers Licence, so always make sure to ask for this when using this service.

Hippo Bag: Hippo Bags come in three sizes: Midi bag (Can fit a Dishwasher), a Mega bag (Can fit a Tall Fridge or Bath) and the Hippo skip bag (Bathroom or small kitchen).  

Grab Hire Wagon: A grab hire wagon can be an ideal skip alternative, if you needed some rubble concrete, earth, bricks etc removed quickly and on the same day. You can hire these on a 'wait and load' service, so that they can remove it immediately once collected.

Household Recycling Centre: Think of this like your local tip. You can take a variety of items down and they will then be processed and recycled by your local council. This is only open to households and not for any businesses or companies.

Hiring a Skip. Which Size Skip Do I need. 3 different images of 3 different sized skips. 4 Yard Skip with small icon of bin bag saying times 40 and wheel barrow saying times 20 to show an estimate of what they can hold. 8 Yard Skip with small icon of bin bag saying times 80 and wheelbarrow saying times 40 to show an estimate of what they can hold. Also includes a circle saying Most Popular Size. 12Yard Skip with small icon of bin bag saying times 120 and wheel barrow saying times 60 to show an estimate of what they can hold.

Which Size Yard Skip Do I Need? 

They say size doesn't matter...well it does in this case!

There are a wide range of skip sizes out there, so making sure that you understand how much waste you are going to need collecting is key to choosing the correct skip.

Mini Skip 2-3 yards: A small skip ideal for small projects, such as garden clearances, small renovations or disposing of household waste.

Mid Skip 4 yards: (40 bin bags of waste or 20 wheelbarrows full) Ideal for medium sized projects, which includes kitchen or bathroom renovations, clearing out a single room, or disposing of moderate amounts of household or garden waste.

Builder's skip 8 yard -10 yards: (80 bin bags of waste or 40 wheelbarrows full) These are the most popular choice and we would highly recommend. Perfect for bulky waste like construction, debris, soil and larger amounts of waste. 

Maxi Skip 12 yards: (120 bin bags of waste or 60 wheelbarrows full) Well suited for larger domestic or commercial projects such as full house clearances or large scale renovations.

Roll on Roll Off skip 20-40 yards: Typically used for commercial or industrial purposes. Suitable for large scale construction projects. 

As always, you need to consider the amount and type of waste that you need to dispose of, so that your chosen skip gives enough capacity for your needs. No pressure!

What type of skips are available? 

Open skips: This is a type of skip that has no cover or lid, allowing easy access for loading and unloading of waste materials. Ideal for: Construction, Renovation or large-scale clean up projects.

Enclosed skips: This skip has a lid on the top so that anything within the skip can be held securely. Ideal for projects with increased security, that need protection from the weather or contain potentially hazardous materials.

Drop Door skips: These have a large door at one end of the skip, which is hinged at the base. This acts as a gentle ramp allowing easy access into the skip for wheelbarrows or small machines. 

Hiring a Skip. List of Items of waste that can't go into a skip.

What can't go in a Skip? 

The forbidden fruit that must never venture into the skip! There are certain items that these skips simply cannot handle. These are: 

  • Hazardous waste: Radioactive materials.
  • Plasterboard
  • Mattresses
  • Fridges
  • Asbestos
  • Batteries
  • Electrical Appliances
  • Gas Cylinders
  • Explosive substances (leave the fireworks till November)
  • Flammable Liquids
  • Liquid waste: No paint, oil, solvents, chemicals.
  • Medical waste.
  • Tyres: 

Some of these things above can be highly dangerous, so please always consult with your local skip hire company or waste management authorities to get a more accurate list of items in your delivery areas.  

So spare the skips their perilous fate and they will reward you!

How long do you keep a skip for? 

The timelines can be tight. The clock is ticking as soon as the skip is unloaded. BUT, how long can one bask in the presence of a skip? Well, you have come to the right place to learn about the temporary waste kingdom that has landed at your property. Is it 2 weeks? A month? 1 Hour?

Well the short answer is....it all depends on the company you use. 

Generally, skip hire durations typically range from a few days to a couple of weeks. Some companies offer shorter term hires, such as 3-5 days for a smaller project. For larger projects, longer hire periods of 1-2 weeks or even longer may be available.

If you are ever lost in the world of hiring timelines and deadlines, always make sure to discuss this company providing skip hire, during the booking process. 

What's a Skip Hire Permit and do I need one? 

You will need a permit for that!

A skip hire permit is a legal requirement in certain situations when placing a skip on public property, such as a road, pavement or public parking area. The permit will ensure that the waste recycling companies skip will be positioned safely, not obstructing traffic or pedestrians and so that it meets local regulations regarding skip placement.  The responsibility for getting a permit falls on yourself when hiring the skip or the company. 

If you require a skip hire permit for any domestic skip waste, always speak with the provider, as they can point you in the right direction on where to obtain one. If you are lucky, some companies will obtain the skip permit on your behalf for a fee. They will also provide cones and lights if required.

What are the weight and height restrictions when filling a skip?

You never want your skip spilling over, bursting to the brim. Not a single inch left to squeeze in, and standing on your skip and bouncing the waste down like you are using a trampoline laced with junk and debris isn't the option. 

So we always advise:

Level Loads only. Overloading will always incur extra charges from the company.

he skip is to be filled no higher than the top of its sides & in such a manner as to prevent spillage of material, both whilst the skip is stationary & in transit. It is a legal requirement that the load is safe to transport.

Do not build up the sides to stack more waste as this will likely incur a wasted journey charge at collection until the excess waste is removed.

A load must be safe to remove so that it can be carried on the public highway, therefore it is very important the skip is not overloaded.

You have been warned.

Skip Hire Service. Side Image of the Sign Written Busy Bins Skip Hire Wagon facing to the right with the Busy Bins Character at the rear of the wagon ready to load a full skip onto the back.

Craziest things found in a skip

You would not believe the treasures that have been unearthed from these humble steel containers. Here are some of the craziest things that have been discovered: 

  • Modern Art: In 2011, in Paris, 5 pieces of Modern art were discovered. This were valued to be worth over £100 million. What a find that is.
  • WWII Posters: Whilst in New York, a UK holidaymaker once found a selection of old World War 2 posters in a roadside skip.
  • Live Artillery: This is one skip that we wouldn't like to collect. You may require a permit for that one.
  • Rare photographs: Over the years vast collections of rare photographs have been found before.
  • A caravan: In Wales a whole caravan was located in a skip, that is one way to get around!
  • A rare motorbike: It turned out to be an exclusive model from the 1930s. Only 65 had ever been made.
  • A coffin: Luckily nobody was in it.

Remember, the skip universe is full of surprises, and you never know what might waiting beneath the lid. So, next time you encounter a skip, keep your eyes peeled. You never know what may be hidden beneath the general waste. 

5 Top Tips for Filling a Skip

5 top tips for filling a skip (We have got serious rhymes)

1: Avoid Overfilling: Picture this, you have successfully tossed that old mattress to the top of the skip pile, when suddenly, an avalanche of junk buries you, your shouts can't be heard for cupboards and doors! Also, if you overfill your skip, the skip company that you hired may refuse to collect this, or they may charge you extra? So, why put yourself and your money at risk? A skip is like life, it is all about finding the perfect balance. Time to get the spirit levels out. 

2: Don't be top heavy: Now don't get dirty minded here! We mean in the skip! Remember that heavy items belong at the bottom. Don't risk creating a skip shaped black hole by defying physics and placing your fridge on top of that light cardboard box. Gravity and your skip will thank you!

3: Embrace your stacking skills: Time to channel your inner Tetris. Filling a skip is just like Tetris, except with smellier blocks. Hone in your Tetris skills and aim for a high score in skip-stacking efficiency. 

4: Check yourself: There is nothing worse then throwing items in the skip, only for you to realise you actually really needed said item, but it is too late, as it has been removed. Create a designated Check Zone before flinging your treasures into the skip abyss. Your trash might be your families treasure!

5: Divide and Conquer: Sort your items into categories before chucking them into the skip. This will make it easier to recycle or donate anything that is still in good condition. 

Follow these tips, and you will not only have a fantastic skip filling experience, but also ensure that your skip stays upright and your waste stays contained!

What happens if I fill my Skip and need a new one for more waste? 

Just like a magician pulling another rabbit from the hat, a new skip would be delivered! When you find yourself in need of a new skip, you have a few options: 

1: Reach out to your skip hire provider and let them know about your overflowing situation. They will be more then happy to arrange a swap for you. Just make sure to communicate your needs and the timeline so that they can schedule the right skip size and drop off/pick up time.

2: If you are feeling a little bit adventurous, why not get a skip relay going on? You can always opt to keep the full skip on your property temporarily while a new one is delivered. Once the new skip arrives, transfer the excess waste from the first skip into the second. It is like a 400m relay, but with skips. 

3: Double the fun: In some cases it could be more practical to assess whether you need multiple skips on site for your waste disposal. This could also make it a lot easier if you wanted to create categories for each skip, so that you know exactly what is being placed into each. 

Remember, communication is key! Be sure to inform your skip hire provider about any changes or additional skip requirements. We are to here to help you navigate the waste management journey and ensure you have the right tools for the job. 

So, fear not brave skipper! Whether it is a skip swap, relay or double skip days, there is always a solution for your ever growing pile of rubbish. 

What happens to your waste? 

Once the wagon has turned the corner and you have said your final goodbyes...where do we go from here? Well we will tell you where we go, to responsibly dispose of the contents of your skip legally. We hope!

Again, just always make sure that the company that you use have a valid waste carriers license to cover yourself for a domestic collection, and your business if a commercial collection. 

Skip Hire Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Image below of 3 Skips. With Large F on Green Skip with Large A on another Green Skip and finally another Green Skip with Large Q on.

FAQ's 

Can Skips be delivered on the weekend? 

The Skip will be delivered on the date that you select when booking online or over the phone with the company that you choose. When booking with us your leading independent waste management provider (small brag honestly). You can just use our handy calendar to select the delivery date. We offer Morning Slots (7am – 12.30pm) or Afternoon Slots (12.30pm- 6pm).

If I hide prohibited waste in the middle of the skip, will it be found?

Hidden items will always be found once the skip has been returned to the depot, or waste recycling facility as they will have to unload or sort the items in the skip for recycling purposes. Even worse, if it is a flammable item this could cause serious damage to vehicles and put lives at risk. 

So don't go breaking the law and fill your skip up safe and sound. 

Do skip hire companies help load the waste into the skip? 

When you book your skip, the skip companies will always provide the skip, but the mighty task of filling them up is up to you my friend. 

Do you need to be at home for your collection? 

For skip hire with ourselves: You do not need to be in as long as the skip is clearly accessible and has been filled correctly. You must however be contactable should we need any help or guidance to remove or access the skip.

This means there must be enough room for a lorry to manoeuvre to collect the skip with no obstructions such as parked cars.

As always check with the customer service team. 

 

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