How to Prepare for Your Skip Delivery: Complete Guide
Getting a skip delivered sounds simple — and it is — but a bit of prep beforehand makes everything quicker, safer, and less stressful. Whether you’re clearing out the garage, tackling a DIY project, or sorting out garden waste, knowing what to expect can save you time and hassle.
At Medway Skip Hire Team, we speak to customers every day who aren’t sure where to place the skip, what size to go for, or what can actually go in it. That’s why we’ve put together this handy guide to help you get ready before your skip arrives.
Here’s everything you need to do to make sure your skip delivery goes without a hitch.
Choose the Right Spot For Skip Placement
Before we arrive with your skip, take a moment to think about where you’d like us to place it:
- Look for flat, stable ground – Tarmac, concrete, paving or solid gravel works best
- Your property is ideal – Using your driveway or front garden means no permits needed
- Check access is clear – Our delivery lorries need room to manoeuvre, so please move cars, bins or other obstacles the night before
- Look up! – Make sure there are no low-hanging branches, cables or signs overhead
Don’t have space on your property? Not to worry – we can sort out a council permit so we can safely place your skip on the road or verge.
Estimate the Waste Volume
Choosing the right skip size saves money and hassle. Too small, and you’ll need another. Too large, and you’re paying for unused space.
Here’s how to make a rough estimate:
- Household waste removal: A 4-yard skip size suits most small to medium jobs like garage or loft clear-outs.
- Renovations or heavy waste: An 8-yard skip size is perfect for bulky builders’ waste like rubble, bricks, and soil.
- Garden work: Soil, turf, branches, and green waste usually fill a 6-yard skip size.
Not sure what size you need? Give us a ring! Tell us what you’re getting rid of, and we’ll recommend the perfect skip for your project.
Organise the Waste in Advance
Having your waste organised before we deliver your skip makes everything easier:
- Group similar items together – Keep wood, metal, garden waste and general rubbish in separate piles
- Take furniture apart – Dismantling beds, tables and shelves saves loads of space
- Bag up small bits – Use strong bin bags for lightweight or loose rubbish
- Set prohibited items aside – If you’re not sure what’s allowed, just ask us!
A bit of planning now will make your skip-filling much more efficient later.
Protecting Your Property
We always take great care when delivering skips, but if you’re concerned about delicate surfaces, you might want to add some extra protection:
- Plywood boards – Great for spreading weight and protecting block paving
- Tarpaulin or sheeting – Helps keep oil or debris off your driveway
- Old carpet pieces – A simple way to protect your surface
Worried about your driveway or patio? Just let us know, and we’ll advise you on the best approach.
How Much Space is Required to Place a Skip?
It’s not just about the skip itself – our delivery lorries need room to work safely:
- Skip dimensions – A standard 6–8 yard skip is roughly 2.5m long and 1.5–1.8m wide
- Delivery clearance – We need about 3m width and 4m height for the lorry arm
- Turning space – Narrow streets or tight corners might need special planning
Not sure if your space is suitable? Send us a photo or two, and we’ll check it for you.
Delivery Day Checklist
Here’s how to ensure everything goes smoothly when we arrive:
- Clear the area completely of vehicles, bins, toys, etc.
- Keep children and pets safely indoors during delivery
- Make sure your phone is handy in case we need to call you
- Have your permit confirmation ready (if your skip will be on the road)
The actual delivery only takes a few minutes when everything’s ready!
Filling Your Skip Properly
Once your skip is in place, there’s a knack to filling it efficiently:
- Start with flat items at the bottom – old doors, worktops, panels
- Break down bulky items – smash up old furniture, flatten boxes
- Mix heavy and light waste to keep the skip balanced
- Keep it level – we can’t legally collect overloaded skips
Need more time than expected? Just give us a call – we offer flexible hire periods and extensions.
Know What Can and Can’t Go in Your Skip
We accept most types of waste, but there are some restrictions we have to follow:
✅ Yes Please:
- Old furniture, carpets and wood
- Garden waste, soil, turf and branches
- Bricks, concrete, tiles and rubble
Metals, plastics and general household waste
🚫 No Thanks:
- Fridges, freezers, TVs and electronics
- Paint, solvents, oils and chemicals
- Gas bottles or cylinders
- Asbestos or hazardous materials
- Tyres, batteries or medical waste
Not sure about something? Just ask – we’re always happy to help!
Book Early for Best Results
Skips can get booked up quickly, especially during spring and summer. For the best experience:
- Reserve your skip as early as possible
- Allow extra time if you need a council permit
- Call us for friendly advice on sizes and waste types
Frequently Asked Questions About Skip Delivery and Hire
Do I need to be present when the skip is delivered?
No, you don’t need to be present as long as there’s clear access and the skip is placed in a designated spot. However, if the placement is specific or on public land, being there can help ensure everything goes smoothly.
Can skips be placed on the road?
Yes, but a council permit is required. Your skip hire provider can usually arrange this for you.
How much space is needed for skip delivery?
Ensure a clear area of at least 3 meters in width and 4 meters in height for the delivery lorry.
How do I choose the right skip size?
Estimate your waste volume: a 4-yard skip is suitable for small to medium jobs, an 8-yard skip for renovations or heavy waste, and a 6-yard skip for garden work.
Can I overfill my skip?
No. Overfilled skips are unsafe and may not be collected. Ensure the waste is level with the skip’s rim.
How much notice do I need to give for skip hire?
It’s best to give at least 24 hours’ notice. Many providers offer same-day or next-day delivery, but availability can vary.
How long can I keep a skip?
Standard hire periods are between 7 to 14 days. Extended hire periods are available upon request, potentially at an additional cost.
Ready to Book Your Skip?
We’re your local, reliable skip hire specialists in Rochester, Medway, and we’re here to make your waste removal completely hassle-free. Whether this is your first skip or you’re a regular customer, we’ll guide you through the whole process.
Give us a call today at 0800 260 5989 or book online – we cover skip hire across the local area with friendly service and clear, upfront pricing. No surprises, no stress – just efficient waste removal when you need it.
