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RORO vs Skip Hire: Which One Should You Choose?

Rachel.J

Quick Answer: Go with the RoRo (Roll-on Roll-off) skip if you’ve got a lot of waste and space to spare. Stick with a traditional skip if your project is smaller or space tight. Let’s break it down and help you pick the right option.

When it comes to waste removal, choosing the right skip can save you time, money, and a serious headache. Whether you’re working on a home renovation, a full site clearance, or a large construction job, understanding the difference between RORO skips and traditional skips is key.

That’s why we have put together a quick guide. We’ll walk you through the pros and cons of each option so you can make the right choice for your project, your budget, and your site.

What Is a RORO Skip?

RORO stands for Roll-on Roll-off, and these skips are the biggest skips you can get. They typically start at 20 yards and go up to a huge 40 yards (think shipping container size)

Quick Comparison Between RORO and Skip Hire

Perfect for	Key benefits	Things to keep in mind
Large scale demolitions	Handles massive amounts of waste in one go so no need for multiple smaller skips	SPACE – you’ll need plenty of room on site for delivery and placement
Major commercial or construction sites	Fewer collections which means lower overall transport and collection costs	ACCESS – these skips are delivered by a large RoRo lorry (tight and narrow roads might be tricky)
High-volume waste removal	It saves time, keeping your site and efficient	PLACEMENT – the can’t be placed on public roads
Long-term building projects Domestic renovations (bathrooms, kitchens, garden clear-outs)	Fits on most driveways – And can even go on public roads with a permit.	You may need more than one skip if the project grows
Smaller construction jobs	Cost-effective for smaller jobs. You won’t pay for more space than you need.	Multiple collections can add up over time
General household waste Jobs with limited space	Flexible sizes available. Choose the size that fits your project (and budget).	Not ideal for heavy-duty waste from major construction or demolition work.

Side-by-Side Comparison: RORO vs Traditional Skip

Feature	Traditional Skips	RORO Skips
Size Range	2 to 16 cubic yards	20 to 40 cubic yards
Best For	Homes, gardens, small sites	Large sites, demolition jobs
Cost	Lower for small jobs	Lower per tonne for big waste
Placement	Driveways, roadside (permit needed)	Private land only
Delivery	Standard lorry with crane	Large RORO vehicle
Flexibility	More size options	One large container

Which One Should You Choose?

It really depends on your project size, location, and waste volume. Here’s a quick cheat sheet:

Choose a Traditional Skip if:

You’re clearing out a house, garage, or garden.
You have a small-to-medium DIY renovation.
You have limited space and need roadside delivery.
You’re on a tighter budget.

Choose a RORO Skip if:

You’re handling large volumes of heavy or bulky waste.
You’re managing a construction or commercial site.
You have the space on-site to place it.
You want to reduce the number of collections.

Extra Tips to Help You Decide

Know your waste type – ROROs are ideal for bulky waste like bricks, timber, and rubble. Traditional skips work best for general household junk.
Know your space – If access is tricky or space is tight, a traditional skip might be your only option.
You may need permits – Traditional skips can be placed on a road with a permit (which we can help you sort). ROROs, due to their size, must be placed on private land.
Budget smart – Going too small and needing a second skip can cost more than sizing up from the start. Ask us for guidance if you’re unsure.

Still Not Sure? We’re Here to Help

Our team has helped thousands of customers across the UK choose the right skip for the job. Whether you’re clearing out your loft, ripping out a kitchen, or managing a construction site, we’ll help match you with the skip that suits your project, your site, and your budget.

Book Today!