Skip Hire vs Grab Hire

When it comes to disposing of large quantities of waste, skip hire and grab hire are two of the most popular options. Both methods have their advantages and disadvantages, and choosing between the two can be difficult. In this article, we will explore the differences between skip hire and grab hire to help you make an informed decision.

Skip Hire

Skip hire involves renting a large container that can be filled with waste and then taken away for disposal. General Hire periods range from 1 week to 2 weeks. Skips come in various sizes, ranging from 2 to 16 cubic yards, making them suitable for a wide range of projects. They are ideal for disposing of construction waste, garden waste, and household waste. 

Advantages of Skip Hire

• Convenience, the skip is delivered to your location, on a date you have chosen and then collected when you have filled the skip.

• Skip hire can be very cost-effective as you are charged for the size of skip not the weight of waste put in the skip.

• Skips come in a range of sizes, 2-16 yard, so skip hire can be very versatile and you can find a skip for any task you may have.

• You can dispose of a large variety of waste materials with skip hire. From soil and garden waste to plastic and cardboard. Skip hire gives you flexibility with the waste types you can dispose of.

 Disadvantages of Skip Hire

However, skip hire does have some disadvantages. 

• Skips can be quite large and take up a lot of space on your property. This can be problematic if you have limited space or live in a built-up area. 

• If you do not have a driveway you will need to place the skip on a public road. This will come at an extra charge as a road permit will be required from the local council. 

Grab Hire

Grab hire involves the use of a lorry with a hydraulic arm that can pick up and remove waste from your property. The waste is loaded onto the lorry and taken away for disposal. Grab hire is ideal for disposing of heavy or bulky waste, such as soil, concrete, and bricks.

Advantages of Grab Hire

• Flexibility, the hydraulic arm can reach over walls and fences, allowing it to access areas that are difficult to reach with a skip.

• Grab hire can be a quicker option than skip hire, as the waste is loaded directly onto the lorry rather than being placed into a skip.

• Grab hire does not take up any space, the grab lorry arrives collects the waste and drives away. You do not need extra space like you would for skip hire. 

Disadvantages of Grab Hire

• Grab hire can be more expensive than skip hire, particularly for smaller projects. The price is usually based on the weight of the waste, so if you only have a small amount of waste, it may be cheaper to use a skip.

• Access is required. The grab lorry needs access for its grab arm. If there is anything blocking the hydraulic arm then a grab lorry cannot collect waste. Things that could block access could be low hanging wires and tree branches.

• Grab Lorries can be noisy and disruptive, in residential areas especially. They need some time to collect the waste from site so could be annoying for neighbours. 

Summary: Skip Hire vs Grab Hire

Ultimately, the decision between skip hire and grab hire will depend on your individual needs and circumstances. If you have a large amount of waste to dispose of and you need something over a long period skip hire would be your best option. For quick waste removal than grab hire may be the service you require.