How Much can a Grab Lorry Take?

If you’re planning a construction project, garden renovation, or site clearance, hiring a grab lorry can be an efficient way to manage waste removal. However, one crucial question remains: how much can a grab lorry take? In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about grab lorry capacity, including weight limits, volume, and types of waste they can handle.

What is a Grab Lorry?

A grab lorry is a large vehicle equipped with a hydraulic arm (or "grabber") that can lift and remove waste materials quickly and efficiently. Grab lorries are commonly used in the UK for commercial and residential projects where large volumes of waste need to be cleared without the hassle of skip permits or prolonged on-site storage.

How Much Waste Can a Grab Lorry Take?

Volume Capacity

The typical grab lorry can carry approximately 8 to 16 cubic metres of waste, depending on the size of the vehicle. This is roughly the equivalent of 2 to 3 skip loads, making grab lorries a cost-effective option for bulk waste removal.

Weight Limits

In terms of weight, grab lorries can take up to 16 tonnes of material. However, this limit may vary slightly depending on the type of lorry and the nature of the waste being collected. For example:

• Soil and Hardcore: These dense materials can quickly reach the weight limit, even if the lorry isn’t completely full by volume.

• Green Waste: Garden waste, such as branches and grass cuttings, is lighter and may allow you to fill the lorry closer to its maximum volume.

Types of Waste a Grab Lorry Can Handle

Grab lorries are versatile and can collect a wide range of materials, including:

• Inert Waste: Soil, rubble, bricks, and hardcore.

• Green Waste: Grass cuttings, branches, and tree stumps.

• General Mixed Waste: Non-hazardous construction or domestic waste.

However, most grab lorry providers in the UK do not accept hazardous materials, such as asbestos, chemicals, or medical waste. Always check with your provider if you’re unsure about your specific waste type.

Benefits of Using a Grab Lorry

1. Large Capacity: With the ability to remove up to 16 tonnes of waste, grab lorries are perfect for large-scale projects.

2. Fast and Efficient: The hydraulic grab arm speeds up waste removal compared to traditional methods like skips.

3. Flexible Access: Grab lorries can collect waste from hard-to-reach areas, over fences, or directly from piles.

4. Cost-Effective: Because of their high capacity, you may need fewer collections compared to hiring multiple skips.

Is a Grab Lorry Right for Your Project?

Choosing a grab lorry depends on your specific project needs. If you’re dealing with large quantities of heavy waste, such as soil or rubble, a grab lorry is likely the most practical option. They’re also ideal for situations where skips are not feasible due to space constraints or permit issues.

Final Thoughts

In summary, the answer to "how much can a grab lorry take" depends on its size and the type of waste being removed. Typically, grab lorries in the UK can handle up to 16 cubic metres and 16 tonnes of material, making them an excellent choice for efficient waste clearance.

For your next project, consider hiring a grab lorry to save time, reduce hassle, and ensure a smooth waste management process. Always consult with your provider to confirm your load meets their specifications and legal limits.

For efficient waste removal in the UK, a grab lorry is hard to beat. Ready to book one? Book your grab hire with JustHire!