How to Get Cheap Skip Hire in the South West
Skip hire does not have to break the bank. With a few smart choices you can save a significant amount on your skip hire in the South West. This guide covers how to get the best price, what affects the cost, and common mistakes that end up costing more.
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What Affects Skip Hire Prices?
Several factors determine how much you pay for skip hire in the South West. The skip size is the biggest factor, with prices roughly doubling as you go up each size. The type of waste matters too, as heavy waste like soil and rubble costs more to dispose of than general household waste. Location affects pricing since rural areas may have higher delivery charges. Hire duration, permit requirements, and the time of year can also influence the price. Summer and bank holiday weekends are typically busier and slightly more expensive.
Tips for Saving Money
Get at least three quotes from different companies in Bristol, Bath, Exeter, Plymouth and Swindon and compare what is included. Book the right size, as paying for a bigger skip you do not fill wastes money, but going too small means paying for a second skip. Separate your waste, as clean materials like soil, rubble or wood can often be disposed of more cheaply than mixed waste. If you can place the skip on your driveway, you save the permit cost. Book midweek delivery if possible as some companies offer lower rates. Finally, share a skip with a neighbour if you both have small clearance jobs.
Average Skip Hire Prices in the South West
As a rough guide for the South West: mini skips (2-3 yards) cost £80-£150, midi skips (4-5 yards) cost £120-£200, builders skips (6-8 yards) cost £150-£300, large skips (12-16 yards) cost £250-£450, and roll-on roll-off skips (20-40 yards) cost £300-£600+. These prices are for a standard 7-14 day hire of general mixed waste. Prices for heavy waste (soil, rubble, concrete) are typically 20-40% higher.
Hidden Costs to Watch Out For
Watch for charges that are not included in the headline price. Overweight charges apply if the skip exceeds the maximum weight for its size. Overfilling charges apply if waste is above the skip edges. Some companies charge extra for certain waste types like plasterboard, tyres or mattresses. Permit costs may or may not be included. Extended hire charges kick in if you keep the skip beyond the agreed period. Always ask for an all-inclusive quote so you know exactly what you will pay.
Alternatives to Skip Hire
If a skip seems too expensive for your needs, consider alternatives. A man-and-van rubbish removal service can be cheaper for small amounts. Council bulky waste collection is available for large household items at a lower cost. Local recycling centres (tips) are free for household waste. Grab hire is a fast alternative for loose materials like soil and rubble, where a grab lorry scoops up the waste without needing a skip on site. Compare all options before deciding.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cheapest skip I can hire?▼
The cheapest option is a mini skip (2-3 cubic yards), which typically costs £80-£150 in the South West. For very small amounts of waste, a man-and-van service may work out even cheaper.
Is it cheaper to hire a skip during the week?▼
Some companies offer lower rates for midweek delivery and collection, as weekends are their busiest time. It is worth asking when you get your quote. Even if the price is the same, midweek bookings are more likely to be available at short notice.
Can I save money by sorting my waste?▼
Yes. Separating clean materials like wood, metal, soil or rubble from mixed waste can reduce disposal costs. Some skip companies offer lower rates for single-material loads. Recyclable materials are cheaper to process than mixed waste going to landfill.
Do I get a refund if I do not fill the skip?▼
No, skip hire is charged at a flat rate regardless of how full the skip is. This is why choosing the right size is important. If you are unsure, speak to the hire company as they deal with this every day and can advise on the best size for your project.
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