Maxi Skip and Roll-On/Roll-Off Skip Hire Cost (12-40 Yard)
12-Yard Maxi Skip: Dimensions and Capacity
Roll-On/Roll-Off (RORO) Skips: 20-40 Yards
RORO skips are fundamentally different from standard skips. Instead of being crane-lifted, they are rolled onto a specialist lorry via a hydraulic system. This makes them far larger and requires more site access, but dramatically reduces cost per cubic yard for large volumes.
| RORO Size | Price Range | Typical Use |
|---|---|---|
| 20 Yard RORO | £400 - £550 | Medium commercial/construction |
| 25 Yard RORO | £450 - £650 | Large site clearance |
| 30 Yard RORO | £550 - £750 | Major demolition |
| 40 Yard RORO | £650 - £900 | Industrial clearance |
RORO Access Requirements
- Minimum road width: approximately 4 metres for the lorry to manoeuvre
- Level, hard-standing surface (RORO lorries cannot operate on soft ground or slopes)
- Clear overhead clearance of at least 4 metres for the lorry
- Road permit required if placed on a public road (RORO always needs a permit)
- Site survey usually required by the hire company before delivery
- Longer lead time: most RORO bookings need 2-5 working days notice
RORO vs Multiple Standard Skips: Cost Comparison
For volumes above 16-18 cubic yards, a single RORO skip typically beats multiple smaller skips on cost. The calculation below assumes Midlands average prices:
| Scenario | Volume | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|---|
| 2 x 8-yard skips | 12 cubic yards | £400-700 |
| 1 x 20-yard RORO | 20 cubic yards | £400-550 |
| 3 x 8-yard skips | 18 cubic yards | £600-1050 |
| 1 x 25-yard RORO | 25 cubic yards | £450-650 |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a roll-on roll-off (RORO) skip?
A roll-on roll-off (RORO) skip is a large open-top container, typically 20-40 cubic yards, that is rolled onto a specialist lorry using a hydraulic system. Unlike standard skips that are crane-lifted, RORO containers need to be positioned on a flat, open surface with enough room for the lorry to manoeuvre. They are primarily used for commercial and construction projects.
Is it cheaper to hire one RORO skip or two smaller skips?
For volumes above 16-18 cubic yards of waste, a single RORO skip usually works out cheaper than multiple smaller skips because you only pay one delivery and collection charge. Two 8-yard skips at £200-350 each would cost £400-700 plus two delivery charges, whereas a 20-yard RORO at £400-550 covers the same volume in one hire. However, RORO requires significant site access, which can rule it out for residential locations.
Can a maxi skip go on a residential driveway?
A 12-yard maxi skip is at the upper limit of what can fit on a standard residential driveway. At approximately 14ft x 6ft x 5ft, it requires a large driveway with good access for the delivery lorry. Most residential customers find the 8-yard large skip is more practical. RORO skips cannot be placed on residential driveways at all - they require commercial or site access.