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What is a RORO Skip?
A RORO skip is a Roll on Roll off skip, a large open-topped shipping container-like waste container that has opening doors, allowing for easy entry and stacking of large amounts of waste. They come in sizes ranging from 15 yards to 40 yards and are usually charged for rental and then by tonnage.
These Roll on Roll off skips are moved on and off a flatbed lorry using specialised hooks and rollers, allowing for transporting larger and heavier loads.
These are loaded from the rear via a door, or from the top using machinery such as excavators making them suitable for construction and demolition projects or large scale domestic projects.
Clear definition in plain English
“Roll-on Roll-off” explained
Key features vs traditional skips (capacity, loading style, transport method)
RORO Skip Sizes Available
A RORO skip comes in many sizes, the suppliers on Skip Hire Comparison mostly have 20 and 40 yard skips, but some can provide RORO skips at 5 yard intervals between 15 and 40 yards, meaning there is a size suitable for every large project.
20 Yard RORO Skip
A popular choice for bulky but lighter waste, the 20 yard RORO is perfect for:
Large house clearances (furniture, appliances, bulky items)
Office or shop refurbishments
Light construction waste
Ongoing waste from long-term projects.
With lower sides for easier loading and room for up to 5 tonnes, this skip is a practical alternative to hiring multiple smaller skips. Ideal for timber, packaging, and plastics.
40 Yard RORO Skip
The largest RORO is a 40 Yard RORO Skip available, built for maximum capacity. Ideal for:
Industrial and warehouse clean-ups
Major construction and demolition waste
Large-scale retail refits
Businesses managing high volumes of waste.
It can handle up to 10 tonnes of material, though standard rates usually include 5 tonnes. Perfect when you need space and want to avoid frequent collections.
Other sizes like 15, 25 and 35 yard skips are available from some suppliers, but the 20 and 40 yard options are by far the most common and practical for most jobs.
When Should You Use a RORO Skip?
RORO skips are designed for jobs where standard skips just aren’t big enough. They’re ideal when you’re dealing with bulky waste in large volumes and need a more efficient way to manage it on site.
Best suited for:
Major construction or demolition projects
Shop refits and large-scale renovations
Office, retail or industrial clearances
Bulky, lightweight materials like timber, packaging and plastics
Long-term waste management on larger sites.
Not recommended for:
Driveways or small residential streets
Projects with limited access for large vehicles
Heavy waste types like soil or hardcore (due to weight limits).
If you’re wondering whether a RORO skip is overkill, it probably is. But if your waste is measured in tonnes rather than bin bags, it might be the perfect fit.
Access, Placement and Permit Requirements
RORO skips aren’t your standard driveway drop-off. These skips are delivered by HGVs and need a fair bit of room to manoeuvre safely. If you're thinking of booking one, here’s what you need to consider:
Access requirements:
RORO skips are delivered and collected by large lorries
You’ll need wide access, a firm surface, and space to turn
Height restrictions and overhead obstructions (like cables or trees) can be a problem
Weight can also be an issue on weaker ground or private roads
If you're unsure whether a RORO will fit, speak to your supplier before booking — they'll often ask for photos or a quick site assessment.
Placement tips:
Best suited to private land like construction sites, large driveways, yards or compounds
Not suitable for tight residential roads or small urban spaces
You’ll need a flat, stable surface with enough clearance around the skip
Skip permits:
RORO skips can’t usually be placed on public roads or pavements. They’re simply too large to meet most local council rules. If you do need to place one on public land, it’s essential to check in advance.
For more about skip permits, visit our skip permits guide
What Can Go in a RORO Skip?
RORO skips are built to handle big jobs, and that includes a wide range of waste types. They're ideal for bulky, lightweight materials, but can also take on heavier waste — within weight limits.
✅ Suitable waste types:
General commercial waste
Construction and demolition debris
Packaging, timber, plastics and furniture
Inert materials like soil, hardcore and rubble (check weight limits)
❌ Not allowed:
Hazardous materials (e.g. asbestos, chemicals, solvents)
Electricals (like fridges, TVs, computers)
Plasterboard, unless separated
Tyres, batteries, gas canisters
These restrictions apply across all skip types, but they’re especially important with RORO skips due to volume. If you’re ever unsure, it’s always best to ask first.
Check our waste types guide for a full list of what’s allowed.
RORO Skip Costs Explained
RORO skips offer excellent value for larger projects, but prices can vary depending on a few key factors.
Typical price range of a RORO Skip:
20 yard RORO skip: from around £300 to £450
40 yard RORO skip: from £450 to £700+
Prices will differ depending on your location and the type of waste being removed, so it’s always worth comparing.
What affects the cost of a RORO Skip?
Location: Urban areas and those with fewer suppliers may cost more
Waste type: Heavier or specialist waste (like plasterboard or inert materials) may carry extra charges
Hire duration: Longer hires may increase the cost, especially if it affects turnaround times
Permits: If you need to place the skip on public land (rare for RORO skips), council permits will add to the total.
Alternatives if You Don’t Have the Space
RORO skips are great for large jobs, but they’re not always practical — especially if you don’t have wide access or enough space for an HGV.
Here are some other options to consider:
Wait and Load Skip Service
Ideal if you’re working on a busy road or can’t leave a skip in place. The skip arrives, you load it quickly (often within 30–60 minutes), and it’s taken away straight after.
Man and Van Rubbish Removal
Great for awkward or restricted access areas. A team will load the waste for you, which means no need for permits, no heavy lifting, and no skip sitting outside. See our Man and Van Rubbish Removal page.
Multiple Smaller Skips
If a RORO won’t fit, booking several smaller skips across the project can still give you the capacity you need without compromising on space. Our team can arrange exchanges to ensure a seamless pickup.
Still not sure?
We’re here to help. If your project has tricky access or unclear requirements, our team can guide you to the best solution, call us on 📞 0333 335 5660.
Space issues don’t have to slow you down. There’s always a way to get your waste removed efficiently.
Is a RORO Skip Right for You?
Still weighing it up? Here’s a quick checklist to help you decide:
✅ You’re dealing with a high volume of waste
✅ You’ve got space for a large lorry to deliver and collect
✅ You want to cut down on multiple skip collections
If that sounds like your project, a RORO skip could save you time, hassle and money.
Not sure? That’s what we’re here for. We’ll help you find the right solution — no jargon, no stress.