5 questions you must ask before choosing a skip hire firm

You might assume that as long as your skip hire company can deliver your container when and where you need it, there’s not much else you need to know.

But the reality is that not all skip hire companies are created equal, and making the wrong choice can lead to headaches and unnecessary expenses.

To ensure you make the best decision, here are five essential questions you must ask before choosing a skip hire firm.

1. Are you a licensed waste carrier?

Using an unlicensed waste carrier is illegal and the onus is on the person contracting the provider to check they’re registered.

If you hire an unlicensed waste carrier that ends up fly-tipping your rubbish or skipping out on important paperwork, the police could soon be knocking on your door to pursue a hefty fine.

Fortunately, you can easily check whether a skip hire company is registered on the Environment Agency website (SunSkips is registered as Stowmarket Skip Hire).

2. Can you apply for a skip hire licence on my behalf?

Depending on where you plan to place the skip, you may need a permit from your local council.

Most skip hire firms can help you obtain these permits, while others only offer containers to those with private land to place the container on.

A reputable firm will guide you through the permit process and ensure all legal requirements are met.

3. What’s included in your pricing?

It’s easy to assume that the cheapest skip hire firm in town offers the best value, but low-cost waste management can actually end up costing you more in the long run.

Customer service that you can rely on, a reactive team that won’t leave you on hold, and waste management experts that can streamline your processes and offer rebates for valuable materials can ultimately bring your costs down.

Also, ask about any hidden charges for exceeding the weight limit or keeping the skip for an extended period (the price you’re quoted with SunSkips is the price you pay).

4. What type of waste can I dispose of in the skip?

Not all waste is suitable for disposal in a skip, and there may be restrictions on certain items.

Hazardous materials such as asbestos, chemicals, and electrical appliances, typically require separate disposal methods.

Make sure you understand the guidelines to avoid penalties and environmental damage.

If you use skips regularly, keep informed of changes in waste legislation, like the recent classification of soft seating as POPS waste and new potentially hazardous wood restrictions.

5. What happens to my waste after it’s collected?

A reputable skip hire firm should have a commitment to recycling.

Recycling not only reduces the impact on the environment but can lowers disposal costs.

SunSkips has sophisticated screening lines at its sites in Stowmarket, Cambridge, Haverhill and Ipswich to sort as much valuable materials for mixed waste as possible.

MORE: What does recycling become once it’s been sorted at SunSkips?

SunSkips is more than happy to take your skip hire questions, either by phone, email or via our social media channels.