What are Skips and RoRos?

what are skips and roros

When it comes to waste management, skips and RoRos (Roll-On Roll-Off containers) are two commonly used tools.

Whether you’re undergoing a home renovation, a large construction project, or just need a way to handle waste at scale, both can help manage your disposal process.

But what exactly are they, and how do they differ?

Table of Contents

filled skip on side of road

What is a Skip?

A skip is a large, open-topped container used for collecting and transporting waste.

Skips come in various sizes, from small domestic models that hold a few cubic yards to much larger ones for commercial and industrial purposes.

The most common skip sizes are:

  • Mini Skips: Perfect for small household clear-outs or garden waste. They typically hold around 2-3 cubic yards.

  • Midi Skips: Slightly larger, suited for small to medium-sized projects, like a kitchen renovation. They hold about 4-5 cubic yards.

  • Builders’ Skips: These are the standard for large domestic or small commercial projects and can hold 6-8 cubic yards.

  • Maxi Skips: Designed for heavy-duty tasks, such as construction or large-scale waste removal, with capacities ranging from 10 to 18 cubic yards.

How Skips are Used: Skips are generally loaded manually, either by hand or with the help of small equipment, and can be delivered to a site and picked up by a truck when full.


They’re often seen on residential streets or construction sites, serving as temporary storage for waste and recyclables.

blue roll on roll of roro container being dropped off by truck

What is a RoRo Container?

A Roll-On Roll-Off container is a much larger waste container used primarily in commercial and industrial settings.

As the name suggests, RoRos are designed to be rolled on and off a vehicle (usually a truck), and they tend to have wheels or rollers at the base for easy loading and unloading.

These containers are typically used for large-scale projects or ongoing waste management needs.

Key Features of RoRos:

  • Capacity: RoRos have a much larger capacity than skips, ranging from 20 to 40 cubic yards or more, making them ideal for bulkier waste types like construction debris, large-scale industrial waste, or even landfill waste.

  • Design: RoRos are typically rectangular in shape and have a sturdy structure designed to handle heavier loads compared to skips. Their open tops allow for easy access, and they can be used for a variety of waste materials.

How RoRos are Used: RoRos are often used for projects that require long-term waste disposal.


Because of their large size, they are typically used in construction, demolition, and large commercial operations.


RoRos are delivered and collected by specialised trucks equipped to handle their size, making them a flexible option for large-scale waste removal.

green roll on roll off container on truck

Skips vs. RoRos: Which One Do You Need?

The choice between a skip and a RoRo container depends on the scale of your project and the type of waste you’re handling.

  • Skips are more suited for small-to-medium-sized jobs.
    If you’re cleaning out your home or renovating a small office, a skip will likely suffice.
    They’re affordable, easy to load, and come in different sizes to match your needs.

  • RoRos are ideal for larger, ongoing projects where a larger capacity is needed.
    For construction sites, industrial waste, or large commercial operations, RoRos provide an efficient solution to manage high volumes of waste.

Read more about the key differences between Skips and RoRos.

two yellow filled skips

Conclusion

Both skips and RoRos are essential tools in waste management, each serving a different need.

Understanding the differences between the two can help you choose the right container for your project, ensuring that your waste removal is efficient and cost-effective.

Whether you need a small skip for a weekend project or a large RoRo for a major construction job, these containers are vital components of a well-organised waste disposal strategy.

Get a quote with us today to see how we can help your business manage waste effectively with skips and RoRos.

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