What Is a Roll-on Roll-off Skip?
A roll-on roll-off (RoRo) skip is a large, long container, typically 20 to 40 cubic yards, that is winched on and off a hook-loader lorry rather than lifted by chains.
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A roll-on roll-off skip, usually called a RoRo, is a large open-topped container used for high volumes of waste. Common sizes run from 20 to 40 cubic yards. Instead of being lifted on chains like a standard skip, a RoRo is pulled onto the back of a hook-loader lorry and rolled off at your site on its own wheels or rails.
RoRos are used on construction and demolition sites, for factory and warehouse clear-outs, and by retailers and manufacturers producing a steady flow of bulky waste. They need much more space than a standard skip, typically a long, straight, level run, and are normally placed on private land. Waste Cloud arranges RoRo skip hire through licensed suppliers across England, Scotland and Wales. Call 0333 121 1056 to discuss your site.
How a RoRo skip works
The hook-loader lorry tilts its frame, hooks onto the front of the container and slides it off onto the ground. On collection the process runs in reverse. Because the container is pulled rather than lifted, much larger volumes can be moved than with a standard skip lorry. Most RoRos are open-topped; some suppliers can provide enclosed or compactor versions where local availability allows, which suit businesses with ongoing waste.
RoRo sizes and what they hold
All sizes share a similar footprint of approximately 6.1 m by 2.4 m; the difference is mainly height. Figures are approximate and vary by supplier.
- 20-yard: approx. 15.3 m³; lower sides make it the usual choice for mixed waste with some heavier material, subject to limits.
- 25-yard: approx. 19.1 m³; mainly light, bulky waste.
- 30-yard: approx. 22.9 m³; strip-outs and large clearances.
- 35-yard: approx. 26.8 m³; high-volume light waste.
- 40-yard: approx. 30.6 m³; the largest common size, for very bulky, light material such as packaging and timber.
RoRo versus standard skips
- Volume: a 40-yard RoRo holds roughly five times as much as an 8-yard skip, reducing the number of exchanges on a busy site.
- Space: RoRos need far more room, including a long straight approach for the lorry and overhead clearance when it tips.
- Waste type: the larger sizes are for light and bulky waste; heavy waste is better in standard builders’ skips, grab lorries or tippers.
- Loading: high sides can make hand loading harder; many sites load RoRos with machinery or use the door at the rear where fitted.
Space, access and placement
Before booking, check that the lorry can reach the placement point and that there is a firm, level surface of adequate length – typically around 25–30 m in a straight line, though your supplier confirms what is needed. Look up for cables, beams and trees. Because of their size, RoRos are normally placed on private land; road placement is uncommon and depends on the council. Ground protection may be advisable on surfaces that could be damaged.
Where a RoRo is used for ongoing waste, think about where it will sit long term so it does not obstruct deliveries, fire routes or parking, and so the lorry can return easily for each exchange.
Choosing the right RoRo size
Picking a RoRo size is mainly about the weight and density of your waste, then about how often you want exchanges.
- Mixed construction waste with some rubble: the 20-yard is the usual choice, because its lower sides keep the total weight manageable. Heavy material is still subject to the supplier’s limits.
- Strip-outs and refurbishments: plasterboard-free stud walls, ceiling tiles, carpets and fixtures suit a 25 or 30-yard container.
- Packaging, cardboard and light timber: the 35 or 40-yard maximises volume per collection, which can reduce the number of exchanges needed.
- Ongoing commercial waste: consider whether an enclosed container or scheduled exchanges would be more practical than a single large open container.
If your site cannot accommodate a hook-loader, standard skips from the 16-yard size downwards need less room and can be exchanged frequently. We can advise on the balance between container size, exchange frequency and space.
Who uses RoRo skips
Typical users include construction companies, demolition contractors, manufacturers, distribution centres and retailers handling packaging. They are also used for one-off projects such as large house clearances with outbuildings, school or office refurbishments and site clearance. For ongoing needs across several locations, see multi-site skip hire.
What Is a Roll-on Roll-off Skip? – your questions answered
Can’t see your question? Call 0333 121 1056 or send us a message.
What does RoRo stand for?
Roll-on roll-off. It refers to the way the container is rolled onto and off the hook-loader lorry rather than lifted.
Can I put rubble in a RoRo skip?
Only in limited amounts and usually only in the lower-sided 20-yard size, subject to weight limits. Larger RoRos are for light, bulky waste. For heavy material, use builders’ skips, grab hire or tippers.
Can a RoRo go on the road?
It is uncommon. RoRos are normally placed on private land because of their size. Where road placement is possible at all, it depends on the council’s permit rules.
Can I have a RoRo exchanged regularly?
Yes. Exchanges can be arranged on demand or on a schedule, subject to supplier availability in your area.
How do I book one?
Tell us your site address, the waste and the access available. Call 0333 121 1056 or get a quote.
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