This guide will walk you through the most common hidden fees in skip hire, why they happen, and how to avoid them.

Why Skip Hire Prices Aren’t Always What They Seem

Skip hire companies often advertise headline prices that look great, but the final bill can be higher due to extras you didn’t expect. These unexpected skip hire costs usually come down to:

• Local council permit charges

• Extra fees for overweight skips

• Restrictions on certain waste types

• Charges for wasted journeys if access isn’t clear

By knowing what to look out for, you can budget properly and avoid nasty surprises

The Most Common Hidden Fees in Skip Hire

1. Skip Permits and Licensing

If your skip needs to be placed on a public road, you’ll need a skip permit from your local council. Prices vary from £15 to £60 depending on your area. Some companies include this in the quote, but many don’t. Always check before booking.
👉 Read our full guide on skip permits.

2. Overfilled or Overweight Skips

Skips must not be filled past the “level load” line. If you overfill, the driver may refuse collection or you could face an additional charge. Similarly, heavy materials like soil, rubble, or plasterboard can push your skip over its weight allowance, leading to extra fees.

3. Restricted and Hazardous Items

Items such as fridges, tyres, paint, asbestos, and upholstered furniture with POPs cannot go in a standard skip. If you put them in, you risk extra disposal charges or collection refusal.
👉 See our full list of what you can’t put in a skip.

4. Extended Hire Periods

Most standard hire periods are 7–14 days. Keep the skip longer without arranging it in advance and you may face daily or weekly extension charges.

5. Wasted Journey Fees

If the lorry can’t deliver or collect because the skip area isn’t clear or accessible, you may be charged for a wasted journey. This is one of the most common extra charges for skip hire.

How to Avoid Unexpected Skip Hire Costs

The best way to protect yourself from hidden costs is to plan ahead:

• Choose the right size: Avoid overfilling by booking the right skip for your job. Use our skip sizes guide for help.

• Check permit requirements: If you don’t have private land, factor in the permit fee.

• Know what can’t go in: Double-check restricted items to avoid extra charges.

• Clear the space for delivery/collection: Make sure the lorry has easy access.

At Skip Hire Comparison, we make it clear upfront what’s included in the price so you can book with confidence.

Final Thoughts

Skip hire is still one of the most efficient ways to deal with waste, but hidden costs in skip hire prices can catch you out if you’re not careful. By understanding the most common fees and choosing a transparent provider, you can keep your project on budget.

Use Skip Hire Comparison to get clear, upfront quotes and avoid the stress of unexpected charges.