Getting a skip hire company over the Christmas period
TL;DR: Skip hire during Christmas gets busy and expensive. Book early, expect higher prices and longer wait times, and check if your skip company operates over the holidays. Plan ahead and confirm collections before the festive period arrives.
Introduction
The Christmas period brings chaos to British homes. Decorations go up, parties happen, and waste piles accumulate. You might need a skip hire company to tackle the mess. But here’s the thing: Christmas skip hire isn’t like ordering one in March. Companies get hammered with requests. Prices jump up. Availability shrinks fast. This guide explains what you need to know about getting a skip hire company over Christmas. We’ll cover booking times, costs, and practical tips to make the process smooth.
When Should You Book a Skip for Christmas?
What’s the best time to arrange skip hire before Christmas?
Book your skip at least two to three weeks before Christmas Day. Earlier is better if you can manage it. Many companies stop taking new bookings by mid-December. They’re already fully scheduled with existing customers.
November is the safest month to book. You’ll have better choice of delivery dates and times. You won’t pay premium prices either. December bookings attract surcharges of 15-25% in most areas. If you wait until the week before Christmas, you might find no skips available at all.
Why Do Skip Hire Prices Rise During Christmas?
How much extra does skip hire cost at Christmas time?
Expect to pay 10-30% more for skip hire in December compared to other months. A standard 8-cubic-yard skip might cost £150-200 normally. During Christmas, the same skip could cost £180-250.
This happens because demand explodes. Households clear out clutter before new Year’s resolutions kick in. Businesses close for two weeks and want the site tidy. Skip companies have limited vehicles and staff, so they charge more. They’re also dealing with holiday closures themselves. Staff take time off, reducing available drivers and equipment. It’s simple supply and demand economics.
Will Your Skip Company Actually Operate Over Christmas?
Do skip hire companies work between Christmas and New Year?
Most skip companies don’t operate on Christmas Day, Boxing Day, or New Year’s Day. Some close entirely from 23rd December to 2nd January. This varies by company and location.
Always check your chosen skip hire company’s holiday schedule. Ring them directly or check their website. Don’t assume they’re open. If you need your skip collected before Christmas, book collection for 20th-22nd December at the latest. If you can wait, arrange collection for 2nd-3rd January onwards. This gives you breathing room and guarantees availability.
What Should You Check Before Booking?
What questions should you ask a skip hire company at Christmas?
Ask these four things before confirming your booking:
First, confirm they’re operating on your chosen dates. Second, check if there’s a Christmas surcharge and how much it is. Third, ask about collection delays. They might be two or three days later than normal. Fourth, understand their cancellation policy. Holiday periods often have stricter terms.
Also ask about access. If your skip’s on the street, you need council permission. Council offices close during Christmas, so apply early. Find out if your skip company needs this sorted before delivery.
Top Tips for Christmas Skip Hire Success
Book with at least two weeks’ notice. Contact the company directly by phone, not online. Email gets buried during busy periods. Confirm your booking in writing once it’s arranged. Take photos of your skip before and after use. This protects you if there are disputes about contents.
Keep your skip accessible. Don’t block it with cars or boxes. This slows down collection. Have your payment method ready. Some companies won’t collect if payment hasn’t cleared.
Conclusion
Getting skip hire over Christmas needs planning. Start early in November. Contact companies by phone. Confirm everything in writing. Accept that prices will be higher and wait times longer. It’s worth booking ahead to avoid the January rush and disappointment. Don’t leave it until mid-December hoping for last-minute availability. Find a skip hire company near you by searching our free UK directory. They’ll help you manage Christmas clutter smoothly.
FAQ
Can I get a skip delivered on Christmas Day?
No. No skip hire companies operate on Christmas Day. Most also close Boxing Day and New Year’s Day.
Do I need council permission for a skip on the street?
Yes, you need a skip permit from your local council. Apply early as offices close during holidays.
How long can I keep a skip at Christmas?
Most companies offer three to seven-day rental periods. Extended hire over the holidays costs significantly more.
What happens if I miss my collection date?
Ring your skip company immediately. Most charge daily rates for missed collections. This increases costs quickly.
Are there any restrictions on what I can put in a skip?
Yes. Hazardous materials, fridges, freezers, and asbestos are banned. Confirm the rules with your company before filling it.