Grab Hire FAQs
Got questions about grab hire? You’re not alone. At Premier Grab Away, we know that choosing the right waste removal option can be confusing, especially with so many different services and prices available. To help, we’ve put together this list of our most frequently asked questions about grab hire, covering everything from how it works to what it costs and what you can expect on the day.
1. What is grab hire?
Grab hire is a convenient waste removal service using a grab lorry equipped with a hydraulic arm to collect and load materials quickly. It’s ideal for removing large volumes of waste such as soil, rubble, concrete, and garden waste from domestic or commercial sites.
2. How does grab hire work?
A grab lorry arrives at your site, and the operator uses the grab arm to lift and load waste directly onto the vehicle. Once loaded, the waste is transported to an authorised recycling or disposal facility. The process is fast, efficient, and removes the need for manual loading or skip permits.
3. How much does grab hire cost?
In 2025, grab hire typically costs between £150 and £420 per load, depending on location, lorry size, and the type of waste. Prices vary, so it’s best to request a quote for an accurate figure. Premier Grab Away provides transparent, competitive pricing with no hidden extras.
4. What types of waste can be collected?
Grab lorries can collect soil, hardcore, rubble, concrete, green waste, and general construction materials. However, we cannot take hazardous items such as asbestos, chemicals, or electrical appliances. If you’re unsure whether your waste is suitable, our team can advise.
5. How much can a grab lorry carry?
An 8-wheel grab lorry can carry around 16–18 tonnes of waste, roughly equivalent to two large skips. Smaller 4- or 6-wheel lorries are also available for smaller or more restricted sites.
6. Do I need a permit for grab hire?
Usually, no permit is needed. Because grab lorries load and remove waste in a single visit, they don’t need to be left on the road like skips do. This makes grab hire a quicker and more flexible alternative.
7. How long does a grab collection take?
Most collections take between 20 and 30 minutes per load, depending on how accessible your waste is. Having waste piled and ready in advance helps speed up the process.
8. How close does the lorry need to be to the waste?
The grab arm can reach up to 6 metres from the lorry, so the waste pile should be positioned within easy reach, typically at the front of your property, driveway, or site entrance.
9. Can you mix different types of waste?
While mixed waste is accepted, it’s cheaper to keep materials separate. Clean, inert waste such as soil, bricks, or concrete costs less to process than mixed or contaminated loads.
10. Is grab hire better than skip hire?
Grab hire is often the better choice for large or heavy waste and when space or access is limited. It’s faster, usually doesn’t require a permit, and can handle greater volumes. Skip hire is more suitable for smaller or long-term jobs where waste builds up gradually.
11. How soon can you collect waste?
Premier Grab Away offers flexible scheduling, and in many cases, same-day or next-day collections are available. Booking ahead is recommended during busy periods to secure your preferred time slot.
12. What happens to the waste after collection?
All waste is taken to licensed recycling and disposal facilities. At Premier Grab Away, we recycle as much material as possible to minimise environmental impact and reduce landfill use.
13. Do you offer aggregate deliveries?
Yes, we supply and deliver a range of quality aggregates, including topsoil, sand, gravel, crushed concrete, and recycled materials, direct to your site. You can even arrange waste collection and aggregate delivery in one visit.
14. How can I get a quote?
For a fast, no-obligation quote, call 0191 406 7475. Our team will assess your requirements, recommend the right vehicle, and provide clear, upfront pricing tailored to your project.
