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7 Things to Do 20 Minutes Before Your Skip Arrives

You’ve done the research, compared the prices, and booked your skip. The project is ready to go. But in the world of logistics, the most critical window is the 20 minutes before our truck pulls up to your property.

A “failed delivery” is frustrating for you and expensive for us (resulting in wasted journey fees). To ensure a smooth “drop,” follow this 20-minute pre-arrival checklist.

1. The “Neighbor Alert”

Even if the skip is going on your private driveway, our HGV trucks are large and require a wide turning circle. If your neighbor’s car is parked directly opposite your driveway, our driver might not be able to swing the skip in. A quick “Hey, my skip is arriving in 10 minutes” allows them to move their car and keeps the neighborhood peace.
2. Clear the “Landing Zone”

It sounds obvious, but you’d be surprised how many deliveries are delayed by a stray tricycle, a wheelie bin, or a pile of loose gravel. Ensure the space where the skip will sit is completely clear. Remember: our trucks need a space roughly 10 feet wide to operate safely.

3. Lay Your Protection

If you are worried about your driveway (as we discussed in Article 5), have your plywood sheets or scaffold boards ready. Don’t wait for the driver to arrive to start hunting in the garage for wood. Lay them out exactly where you want the skip’s “feet” to land.

4. Look Up (The “Hidden” Obstacles)

Drivers focus on the ground, but the skip’s lifting arms go high into the air. Check for:
  • Low-hanging phone or power lines.

  • Overhanging tree branches.

  • Low building eaves or gutters.
    If there is an obstruction, decide on a “Plan B” spot before the driver arrives.

5. Check Your Gates

If we are delivering to a back garden or a gated commercial site, ensure the gates are pinned open. Our drivers cannot leave their vehicles idling on a main road while they wait for someone to find a key.

6. Verify the “Permit” (If applicable)

If your skip is going on the road, ensure your permit is active. While we usually handle this for you, having a printed copy or the digital reference handy can prevent issues with local traffic wardens who might happen to pass by during the drop-off.

7. Have Your Phone Handy

In 2026, our drivers use real-time GPS and communication. If they are 5 minutes away and find a road closure, they will call you. If you don’t answer, they may have to move to the next job to stay on schedule.

The Bottom Line: A little preparation saves a lot of stress. By following these steps, you ensure the skip lands exactly where you need it, allowing you to start your project immediately.