RoRo Containers Explained: When Do You Need One?

Roll-on roll-off containers are designed for projects that produce large volumes of waste. They are commonly used on construction sites, demolition projects, and long-term commercial works.

What Is a RoRo Container?

A RoRo container is a large open container delivered and collected using a specialist lorry. Instead of being lifted like a standard skip, it is rolled on and off the vehicle.

They are built to handle both high volumes and heavy materials, making them suitable for ongoing or more intensive jobs.

For example, on a demolition project where large amounts of rubble are produced quickly, a RoRo container allows waste to be removed efficiently without needing frequent skip exchanges.

When Should You Use a RoRo Container?

A RoRo container may be the right option if:

• You are producing a large amount of waste over a short period
• You need fewer collections to keep a site running efficiently
• Your project involves heavy materials such as rubble, soil, or concrete
• You are working on a long-term or multi-phase project
• Space allows for larger vehicle access

They are often used on building sites, industrial premises, commercial refurbishments and large clear-outs.

For example, during a house renovation, a skip may be suitable at the start, but as waste builds up, switching to a RoRo container can reduce downtime and the need for multiple collections.

RoRo vs Skip: Quick Guide

• Skip – better for smaller jobs, limited space, short-term use
• RoRo container – better for high volumes, ongoing waste and larger sites

If waste is being produced faster than it can be removed with skips, a RoRo container is usually the more practical option.

What Sizes Are Available?

RoRo containers come in several sizes, depending on the type and volume of waste:

15 yard – suitable for heavy materials

20 yard – general high-volume waste

40 yard – large, lightweight waste streams

Choosing the right size is important. Larger containers hold more volume but have weight limits, so they are not always suitable for heavy materials. Using the correct size helps avoid overloading and unnecessary collections.

What Can Go in a RoRo Container?

RoRo containers can be used for many of the same waste types as skips, including:

• Construction and demolition waste
• Hardcore, rubble, and concrete
• Timber and wood waste
• Mixed commercial waste

Some projects separate waste into single streams (such as wood or hardcore) as this can be more efficient and easier to manage. As with skips, certain materials require specialist disposal and should be arranged in advance and may come with an extra charge.

Access and Site Considerations

Before hiring a RoRo container, it is important to check site access. These containers require a large vehicle for delivery and collection, along with enough space for safe manoeuvring, including clear access for a large lorry, adequate turning space, and firm, level ground to place the container securely.

Narrow roads, restricted access or soft ground can affect whether a RoRo container is suitable. In these cases, a skip or alternative solution may be more appropriate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When using a RoRo container, a few common issues can lead to delays if not considered early on. These include choosing a container that is too large for heavy waste, not allowing enough space for delivery and collection, mixing restricted or unsuitable materials, and underestimating how quickly waste can build up on site. Taking the time to plan ahead and assess these factors can help keep projects running smoothly and avoid unnecessary disruption.

Need Advice?

If you’re unsure whether a RoRo container is right for your project, our team can help assess your waste type, volume, and site access before delivery.

Getting the right container in place from the start helps keep projects running smoothly and avoids unnecessary delays.