Updated April 2026
Looking for reliable grab lorry hire for waste removal, muck away services, or site clearance? Below are answers to the most common questions about our grab hire services, including waste types, access requirements, and why a grab lorry can be a cost-effective alternative to a skip.
What is a grab lorry?
A Grab lorry (sometimes known as a grab wagon) is a heavy goods vehicle designed to ‘grab’ and transport large volumes of waste and are often used to collect and clear bulk waste to aid large projects in the construction industry. The hydraulic grab arm and bucket allow the grab lorry to collect waste over fences, walls or inaccessible areas and efficiently transport off site. A grab lorry can also be a cheaper alternative to a skip when bulk waste collection is required or in areas where a skip cannot be easily placed.
What is a grab lorry used for?
Grab lorries are normally used commercially, rather than for domestic waste, to collect and transport large amounts of waste for disposal. The use of the hydraulic arm means waste can be grabbed from almost any location, with limited manpower requirement. Ideal waste solution for:
- Construction waste removal
- Muck away services
- Bulk soil and hardcore removal
- Bulk rubble and concrete removal
- Site clearance
What sizes are available?
There are typically three different grab lorries that we use depending on the waste or reach required, see sizes below:
| 4 Wheels | 6 Wheels | 8 Wheels | |
| Overall width (exc. mirrors) | 2.6m | 2.6m | 2.6m |
| Overall width (exc. mirrors) | 3.2m | 3.2m | 3.2m |
| Overall length | 7.8m | 8.1m | 9.1m |
| Overall height | 3.7m | 3.7m | 3.7m |
| Max grab reach from truck | Up to 5.5m | Up to 6.2m | Up to 7.6m |
| Load capacity (m3) | 6m3 | 10m3 | 13m3 |
| Load capacity (tonnes) | Up to 8 tonnes | Up to 12 tonnes | Up to 16 tonnes |
| GVW (tonnes) | 18 tonnes | 26 tonnes | 32 tonnes |
| Approx. skip equivalent | 1 skip | 2 skips | 3 skips |
What waste can go into a grab lorry?
Grab lorries can collect a wide range of non-hazardous waste including:
- Soil
- Clay
- Hardcore
- Rubble
- Bricks
- Concrete
- Topsoil
- Green waste
- General construction waste (subject to licence)
What waste cannot go in a grab lorry?
Grab lorries cannot collect hazardous or prohibited waste such as:
- Asbestos
- Batteries
- Paints and solvents
- Chemicals
- Gas cylinders
- Contaminated soil
- Medical waste
If you are unsure about any material, contact us before booking.
How much does grab lorry hire cost?
The cost of grab lorry hire depends on:
- Type of waste
- Volume of material
- Vehicle size required
- Collection location
- Access conditions
- Disposal charges
Call the team to discuss and receive a quote.
How much access does a grab lorry need?
The size of grab lorry dictates the reach capacity.
- 4 Wheel: Up to 5.5m
- 6 Wheel: Up to 6.2m
- 8 Wheel: Up to 7.6m
The hydraulic arm means waste can be grabbed in hard to reach locations such as over a fence or a wall. If the lorry can be positioned parallel to the waste, it can be lifted. For limited or restricted space, other waste solutions are available.
Where should I leave waste ready for the grab to collect?
The best place to leave waste is in an open space away from low hanging trees and cables if possible. However, a grab lorry can normally lift waste from difficult to reach locations.
Is a grab lorry cheaper than a skip?
In many cases, yes. A grab lorry can be more cost-effective than skip hire because:
- No manual loading required
- Larger waste capacity
- Faster collection times
- No skip permit needed
- Reduced labour costs
- Waste removed in one visit
For bulk waste removal, grab hire is often the better value option.
Why should I hire a grab lorry instead of a skip?
- Faster waste removal – no need for manual loading.
- Holds more waste than a standard skip.
- Ideal for sites with restricted access.
- No need for a skip permit, as grab lorries load and leave.
Site Access & Requirements
How much space does a grab lorry need?
Grab lorries require at least 3 metres width for access and 6 metres height clearance for the grab arm to operate safely.
Can a grab lorry reach over walls or fences?
Yes, the grab arm typically has a reach of 6-8 metres, allowing it to collect waste over fences, walls, and obstacles.
Do I need to be on-site during collection?
Not always. If access is clear and the waste is ready to collect, we can often complete the job without you being present. These arrangements are discussed with customer when booking.
Do I need a permit for a grab lorry?
No, unlike skips, grab lorries do not require a permit because they load and remove waste in one visit.
Tool Hire Direct Grab Hire Services
Why should I hire a grab lorry from Tool Hire Direct?
- Nationwide coverage with reliable service.
- Competitive pricing with no hidden fees.
- Quick and efficient waste removal.
- Fully licensed and compliant with UK waste regulations.
Need a grab lorry quote?
Contact Site Solutions today for fast and reliable grab lorry hire anywhere in the UK.