When people first see a Roll On Roll Off skip, their reaction is usually the same: That’s bigger than I expected! Compared to a standard skip, a Roll On Roll Off container (often shortened to RORO) is indeed noticeably larger; as it’s designed to handle significantly higher volumes of waste. That’s why they’re commonly found on construction sites, commercial premises, agricultural locations and large-scale clearance projects where a standard skip simply wouldn’t be practical.
However, size alone doesn’t tell the whole story and choosing the right waste solution isn’t simply a case of opting for the biggest container available. The type of waste being produced, the amount of space available on-site and the duration of a project can all influence whether a RORO is the most suitable option.
At Morley Skips we supply RORO containers across Essex and Suffolk for a wide range of projects. In this guide, we’ll explain how much they can hold and why they can often be a more efficient solution than hiring multiple standard-sized skips.
Unlike traditional skips, which are typically lifted onto a lorry; Roll On Roll Off containers are delivered and collected using a dedicated hook-lift vehicle. The container is rolled on and off the back of the lorry using a hydraulic system, which is where the name RORO (Roll On Roll Off) comes from.

The simple answer is: a lot!
Our 20 yard container can hold up to 15 tonnes of waste.
This size is often suitable for:
Our largest option is the 40 yard Roll On Roll Off container. This size, which also has a maximum weight limit of 15 tonnes, is particularly useful for lighter, bulkier materials that take up significant space. Projects generating large volumes of packaging, timber, plastics or general commercial waste often benefit from the additional capacity.
One area that sometimes causes confusion is the difference between volume and weight and why a larger container doesn’t automatically mean that it can carry unlimited weight. It’s important to note here that a container filled with light packaging materials will behave very differently from one filled with rubble or soil. This is why discussing your waste type with the Morley Skips team is always worthwhile as we can advise on the most practical option based on how much waste you have; but also, what that waste consists of.
Most domestic projects can be handled using traditional skip hire but there comes a point where repeatedly exchanging skips becomes less efficient than using a larger container. If your project involves one of more of the following, then a Roll On Roll Off container will often be the more practical choice:
One of the biggest advantages of working with Morley Skips is flexibility in terms of services. Many larger projects use a combination of waste solutions rather than relying on one container alone. For example, grab hire can be used at the beginning of a project to clear large volumes of soil or demolition materials, then a Roll On Roll Off container can remain on-site for ongoing waste throughout the build.
Standard skips can also be useful for smaller waste streams that need to be kept separate, whilst skip bags can provide a practical solution for maintenance teams working in specific areas of a site.
Using the right service at the right stage can often be more efficient than trying to make one solution do everything.
Whilst Roll On Roll Off containers are suitable for many types of waste; some materials require separate handling and disposal. Large-scale projects often uncover or generate hazardous waste that cannot simply be placed into a general waste container. This can include materials such as asbestos, contaminated soil, paint tins, batteries, gas canisters, tyres, Japanese Knotweed and upholstered furniture.
At Morley Skips we are fully-licensed to handle hazardous waste and can help customers to manage these materials alongside their general waste requirements. It’s important that you speak with the team about this prior to filling your container, as a specially-adapted container will need to be issued to accommodate hazardous materials.
For more than 25 years, Morley Skips has supported commercial, domestic, agricultural and construction projects across Essex and Suffolk.
Customers choose our Roll On Roll Off service because:
We understand that the options can be overwhelming, which is why our team are more than happy to help you find the most appropriate waste solution. Find out more by calling Morley Skips on 01621 815 287 to discuss your requirements.