What is a Grab Lorry?
Grab lorries are specially 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 allows 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.
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.
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 volume can a grab lorry carry?
Grab lorries can carry up to 16 tonnes of waste, the equivalent of two builders skips.
What waste can go into a Grab lorry?
Inert waste such as soil, aggregates, concrete and topsoil can be collected in grab lorries. Some grab lorry operators are licenced to carry general waste too, which can make them an ideal choice for fly-tipped waste. Hazardous wastes such as batteries or asbestos or contaminated soil is not permitted.
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.
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.
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.
Are there any materials a grab lorry cannot take?
Yes, hazardous waste such as asbestos, paint, chemicals, or gas cylinders. Please contact us if you’re unsure about any materials.
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 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.
Site Solutions FM Limited Grab Hire Services
Why should I hire a grab lorry from Site Solutions?
- Nationwide coverage with reliable service.
- Competitive pricing with no hidden fees.
- Quick and efficient waste removal.
- Fully licensed and compliant with UK waste regulations.
