A step-by-step guide to hiring a skip – from enquiry to return
When deciding to hire a container or containers, the question often arises as to how the process works: how long it takes to sort out the paperwork, what you need to prepare yourself, and what the supplier will do. This article guides you through the entire process – from sending an enquiry to returning the unit – and explains what is the customer’s responsibility and what is the rental company’s responsibility at every stage of renting modular containers (office, staff facilities, sanitary, storage), but not waste containers, with which the term ‘container hire’ is often confused.
How does the process of hiring a skip work? The short answer
The rental process involves several stages: enquiry and consultation, quotation and contract, site preparation, delivery and installation, handover, operation with maintenance throughout the rental period, and dismantling and return. Most of these stages are carried out by the supplier – the client is mainly responsible for preparing the site and reporting any requirements, such as repairs or the delivery of an additional module. The total time depends on the availability of modules and the preparation of the site; it can be short if the site is ready, or longer if the configuration is complex.
At Algeco, this process encompasses identifying requirements, design and quotation, signing the contract, preparing and transporting the modules, assembly and – where necessary – fitting out and furnishing. This ensures that rental, transport, assembly and maintenance are all handled by a single supplier.
Steps 1–3: enquiry, consultation, quotation and contract
The more information you include in your enquiry, the quicker and more accurate our quote will be. Before sending your enquiry, it is worth preparing the following:
- The location and address, and whether the site is accessible to a lorry with a hydraulic loading platform or a crane.
- The intended use and the number of people who will be using the modules.
- The planned rental period.
- Access to utilities: electricity, water and waste water disposal.
- Desired fittings (air conditioning, furniture, IT network, sanitary facilities).
The quotation specifies the configuration, scope of services and terms of hire, whilst the contract sets out the duration, notice periods, insurance and liability for damage. It is worth reading these terms and conditions before signing, as they will resolve any subsequent disputes.
Step 4: How to prepare the site for the skip
Before delivery, the site must be ready for unloading and positioning the modules. Access for the lorry, a level and load-bearing surface, and space for manoeuvring and unloading are required. Utilities must be in place or plans for their connection must be provided.
The selection of the ground and foundations is described in the post ground for the container, whilst the power requirements and supply method are covered in a separate article in this series on electricity in the container. It is easier to plan the layout of the modules on the site once you know their dimensions.
The table below sets out the division of responsibilities between the customer and the supplier.
|
Task |
Customer |
Algeco |
|
Preparing and levelling the sub-base |
yes (or outsourced to a supplier) |
optional, subject to agreement |
|
Provision of utility connections |
yes |
- |
|
Delivery and unloading of modules |
- |
yes |
|
Assembly and connection of modules |
- |
yes |
|
Connecting the system |
as agreed (qualified professional) |
as agreed |
|
Reporting a fault whilst the property is being let |
reports |
carries out |
|
Liability for damage |
as agreed |
as agreed |
Step 7: Maintenance during the tenancy – what it covers and how to request it
Service during the lease period comprises technical support and maintenance of the modules throughout the term of the contract. At Algeco, this is provided by 360° Service – a service package covering equipment, energy and technology, security and safety, as well as planning and support.
Faults are reported via the service request form. Response times and the scope of repairs are specified in the contract, and the terms distinguish between normal wear and tear and damage. During the lease period, it is also possible to change the configuration of the facilities – adding or returning modules as needs change.
Step 8: Dismantling and returning the container
The return process begins with giving notice in accordance with the contract and agreeing on a collection date. Before the return, the module is prepared for handover, and its condition is recorded in a handover report – ideally including the same photographs and meter readings as at the time of collection.
The most common points of dispute concern distinguishing between wear and tear and damage, as well as the completeness of the equipment. That is why the handover report from the start of the tenancy is the best safeguard – it shows the initial condition against which the unit is compared upon return.
How much does it cost to hire an office container per month?
The rental cost comprises one-off and monthly charges. The one-off charges cover transport, assembly and dismantling, as well as any ground preparation required. The monthly charges cover the rental fee, servicing and optional equipment included in the subscription.
|
Type of fee |
What's included |
|
one-off |
transport, assembly, dismantling, and, where necessary, installation |
|
Monthly |
rent, service charges, optional fittings |
The monthly rate depends on the type and number of modules, the fittings and the length of the hire period. The price components are also described on the container hire page. It is worth bearing in mind that this applies to modular containers, not waste containers, which are billed differently.
How long can you hire a container for?
Kontener można wynająć zarówno krótkoterminowo – na event, sezon czy pojedyncze prace – jak i długoterminowo, na czas budowy lub jako stałe biuro. Długość najmu wpływa na stawkę miesięczną: przy dłuższym okresie bywa ona korzystniejsza. W trakcie lub po zakończeniu najmu moduł można też w części przypadków wykupić – warunki ustala doradca.
Wynajem, transport, montaż i serwis w jednym miejscu – dlaczego to ważne
Gdy cały proces prowadzi jeden dostawca, klient ma jeden punkt kontaktu i jedną fakturę zamiast łańcucha podwykonawców. To skraca ustalenia i upraszcza rozliczenia, a odpowiedzialność za moduł – od dostawy po serwis – spoczywa w jednym miejscu.
Algeco łączy wynajem, transport, montaż, serwis i – w razie potrzeby – sprzedaż modułów w jednej usłudze, realizowanej z ośmiu oddziałów w Polsce. Model najmu jako usługi, a nie jednorazowego zakupu, opisano we wpisie najem jako usługa.
FAQ
How long does it take from placing the order to the container being installed? With modules in stock and the site prepared, this can take just a few working days; for more complex configurations, it may take longer. The exact timeframe depends on the availability of models, site preparation and the scope of fittings, which is why it is determined by an advisor at the quotation stage.
What is included in the container hire price? It depends on the order – usually the hire charge and servicing, with transport and installation as one-off fees. The scope is confirmed in the quotation, and the total is invoiced as a single invoice.
Who pays for repairs during the rental period? The rules are set out in the contract, which distinguishes between normal wear and tear and damage caused by the user. It is therefore worth understanding this distinction before signing.
Can the lease be extended or shortened? Yes, in accordance with the terms set out in the contract, which specifies the notice period and procedure for termination. It is advisable to give notice of any changes in advance to ensure they fit in with the schedule.
Can a rented container be purchased? In some cases, yes – the terms of purchase are determined by an adviser. This option is often chosen when a temporary hire turns into long-term use.
How do I report a fault with a rented container? Via the service request form on the Algeco website, as part of the 360° Service. The response time is specified in the contract.
How does renting a modular container differ from renting a waste container? A modular container is a functional unit – an office, changing room, toilet block or storeroom – rented with transport, assembly and maintenance included. A waste container is a container for rubble or rubbish, charged on a per-collection basis. These are two different services, often confused mainly due to the similarity of the terms.