Garden clearance and man-and-van garden waste removal services in the UK offer convenient options to keep your home garden clean and tidy. Typically, these services set their prices based on three main factors: the amount of waste to be removed, the labour involved, and the disposal costs. This flexible pricing model often makes these services a more practical choice than hiring a skip, especially for small to medium-sized clearances.
This guide explains how home garden waste removal pricing works, the key factors that influence quotes, and how to compare providers to ensure you’re getting fair value. You’ll also find real-life examples and a handy checklist of questions to ask before confirming any garden waste collection.
What Determines the Cost of Garden Waste Clearance for Your Home in the UK
Several factors influence the cost of home garden waste collection services in the UK. Most companies base their quotes on three main elements:
- A call-out fee that covers travel time and administration.
- The amount of waste to be collected, usually priced per truckload or by cubic yard, which can vary between providers.
- Labour costs, which might be included in the overall price or charged separately by the hour.
Understanding these factors helps you see what’s included in the quote and spot any hidden or unexpected charges before you book.
Pricing Based on the Amount and Size of the Load
Garden clearance companies in the UK usually base their prices on how much space your home garden waste takes up, often measured in cubic yards. Costs are typically set in tiers, starting from small loads and increasing up to a full van. The quoted price usually covers everything—dismantling, loading, transport, and disposal—so you know exactly what you’re paying for from the start.
| Load Size / Home Garden Type | Estimated Cost Range | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Small Garden Load (up to 250 kg) | £60 – £150 | Light garden waste such as a few bags of leaves, small branches, or cuttings. |
| Medium Garden Load (250-500 kg) | £150 – £300 | Half a van load; suitable for hedge trimming, grass clippings, or shrub removal. |
| Large Garden Load (500-1000 kg) | £300 – £500 | Full van load; ideal for complete garden clearances or removal of soil and turf. |
| Extra-Large Garden or Overgrown Plot | £500 – £900+ | Perfect for overgrown home gardens, multiple trips, or mixed waste types. |
Specific Item Examples
| Specific Home Garden Waste Item | Estimated Cost Range | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Garden Furniture | £40 – £80 | Removal of chairs, tables, or benches. |
| Fencing or Decking | £100 – £250 | Dismantling and clearance of wooden fixtures or panels. |
| Tree / Large Bush Removal | £150 – £400 | Depending on size, quantity, and access. |
| Soil or Turf Disposal | £150 – £350 | Heavier loads due to weight-based disposal fees. |
| Mixed Green Waste Bags | £40 – £100 | Collection of pre-bagged leaves, weeds, or clippings from your home garden. |
These prices generally cover the complete service, including dismantling, loading, transportation, and disposal. However, the final cost may vary depending on your location and the accessibility of your home property. Always get an accurate quote from a local garden clearance company.
Costs Based on Workload and Time Involved
Costs based on workload and time Involved
Labour is one of the main factors that affects the price of garden waste collection. Many companies, including Rubbish.com, include labour in their quote, while others may charge by the hour.
- Hourly rates for garden clearance typically range between £45 and £70, depending on the size of the team and the type of waste being removed.
- Some companies offer fixed prices that include labour but may add small extras such as a call-out fee or a minimum service charge.
For example:
- A two-person team might charge around £70 for a small load that takes 10–20 minutes to clear.
- Prices may rise if extra labour is required, if the property is difficult to access, or if a larger quantity of home garden waste needs to be removed.
Other garden clearance services adjust their hourly or fixed rates based on team size, vehicle type, and load volume, ensuring customers only pay for the time and effort actually required.
Call-Out Fees and Fixed Charges
Call-out fees are a common part of UK garden clearance services, helping cover travel and administrative costs. These fees are usually non-refundable.
- Call-out fee range: £45–£70.
- Some companies advertise fixed prices based on the type of waste or the size of the load.
With fixed-fee models, you pay a single upfront price that typically covers both labour and disposal. This pricing method is easy to understand and helps avoid unexpected charges for your home garden waste clearance.
Garden Waste Disposal Costs and Environmental Impact
Disposal fees cover the costs of legally processing waste at approved facilities and may vary depending on the type of waste being removed. Most garden clearance companies combine these charges into a single, easy-to-understand price, so you only pay one all-inclusive amount.
Increasingly, the way your home garden waste is handled and recycled can affect what you pay. Many licensed waste carriers focus on eco-friendly practices, working to recycle and reuse as much as possible. While this commitment to sustainability can slightly increase costs, it provides long-term environmental benefits that many homeowners value.
By understanding the costs and factors involved in home garden waste clearance, you can make informed decisions, ensuring a clean and eco-friendly space for your family.

