SKIPHIRECALCULATOR

What size skip do you actually need?

Answer a couple of quick questions and get a straight recommendation — no sales calls, no email required.

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Skip size guide

All sizes are approximate — capacity in cubic yards, dimensions are typical, and exact skips vary by supplier.

1
Mini skip — 2 yd³
1.8 × 1.2 × 1.0 m
Small DIY jobs, a few bags of rubble
2
Midi skip — 4 yd³
2.4 × 1.3 × 1.2 m
Bathroom refit, small garden clearance
3
Builder's skip — 6 yd³
3.0 × 1.5 × 1.2 m
Kitchen renovation, medium garden
4
Large skip — 8 yd³
3.6 × 1.7 × 1.3 m
House clearance, small extension
5
Maxi skip — 12 yd³
4.0 × 1.8 × 1.5 m
Large renovation, groundworks
6
RoRo skip — 16 yd³
5.8 × 2.3 × 1.5 m
Major construction, demolition
7
RoRo skip — 20–40 yd³
Site-dependent
Commercial sites, needs a licensed carrier

Permits, rules & what you can't bin

Do I need a permit for a skip?

You only need a permit if the skip sits on a public road or pavement. Your skip hire company usually arranges this with the local council on your behalf. If it stays entirely on private land — a driveway or garden — no permit is needed.

What can't I put in a skip?

Most skips can't take asbestos, wet paint or liquids, tyres, batteries, gas canisters, fridges, freezers or other electrical items. Plasterboard often needs a separate skip, since gypsum reacts badly with general waste in landfill. Check with your supplier before loading.

How long can I keep a skip for?

Standard hire is usually 1–2 weeks, with extensions available for a daily or weekly fee. Road permits are often limited to a set period, typically renewable in blocks of a few weeks.

Can I overfill a skip?

No. Waste must sit below the top edge of the sides. An overfilled skip can't legally be transported on public roads, and the operator can refuse to collect it or charge extra to make it safe.

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More guides

Full skip size guide, room by room

Dimensions, capacities and worked examples for every skip size.

How much does skip hire cost?

UK price ranges by size, region and waste type.

Do I need a skip permit?

When you need one, what it costs, and how to get one.

What can and can't go in a skip

The full list of banned items and why they matter.

Skip hire vs man and van

Which is actually cheaper and better for your job.