Skip Size Guide

_{Our skip sizes - which one is right for you?}

You can select the ideal skip with the help of the guide below. For any project, waste collection, or renovation, we have a skip for you.

Skips come in a range of sizes, from small to very large. It is more cost-effective provided you have enough waste to fill a larger skip. To help you choose the right size skip, our straightforward guide explains the uses for all the different skip sizes available (along with their dimensions), the kinds of projects best suited for each, and the restrictions that apply to larger skip sizes.

The standard unit of measurement for skip sizes is "cubic yards," which is often abbreviated to "yards."

HWM skip tips

Skips come in a variety of sizes and shapes, so there is undoubtedly one out there for you, but with so many options available, it is simple to choose incorrectly. In the UK, skips come in sizes ranging from 2 cubic yards to 40 cubic yards, making it possible to dispose of waste of all shapes and sizes. You can select the skip size that best suits your needs by using our quick and simple skip size guide.

6 yard small builders skip

The ‘6 yarder’ is one of the most common skip sizes. It's well suited to DIY or building projects like kitchen refurbishments and bathroom rip-outs. You'll frequently see this size of skip on residential properties. The capacity of this skip is equivalent to 50-60 bin bags. You will need a permit for this skip if you plan to locate it on the road or public highway (including pathways). We can help you get a permit if you'd rather not arrange it yourself.

8 yard large builders skip

The 8 yard skip is another common sight in residential areas and commercial properties and is the biggest available skip for heavy waste like soil, rubble or concrete Common uses include office and residential refurbishment projects, building and garden work and office clearances. this skip can hold the equivalent of 60-80 bin bags. The term ‘builders skip’ comes from its popularity with the building trade.

10 yard maxi skip

The 10 yard or maxi skip is ideal for large waste clearances and large refurbishment projects in both domestic and commercial settings. It can hold 80-100 bin bags but must not be used for heavy waste like soil, rubble, bricks or concrete because the skip lorry will not be able to lift it

12 yard maxi skip

Like the 10 yarder, the 12 yard skip is also ideal for large waste clearances and large refurbishment projects in both domestic and commercial settings. It can hold 100-120 bin bags but must not be used for heavy waste like soil, rubble, bricks or concrete because the skip lorry will not be able to lift it. The larger dimensions of this skip mean some councils do not allow them to be located on a public highway..

‍

Key Points

Smaller skip sizes, such 6 and 8 yard skips, are best for disposing of household waste, DIY projects, garden waste, home renovation projects and trade waste. Skips are allowed on public roads, but they need a council permit. Skips bigger than 10 yards cannot be approved for permits.
The best skips for commercial waste management are larger skips like roll on roll off and rear loading skips. The largest 40 yard skips are perfect for businesses that generate significant and ongoing waste streams.

Please note it is not permitted to light fires or to burn items in our skips.

Disallowed items not permitted in our skips include corrosive acid or noxious substances liquid cement or liquid concrete, fridges/freezers, mattresses, tyres, cans containing paint, TV’s, monitors, asbestos, clinical/medical waste, fluorescent tubes, solvents, any liquids, oil, batteries, plasterboard, hazardous/toxic materials, gas cylinders and carpets. See our Skips Terms of Service for full details of prohibited items and other useful information.