Skip Size Guide

Ordering a skip that’s too small can lead to frustrating waste overflow, while ordering one too large means you’re paying to move and dispose of empty space. To make sure you get it just right, use our skip size guide to choose the ideal skip for your project:

Consider the amount of waste you may generate

Estimating the amount of waste your project will create is a crucial step in selecting the right skip. While it’s not always easy to predict the volume, giving it careful thought in advance helps you visualise what size skip you’ll need. Use our skip size calculator as a starting point, or refer to our skip hire guide for a better understanding of which option fits your needs.

What waste will you be getting rid of?

The kind of waste you’re dealing with can directly affect your skip size and disposal costs. For instance, garden or green waste is often cheaper to dispose of than general household waste, and timber or wood materials can also lower your costs. Letting your waste provider know what types of waste you have in advance can help them recommend the most cost-effective solution.

However, if you anticipate a mix of materials, it’s important to plan for that by choosing a skip size that accommodates a variety of waste types. This will ensure you don’t run into issues with overfilling or improper disposal.

Consider the scope of your project

Considering the scope of your project will determine how long you need your skip for, so always keep that in mind in your planning stage. If you are carrying out a house refurbishment over a long period of time, it could be that you order a larger skip that can accumulate the generated waste over that period. Similarly, if you have a shorter term garden refurbishment in place, you may just need a smaller skip for a couple of days to fill with smaller amounts of waste.

The scope of your project can directly impact the cost of your skip, as most skip companies will enforce hire charges for the skip if it hasn’t been exchanged for a while. Hire charges tend to be charged after a 14 day period, however you should always check the fixed hire days with your skip company.

Consider your location & skip placement

When it comes to location, it is best to consider any potential issues you may have with access. In some cases, access issues can prevent your skip from being delivered. If you cannot get your skip onto your private property, fear not, there are still options available! You may find placing your skip  on a public road is required for  your project. This is  always possible; however, you need a skip hire permit in order to make this happen. If you discuss your access issue with a waste management expert, they will be able to identify if you just need a smaller skip or would need to place your skip on a public road.

So before booking your skip, consider just how much of an impact its size may have on your project. Take the above into consideration and you’ll have the right sized skip for your project.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right skip size is essential for making your project efficient and cost-effective. By using this skip size guide, you can confidently select the right skip for your needs. Planning ahead helps you avoid overspending, overflow, and delays, ensuring that your waste disposal is smooth and stress-free. If you need further assistance in selecting the right skip for your project, contact our friendly team for support.