Acorn Transport & Plant Hire > News > General > A Guide to Skip Sizes in the UK

Planning a project that involves clearing waste can feel daunting, especially when it comes to figuring out the right skip size. Whether you’re tackling a home renovation, garden tidy-up, or managing construction site debris, choosing the properly sized skip is essential. It can save you time, money, and hassle while ensuring you dispose of your waste responsibly.

Here’s a straightforward guide to skip sizes in the UK, the dimensions of each size, their typical uses, and top tips for selecting the perfect skip for your needs.

What Are Skip Sizes?

Skips come in a variety of sizes, measured in cubic yards (yd³). A cubic yard is roughly the size of two standard washing machines side by side. Skips range from mini skips, perfect for small household projects, to roll-on roll-off skips for industrial work.

Each size has different loading capacities, so understanding this is crucial for efficient waste management. It’s always better to overestimate than to underestimate, as overloading skips is not only unsafe but might result in additional charges from your skip hire company.

Common Skip Sizes in the UK

4-Yard Midi Skips

• Dimensions: Approx. 1.8m (L) x 1.3m (W) x 1.0m (H)
• Capacity: Around 45–55 bin bags
• Best For: Ideal for slightly larger projects, such as bathroom or kitchen renovations. Midi skips hold general household waste and light construction materials.

6-Yard Builders’ Skips

• Dimensions: Approx. 2.6m (L) x 1.5m (W) x 1.2m (H)
• Capacity: Around 65–75 bin bags
• Best For: A popular choice, the builders’ skip can handle construction work, heavier waste like rubble, and full home clearances. Despite their name, they’re used just as often by homeowners for medium-scale projects.

8-Yard Large Skips

• Dimensions: Approx. 3.6m (L) x 1.7m (W) x 1.2m (H)
• Capacity: Around 85–95 bin bags
• Best For: Common on building sites, large skips are ideal for bulky waste types like kitchen units or heavy construction materials. Widely used for major renovation projects or large-scale garden overhauls.

14-Yard Maxi Skips

• Dimensions: Varies but averages around 4.1m (L) x 1.8m (W) x 1.75m (H)
• Capacity: 140 bin bags or more
• Best For: Perfect for light but bulky materials, such as shop fittings or furniture, rather than heavy builders’ waste. Ideal for commercial clearance jobs or larger office refits.

Roll-On Roll-Off (RoRo) Skips

• Dimensions: Vary from 20–40 cubic yards
• Capacity: Thousands of bin bags
• Best For: Built for industrial or large commercial projects. Suitable for large-scale construction sites or demolition projects.

Note: Some skip companies also offer enclosed skips with lids, which are useful for containing waste where security or weather is a concern.

How to Choose the Right Skip Size

1. Assess Your Waste Type and VolumeStart by estimating how much waste your project will generate. Use bin bags as a basic metric—how many would you need to clear your space? For heavier materials like bricks, rubble, or soil, opt for a sturdy builders’-style skip, as larger skips can’t handle extremely heavy contents.
2. Think About SpaceCheck where the skip will go. Mini and midi skips are perfect for residential driveways or areas with limited access. Builders’ and large skips may require additional space like a front garden or curbside.Pro Tip: You’ll need a skip hire permit from your local council if placing the skip on public roads.
3. Match the Skip to the Project
   • Home Renovations: Typically require a 6-yard or 8-yard skip.
   • Garden Clearances: A 4-yard skip is often sufficient for smaller gardens, while larger clearances may need a larger skip.
   • Construction: Large skips (8-yard and above) are ideal for construction debris.
   • Commercial Refurbishments: Opt for 12-to-16 yard skips or a RoRo skip for bigger undertakings.
4. Don’t OverfillOverloading your skip is a safety hazard and could result in extra fees—or worse, refusal to collect the skip. Always stick to the fill line and, if in doubt, size up rather than down.
5. Seek Advice from Your Skip Hire CompanyUnsure about which size to choose? Most skip hire providers are happy to offer recommendations based on your project details.

Extra Tips for Efficient Skip Use

• Recycling: Remove recyclable items such as metal, cardboard, and plastics beforehand to maximise skip space.
• Flat Packing: Break down larger objects (like flat-pack furniture or boxes) to free up room.
• Layering: Load heavy items like soil or rubble at the bottom and lighter, bulkier items on top.

The key is to maximise every inch of your skip thoughtfully.

Choosing the Right Skip Makes a Difference

Selecting the correct skip size in the UK doesn’t just ensure a smoother project—it also helps reduce unnecessary costs and enables responsible waste disposal. Whether it’s a simple weekend DIY task or a multi-week construction project, knowing your options upfront makes the entire process more manageable.

By understanding your project needs, keeping local regulations in mind, and planning ahead, you’ll make the skip-hiring experience both practical and cost-efficient.

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