What size skip do I need?

Mini (2 yard) suits small clearances. Midi (4 yard) is good for bathroom or kitchen refits. Builders (6 yard) is the most popular for general building work. Maxi (8 yard) for larger renovations. 12 yard and roll-on roll-off for demolition and large projects.

Do I need a permit for a skip on the road?

Yes - if the skip is placed on a public highway (road, pavement, verge), you need a skip permit from the local council. Costs vary by council (typically £25-£60). The skip company usually arranges this but charges you. Permits are not needed on private land.

What cannot go in a skip?

Prohibited items include: asbestos, gas cylinders, fridges/freezers, tyres, batteries, electrical equipment (WEEE), paint, solvents, plasterboard (must be separated), clinical waste, and food waste. Hazardous waste requires specialist disposal.

How heavy can a skip be?

Each skip has a weight limit - typically 1.5t for a mini, 3-4t for a builders skip, and up to 15t for a 40-yard roll-on. Soil, rubble, and concrete are very heavy (1.8t/m3) and can exceed weight limits before filling the skip. Always check with your supplier.

What is the difference between recycling and landfill rates?

Skips sent to recycling facilities are typically 20-40% cheaper because they avoid landfill tax (currently around £100/tonne). Segregating waste (separating timber, metal, inert) at source often qualifies for recycling rates.

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Skip Hire Calculator

Choose the right skip size and calculate total disposal costs

Waste Volume

Skip Size

Waste Type

Skip Hire Cost (each)

How We Calculate This

Enter your estimated waste volume in cubic metres and select a skip size. The calculator determines how many skips you need, applies your hire cost per skip, adds highway permit fees if required, and checks the estimated waste weight against the skip weight limit based on waste type density. It also recommends the most suitable skip size for your volume.

Frequently Asked Questions

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Last updated: March 2026

All calculations are estimates. Verify with your supplier.