When it comes to clearing out your waste, selecting the appropriate skip size for hire is one of the most critical decisions to make. Opting for a skip that’s too small can lead to overflow and, consequently, extra costs, while one that’s too large might be unnecessary and challenging to position. That’s why, here at Fowles, we’ve created a skip hire guide to ensure you never choose the wrong skip size again!
Understanding the Different Skip Sizes
To begin, we need to understand the different sizes of skips. Skips are measured in cubic yards. To help you visualise this, think of one cubic yard as being the size of two washing machines. The yard capacity then determines how much waste it can hold. Our range of skip sizes includes 4-yard, 6-yard, 8-yard, 10-yard, and 12-yard skips. We also offer 20- to 40-yard roll-on-roll-off skips, which are perfect for projects generating very large volumes of waste. Each size serves a different purpose and is therefore more suitable for specific projects.
4-Yard Skips (Length 8ft 5in x Width 5ft x Height 3ft)
Known as “Midi Skips,” a 4-yard skip can hold approximately 35-40 black bags of general mixed waste. They are ideal for smaller domestic projects and renovations that generate more waste than it’s worth taking multiple trips to and from the waste disposal centre.
6-Yard Skips (Length 10ft 6ins x Width 5ft 9ins x Height 3.4ft)
These are often referred to as “Small Builders Skips” due to their suitability for smaller building projects. A 6-yard skip can hold around 65-70 black bags of waste, making them ideal for smaller renovation projects and commercial use.
8-Yard Skips (Length 11ft 6in x Width 5ft 9in x Height 3.4ft)
Known as “Builders Skips,” these can hold around 70-80 black bags of waste. They are a popular choice for both domestic and commercial projects due to being in the middle of our extensive range of skip sizes.
10-Yard Skips (Length 12ft x Width 6ft x Height 6 ft)
A 10-yard skip can accommodate around 100-110 black bags of general mixed waste. They are ideal for domestic projects and renovations that generate large bulky waste that cannot be easily transported to the waste disposal centre.
12-Yard Skips (Length 13ft x Width 6ft 5ins x Height 6ft 5ins)
These are commonly known as “Maxi Skips” and can hold up to 110-120 black bags of waste. They are suitable for large business renovations or house clearances that can or will generate a substantial amount of rubbish. However, they cannot be used for heavy solid materials, including soil or concrete.
Therefore, before booking a skip, please try to estimate how much waste you will produce and how bulky it is. Decluttering, spring cleaning, or small renovations are more suitable for our smaller skips, but for larger home renovations, it’s important to consider our larger skips and therefore where they are able to be placed.
Considering the Space
Please ensure there is enough room on your property or at your construction site for the skip you choose. Depending on the size of your driveway, you may be able to fit some of our smaller skips. However, if you don’t have a driveway or require a larger skip, you might need a permit. Permit prices may vary depending on the local authority you are in, and it’s important to note that they require a few days’ notice.
Also, keep in mind that the skip delivery vehicle needs space to safely drop off and collect the skip. Check for any potential obstructions, such as low-hanging branches or power lines, that might restrict access. Please also make sure the space for the skip is accessible and empty for our team to drop off and collect prior to the skip delivery, including a clear road free of parked cars or permission from your neighbour if you have a shared driveway.
Budget Considerations
Your budget can play a role in determining the skip size you choose, as renting a smaller skip tends to be more affordable than renting a larger one. However, we do not recommend renting a smaller skip if you require a larger one just because it is more affordable. Any waste that exceeds the height of the skip’s sides is not safe for us to transport to our facilities and may result in additional costs.
Overall, the key three things to consider when hiring your skip are the size you need, the space you have, and your budget. If you’re still unsure about which skip is perfect for you, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us through our contact page. We’re always eager to assist and can provide expert recommendations based on your specific needs. Our goal is to make your process smoother and as environmentally responsible as possible.
