Guide
What size skip do I need?
Compare 3, 6, 8 and 12 yard skips by bin bags and by job, and find out why heavy waste needs a smaller skip.
Skips are measured in cubic yards. The easiest way to picture them is in bin bags: a small 3 yard skip holds about 35 to 45, and a 12 yard maxi skip holds 100 to 120.
Skip sizes at a glance
| Skip | Holds about | Good for |
|---|---|---|
| 3 yard mini skip | 35–45 bin bags | Small bathroom renovations; Household spring cleans |
| 6 yard builders skip | 65–75 bin bags | Medium kitchen or bathroom refits; Garden clearances |
| 8 yard large builders skip | 75–85 bin bags | Large garden and landscaping projects; Full house clearances |
| 12 yard maxi skip | 100–120 bin bags | Office and shop clearances; Large building projects |
See the full measurements on our skip hire page.
Choose by the job
- Bathroom refit or a clear-out: a 3 yard mini skip is usually enough.
- Kitchen refit, garden clearance or small building job: a 6 yard builders skip is our most popular size.
- House clearance, extension or landscaping: an 8 yard large builders skip.
- Office or shop clearance, bulky light waste: a 12 yard maxi skip.
Heavy waste needs a smaller skip
Soil, rubble, bricks and concrete are very heavy. A skip full of them can be more than a lorry is allowed to lift, so heavy waste should go in a smaller skip, and the 12 yard maxi skip is for light waste only. If most of your waste is soil or hardcore, ask us about a skip for just that material: it's often cheaper because it's easier to recycle.
If in doubt, go one size up
A slightly bigger skip usually costs less than ordering a second one. Remember the skip must be loaded level with the sides, not piled above them, or we can't take it away safely.
Still not sure?
Call us on 01252 342365 (Farnborough) or 01329 288517 (Fareham) and tell us about the job. We'll suggest the right size.