Skip Size Guide: What size skip do I need?

Planning a project but aren’t sure of what size of skip you need? Underestimating your required skip size could mean the inconvenience and expense of ordering a second, while overestimating means you’re paying for space you aren’t using. To help you to avoid this hassle, in this handy skip size guide, we take you through the most common types so you can order the right size first time around. 

 

What size skip do I need? 

First, it helps to get a sense of the scope and scale of your project. If you’re a homeowner, your project will most likely require a smaller skip than a large-scale commercial demolition, for example. Carefully consider how bulky the materials are likely to be, and how much is likely to be produced – if you aren’t sure, then read on to explore the different skip sizes available and the approximate loads they can carry.

 

How skip capacity is measured 

The volume of a skip is measured in cubic yards, or yd3. Roughly speaking, one cubic yard can hold around 10 bags of waste, or a little less than this. Of course, this depends on how bulky the waste is, so use this as a rough estimate. Please note that you should never overfill a skip beyond the sides as this makes it dangerous to transport – this should be considered when choosing your skip size. It’s always better to err on the side of caution and overestimate just slightly. 

 

Your guide to skip sizes 

So, let’s take a look at the main skip sizes available for commercial and domestic projects. You should be aware that available sizes will differ depending on the company you choose to go with, so consult with them directly for a more accurate idea of size. 

 

Mini Skips:

• Capacity: 2 – 3 cubic yards (or 20 – 25 bags)

• Uses: Ideal for small projects, such as kitchen refitting or a small garden clearout. Choose this size if you know your project won’t be producing very much waste, but you still want to convenience of a skip hire service 

 

Midi Skips:

• Capacity: 4 – 6 cubic yards (or 40 – 55 bags)

• Uses: For large house clearances, building extensions, small demolition projects and new builds, a midi skip will serve you well.

 

Builders Skips:

• Capacity: 8 cubic yards (or 70 bags)

• Uses: Whether you’re a homeowner or a commercial company, if you’re embarking on a big building project, this is the perfect size to opt for. They are also ideal for full house and garden renovations, or waste produced from building extensions. 

 

Roll on Roll Off Skips:

• Capacity: 20 – 40 cubic yards (or roughly 170 bags minimum) 

• Uses: This size of skip is used primarily in commercial construction and demolition projects and holds large amounts of bricks, rubble, soil, timber, plastics and concrete. It can also take large amounts of light, bulky waste. 

 

We hope you now have a clearer idea of the size you need for your upcoming project. If you’re in the Rotherham, Mexborough and Barnsley areas and need a little more advice, simply get in touch with Beta Skips, and we’d be happy to advise. We offer a full skip hire and collection service for domestic and commercial customers alike, and all are available at competitive prices. Contact us to find out how we can help.