Construction Skip Hire: Choosing the right size for your needs

Selecting the right skip size is a crucial consideration when planning any construction project – from small-scale renovation works to major commercial clear-outs. The correct size will not only ensure that your waste is properly contained; it will also allow you to comply with regulations and avoid additional costs. But with so many options to choose from when it comes to commercial skip hire, it can be difficult to determine which skip is best suited to your project’s needs.
We break down all the available options for construction skip hire below, so you can make an informed decision about which skip to choose for your project.
Understanding construction skip hire sizes & types
There are a variety of skip sizes available – from mini skips to large builder’s skips. Here are the most common skip sizes that are typically used for construction projects:
- 4 yard (midi) skip hire – these skips can accommodate 30-40 bin bags of waste, making them perfect for small construction jobs and heavy materials such as bricks
- 6 yard skip hire – ideal for medium-sized construction projects such as house extension work, these skips can house 50-60 bin bags of waste
- 8 yard skip hire – 8 yard skips are the go-to option for large renovation projects that generate substantial amounts of bulky waste (60-80 bin bags worth)
- 10 yard skip hire – suitable for housing between 80-100 bin bags worth of bulky waste from larger construction projects
- 12 yard skip hire – as our largest skip size, these skips hold 100-120 bin bags of waste, making them suitable for large-scale commercial construction projects
- Roll on roll off containers (RoRos) – available in sizes ranging from 15 to 40 yards, these large, open-top containers are ideal for major construction and demolition projects that generate high volumes of waste
Our standard skips are also available in open or enclosed formats. Open skips are the traditional type of skip, with an open design that makes them easy to fill – particularly on construction sites where bulky materials can be deposited from above. Enclosed skips have a lockable lid to prevent others from throwing their materials in your skip, which may be beneficial for construction projects with a tight budget.
How to choose the right skip size for your construction project
1) Assess the Type of Waste
Construction projects produce a wide variety of waste materials. The most common types of construction waste are:
- General building waste including rubble, soil, concrete, wood, and metals
- Inert waste materials that will not decompose naturally, like concrete and rubble
- Hazardous waste such as asbestos
The type of waste you produce could have a direct impact on the skip size you require. For example, heavy materials such as bricks may be better disposed of in smaller skips, to help avoid overloading. It’s important to note that hazardous materials may require more specialist disposal methods, so it’s worth asking your waste management company if they can accommodate hazardous waste disposal.
2) Estimate the Volume of Waste
As well as the type of waste, you’ll need to estimate the amount of waste your project is likely to produce. As explained above, 4 yard skips may be more suitable for small construction jobs, whereas 12 yard skips are best suited to large-scale commercial construction projects. RoRo containers are often the most cost-effective choice for extensive demolition or site clearance projects, as they allow for bulk disposal without the need to hire multiple smaller skips.
If you’re unsure about which skip size you need, we always recommend opting for a slightly larger skip to ensure you have enough space and won’t need to order an additional one. Read our dedicated blog post on ‘know your skip sizes’ for further advice on choosing the right skip size for your construction project.
3) Consider the Space Available
Once you’ve estimated the type and volume of waste your project will generate, it’s time to start thinking about where you will place the skip. Make sure that you have enough space to accommodate your chosen skip size without obstructing any pathways or driveways. When opting for a RoRo container, keep in mind that these containers need ample space for delivery and collection, as they are transported on larger vehicles. If your site has limited space, you may need to choose a smaller skip to fit the space comfortably.
4) Determine the Duration of Hire
Whilst assessing your project’s waste requirements, you’ll also need to estimate the duration of your construction skip hire. This decision should be informed by your project timeline, with a little bit of leeway in case deadlines are extended. Choosing to hire a skip for a longer period is often more cost-effective than shorter one or two-day rentals, so consider whether you could find multiple uses for the skip over your entire project timeline. If you’re looking to hire a RoRo container, you may want to consider hiring it for an extended period of time, especially if waste is generated continuously over time rather than all at once.
5) Apply for a Skip Permit
The final consideration when opting for construction skip hire is whether or not you need to apply for a skip permit. If you plan to place your skip on private land, you will not usually require a skip permit – but if the skip will be positioned on public land i.e. footpaths or roadsides, then you’ll need to apply for a permit from your local council. Many skip hire companies will complete all the paperwork and apply for the permit on your behalf, like we do here at McCarthy Marland.
Choose McCarthy Marland as your construction skip hire partner
If you’re seeking reliable construction skip hire for your upcoming project, look no further than McCarthy Marland. We supply skips and RoRo containers to construction sites of all shapes and sizes, and can help advise you on making the right selection for your project. Our team ensures timely skip hire delivery and collection, providing you with a hassle-free experience from beginning to end.
Get in touch today to discuss your construction skip hire needs.