Skip Size Calculator

How This Is Calculated

The calculator compares your estimated bin bag count against the bag ranges skip hire companies themselves publish for each standard size, and recommends the smallest size whose range comfortably covers your estimate.

If you estimate by room size instead, the space you enter is converted to an equivalent bin bag count using a rough figure of 0.1m³ (100 litres) per bag — close to the volume of a full builders' rubble sack — before being matched against the same table.

Common Questions

Why does the calculator use bin bags rather than cubic metres?

Bin bags are the unit skip hire companies themselves use to describe capacity, so matching your estimate to their own published bag ranges is more reliable than converting through cubic metres, where assumptions about how tightly waste packs can throw the answer off.

Should I round up if I am between two skip sizes?

Yes. Waste rarely packs as neatly as you plan for, and UK law requires a skip to be loaded level with the top rather than heaped above the sides, so there is no legal way to squeeze in more once it is full. A skip that is slightly too big costs a bit more; one that is too small often means paying for a second skip on top.

Does heavy waste like soil or rubble need a different skip?

Often yes, regardless of how much room it takes up. Skip hire companies set a maximum weight per skip, and dense material like soil, rubble, bricks or concrete can hit that weight limit long before the skip looks full. For heavy waste, tell the skip company what it is - they will often recommend a smaller skip specifically rated for it, or a mini skip filled only partway.

Do I need a permit for a skip?

If the skip sits on a public road or pavement, yes - your local council issues skip permits, usually arranged by the skip hire company on your behalf for a fee. A skip placed entirely on private land, such as a driveway, does not need a permit.