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Cost GuidesUpdated May 2026By TradeMatch Editorial Team·9 April 2026·Updated 12 April 2026·5 min read
Skip Hire Costs UK 2026: Sizes, Prices & What You Can Dispose
Hiring a skip is the easiest way to dispose of renovation waste. Here is a guide to skip sizes, costs and what you can and cannot put in them.
Skip Hire Prices by Size
| Skip Size | Capacity | Best For | Average Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mini (2 yard) | 20–30 bin bags | Small clearouts | £80–£150 |
| Midi (4 yard) | 40–50 bin bags | Garden/room clearance | £130–£220 |
| Builder's (6 yard) | 60–70 bin bags | Bathroom/kitchen refit | £160–£280 |
| Large (8 yard) | 80–90 bin bags | Major renovation | £200–£350 |
| Maxi (10-12 yard) | 100–120 bin bags | Extension/demolition | £250–£450 |
| Roll-on-roll-off (20-40 yard) | Bulk waste | Major projects | £300–£600 |
Prices vary by region — London costs are typically 20–30% higher.
What Can and Cannot Go in a Skip
You CAN put in a skip: General waste, rubble, timber, metal, garden waste, furniture, carpets, ceramics, plastic.
You CANNOT put in a skip: Asbestos, gas canisters, batteries, clinical waste, chemicals, paint, tyres, electrical items (WEEE), food waste, liquids, plasterboard (needs separate skip).
Do you need a permit? If the skip is on your driveway or private land — no. If it is on a public road or pavement — yes, you need a council permit (£20–£50). Your skip hire company can usually arrange this for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long can I keep a skip?
Standard hire is 7–14 days. Extended hire is usually available for an additional fee. If the skip is on a public road, the permit may limit the duration.
Is a grab lorry cheaper than a skip?
For large volumes of heavy waste (soil, rubble), a grab lorry can be more cost-effective — £200–£400 for a 12-tonne load. They are also quicker as they load from your driveway without needing a permit. However, for mixed general waste, a skip offers more flexibility.
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