Skip Hire Costs in the UK
Hiring a skip can be an efficient and cost-effective solution for waste removal, whether you’re working on a home renovation, clearing garden waste, or managing construction debris. With different sizes, types, and costs, finding the right skip for your project requires understanding the range of options available and knowing what to expect in terms of costs. In this guide, we'll explore the factors that influence skip hire costs, the types of skips available, and the additional fees that might come with your hire.
In This Guide
- Average Cost of Skip Hire
- Factors Influencing Skip Hire Cost
- Skip Types and Sizes
- Additional Costs to Consider
- Location-Based Price Variations
- How to Hire a Skip
- Frequently Asked Questions
Average Skip Hire Cost
Here’s a quick look at the average costs by skip size:
| Skip Size | Capacity | Average Cost (£) |
|---|---|---|
| 2-3 Yard Mini Skip | 30+ bin bags | £60 - £130 |
| 4-5 Yard Midi Skip | 40+ bin bags | £100 - £250 |
| 6 Yard Small Skip | 60+ bin bags | £120 - £300 |
| 8 Yard Builder’s Skip | 80+ bin bags | £160 - £370 |
| 10 Yard Large Skip | 100+ bin bags | £180 - £400 |
| 12 Yard Maxi Skip | 120+ bin bags | £220 - £440 |
| 14 Yard Maxi Plus Skip | 145+ bin bags | £220 - £460 |
| 16 Yard Maxi Plus Skip | 170+ bin bags | £240 - £500 |
| 18 Yard Maxi Plus Skip | 195+ bin bags | £280 - £550 |
| 20 Yard Roll-On Roll-Off | 220+ bin bags | £300 - £600 |
| 30 Yard Roll-On Roll-Off | 330+ bin bags | £320 - £650 |
| 40 Yard Roll-On Roll-Off | 440+ bin bags | £400 - £800 |
Factors Influencing Skip Hire Cost
Skip hire costs are affected by multiple factors:
- Skip Size: Larger skips cost more due to increased disposal and transportation needs.
- Hire Duration: Longer hire periods generally increase the total cost, although many companies offer flexible rates based on project needs.
- Location: Hiring a skip in cities like London can be significantly more expensive than in northern UK regions.
- Type of Waste: Certain waste types, such as hazardous materials, incur additional charges for safe disposal.
Skip Types and Sizes
- Mini Skips (2-5 Yards): Ideal for small domestic projects, mini skips are budget-friendly and can fit easily on driveways.
- Builder’s Skips (6-8 Yards): Popular for home renovations, these skips can handle moderate amounts of heavy waste.
- Large Skips (10-16 Yards): Suitable for larger domestic or commercial projects, these skips offer ample space for various waste types.
- Roll-On Roll-Off (20-40 Yards): Best for large-scale commercial or construction projects, these skips accommodate high volumes and bulky items.
- Lockable Skips: Available in multiple sizes, these skips prevent unauthorized waste dumping, a valuable option for public areas or high-traffic zones.
Additional Costs to Consider
In addition to the basic hire fees, you may encounter some extra costs:
- Permit Fees: Required if placing a skip on public land, permits typically range from £10 to £70, depending on the council.
- Restricted Waste Disposal: Materials like asbestos, electrical appliances, and hazardous waste usually incur extra disposal fees.
- Overfilled Skips: Exceeding the skip’s weight or filling limits can result in additional charges, which vary by company.
- Demolition and Labour Costs: If hiring additional services such as demolition, expect charges from £8-£15 per hour for general labor, with costs often higher in London and the South.
Location-Based Price Variations
Skip hire costs can fluctuate significantly based on your UK location. London and other southern areas typically see skip hire costs £50–£100 higher than in the north due to higher operating and waste disposal costs. The table below offers a breakdown of approximate regional costs for an 8-yard skip:
| Region | Average Cost (£) |
|---|---|
| London/South East | £220 - £370 |
| Midlands | £180 - £320 |
| Northern England | £160 - £300 |
| Scotland/Wales | £150 - £280 |
How to Hire a Skip
- Get Quotes: Contact local skip hire providers and compare at least three quotes to find the best deal.
- Choose a Skip Size: Providers can advise on the best skip size based on your waste volume and type.
- Arrange Permits: Most skip companies can handle permit arrangements if you plan to place your skip on a public road.
- Schedule Delivery and Collection: Agree on drop-off and pick-up dates to avoid any extra charges for extended hire.
FAQ's
How much does a 6-yard skip cost?
Expect to pay between £120 and £300 for a 6-yard skip, which can hold around 60 bin bags of waste.
Do I need a permit?
Permits are usually required for skips placed on public roads. Costs vary, but a permit typically lasts one to two weeks.
Can I dispose of all waste types in a skip?
Standard waste is allowed, but hazardous items like asbestos, paint, and electrical appliances are prohibited. Check with your provider for specifics.
What happens if I overfill the skip?
Overfilled skips may not be collected, or you may incur additional charges. Always stick to the fill line marked on the skip.
How can I make skip hire more affordable?
Choose the smallest skip that fits your needs, keep hire duration to a minimum, and avoid restricted waste. Comparing quotes is also key to finding the best rates.
Is there an alternative to skip hire?
Yes, skip bags and rubbish removal teams are alternatives. Skip bags cost around £50–£200, while rubbish removal teams typically charge £100–£500 for one-time pickups.
Skip hire is a flexible, efficient way to handle large volumes of waste, but costs can vary widely depending on your location, skip size, and other factors. By understanding these factors, you can find a skip hire option that meets both your budget and your project’s waste removal needs.