Any big build or renovation generates vast amounts of rubbish, and the best way to remove this from the site is via a skip.
But what size skip do you need? How long should you have it for, and what does skip hire cost in the UK?
This guide answers these questions and makes UK skip hire a breeze.
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Skip Hire Cost in the UK — 2023 Average Price Table
The following chart details how big the main types of skips are, relative to how many bags of rubbish they can hold and what price range you can expect to pay.
| Skip Type | Skip Size (cubic yards) | Max. No. Rubbish Bags | Price Range (per week) |
| Mini | 4 | 45 | £90–£130 |
| Medium | 8 | 90 | £200–£275 |
| Large | 12 | 135 | £250–£340 |
| Roll On, Roll Off | 20–50 cubic yards | 450 | £290–£400 |
Pro Tip: Get a minimum of 3 quotes from your local skip hire company. Chart prices are averaged for the UK, so London prices are higher.
Hippo Bags
Hippo Bags are much cheaper than skips, but they hold less rubbish. These bags can be bought from DIY stores or the Hippo company. Simply fill up with rubbish and then arrange a collection with Hippo.
It is most cost-effective to buy the bag and pay for collection simultaneously, so these prices are shown below.
There are three size options:
- Midibag: £110.99 — holds 1 tonne of rubbish
- Megabag: £148.99 — holds 1.5 tonnes of rubbish
- Hipposkip: £229.99 — holds 1.5 tonnes of rubbish
While the Megabag and Hipposkip hold the same amount by weight, the Hipposkip can hold larger-sized items.
Skip Tips to Remember
Before you hire a skip, remember the key points below:
Skip Permits
If you do not have space on your site to park the skip, you need permission from the council or housing association to park the skip on the road.
Get a permit that lasts the same time as your skip hire, usually for 1 to 2 weeks. Skip permits cost £30 on average per week. You can find out more about how to contact your local council on gov.co.uk.
Pro Tip: Some skip hire companies arrange the permit and include it in their costs. Double-check to save yourself time and money.
Fill with Care
Do not overfill your skip. Estimate the amount of rubbish you’ll produce and get a bigger skip.
Remember not to make the skip too heavy for the collector to lift. A good average is 40% heavy items and 60% lighter. Don’t fill a large skip to the brim with bricks!
Double-check what can and can’t be thrown in a skip. Commonly restricted items include electricals, tyres, batteries, paint cans, hazardous waste and plasterboard. Your skip company will be able to provide a full list.
Protect Your Skip
Avoid hiring a skip for longer by securely covering your skip overnight. Neighbours and passers-by quickly use skips as dumping grounds for their rubbish, meaning less space for yours.
On the other hand, remember one man’s trash is another’s treasure. Don’t be grouchy if someone asks to take an item from your skip for their DIY project. It’s considered pretty bad form to charge for this. Remember, they just saved you some skip room.
Pro Tip: Hire a house clearance firm if you have a large number of items to remove
Don’t fancy doing this job yourself? Find top-rated removal specialists in your area by clicking the button below:
Final Thoughts
If you follow the tips above, you can feel confident about hiring and organizing the best skip for your needs.
Pro Tip: If you’re removing a wall during your renovation project, check out our cost guide to knocking down a wall.