Picking the right size saves money. Too small and you'll need a second bin. Too big and you're paying for empty space.
Estimate in trailer loads
A level load in a standard 6x4 box trailer is roughly one cubic metre. If you'd need about three trailer trips to the tip, a 3 m³ skip is about right. Piled-up loads hold more, so be honest about how high you'd stack it.
Think about bulky items
Furniture, branches and old cabinets don't pack down neatly and leave gaps. Break things down where you safely can, and allow extra space if you can't.
Heavy waste changes the answer
For soil, concrete and bricks, the limit is usually weight, not space. A small bin full of soil can weigh more than a big bin full of household rubbish. Tell the provider what you're putting in and they'll suggest a size.
Quick guide
- Garden clean-up or garage tidy: 2–3 m³
- Bathroom renovation: 3–4 m³
- Kitchen renovation or house clear-out: 6 m³
- Large renovation or demolition: 8–10 m³
If you're between two sizes, the larger one is usually cheaper than a second bin.