When you’re planning a renovation, clear-out or construction job, managing waste quickly and safely matters. Skip hire is the simplest way to keep things tidy and avoid multiple trips to the tip. Working out how much does it cost to hire a skip isn’t always straightforward though: prices shift with location, skip size, hire length, waste type and whether the skip sits on private land or the road. Here’s a clear, up-to-date guide so you know what to expect before you book.
Where you live in the UK has a big influence on skip hire costs. Urban areas (London and other major cities) usually run higher because of operating costs, congestion and the extra admin around parking or suspensions. Rural pricing can be lower, but distance from the depot can add a delivery charge.
If you’d like to know more about how we operate across the region, learn more About Us.
The biggest factor in your total is skip size. Here’s a quick guide to the most common sizes, their typical uses and starting prices this year:
| Skip Size | Ideal for | Approx. capacity | Price from* |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2 Yard | Small clear-outs, garden waste | ~20–30 bin bags | £130 |
| 4 Yard | Kitchen/bathroom refits, medium jobs | ~30–40 bin bags | £190 |
| 6 Yard | Heavy waste, construction | ~50–60 bin bags | £225 |
| 8 Yard | Large renovations, bulky waste | ~60–80 bin bags | £250 |
| 12 Yard | Large-scale clearances, bulky waste, light construction materials | ~100–120 bin bags | £450 |
*Guide prices. Exact quotes vary by postcode, access and waste type.
Most bookings run for 7–14 days. Extending past that can add a small daily or weekly fee; equally, some areas offer short-stay discounts when you only need a skip for a couple of days. If you’re unsure, check our FAQs for more details or give us a call.
Mixed household and light renovation waste is usually priced on the size of the skip. Heavier materials (soil, rubble, concrete) can affect what size is allowed and how the price is calculated. Some items — mattresses, plasterboard, tyres or electricals — are restricted or attract a surcharge because of disposal rules.
If the skip goes on a public road, your council will usually require a permit (commonly 1–2 weeks). Costs vary by authority but typically range from ~£30–£100. In many areas we can arrange this on your behalf and add it to your booking so there’s nothing extra for you to manage.
Options like wait-and-load (the driver waits while you fill, then leaves) remove the need for a road permit and are handy where space is tight. They’re usually a little more than standard hire but can be cheaper overall than arranging bay suspensions in busy city streets.
sales@martinskiphire.co.uk 
