Not Sure What Skip Size You Need? Our Skip Size Calculator Means You Don’t Have to Guess
Most people hire a skip only a handful of times in their lives, so it’s perfectly normal to be unsure whether a 4-yard, 6-yard or 8-yard skip is the right choice. Our Skip Size Calculator was designed to make that decision easier. Instead of estimating cubic metres or counting black bags, simply tell us about your project and we’ll recommend the most appropriate skip size based on the waste you’re likely to generate. It’s a quick, practical starting point for homeowners, tradespeople and businesses planning everything from small DIY jobs to major renovations.
At Hire A Skip Online, we’re dedicated to making skip hire in Ireland simple – that’s why our new online booking portal let’s you book your skip online in seconds. All you have to do is enter your location, preferred skip size and waste type and your delivery address. That’s it!
How Our Skip Size Calculator Works
Our calculator uses common project types, estimated waste volumes, and the materials you’re disposing of to recommend the most suitable skip size. While every project is different, the recommendations are based on typical household, garden, and construction projects to help you choose a skip with confidence.
If your project includes heavy materials such as soil, concrete, bricks, or rubble, it’s important to consider weight as well as volume. Although a larger skip can hold more waste, every skip has a maximum weight limit. If that limit is exceeded, the skip may not be legally transported until some of the waste has been removed, which can result in delays or additional charges. For projects involving large quantities of heavy waste, hiring two smaller skips or arranging separate collections is often a more practical and cost-effective solution than filling one large skip beyond its permitted weight.
Our calculator also considers the type of project you’re undertaking, helping to recommend a skip that’s suitable for both the volume and weight of your waste. If you’re still unsure, our team is always happy to offer advice before you book.
Things to Consider:
Will the Skip Fit on My Driveway?
Choosing the right skip isn’t just about capacity—it’s also about making sure there’s enough space for it to be delivered safely.
For example, a 14-yard skip measures approximately 4.1 metres (13.5 feet) long, 1.75 metres (5.75 feet) wide and 1.8 metres (6 feet) high. While it’s ideal for large volumes of lightweight waste, it may be too long for some driveways or properties with restricted access.
If you’re unsure whether your chosen skip will fit, it’s worth measuring the available space before booking. You can also take a look at our skip size guide here for more information. Our team can also advise on suitable alternatives if access is limited or if a smaller skip would be a better fit for your property.
Placing a skip on a public road or footpath?
If your skip will be placed on a public road, footpath, grass verge or parking bay, you’ll usually need a permit from your local council before it can be delivered. No permit is required if the skip is kept entirely on private property, like a driveway.
In most areas, the skip hire company will arrange the permit on your behalf, although some councils may require the customer to apply directly. Permit approval typically takes 3–5 working days, so it’s best to book in advance. Requirements and fees vary by local authority, in Dublin prices range from €50 – €75, whereas prices in Galway City range from €25 – €50. Placing a skip without the necessary permit can lead to delays, fines or removal of the skip.
Recommended Skip Sizes
2 Yard Skip
Ideal for:
- Small DIY projects
- Minor garden tidy-ups
- Shed or garage clearances
- Small amounts of soil, bricks or rubble
Typically holds around 20–25 black bags of waste.
4 Yard Skip
Ideal for:
- Small DIY projects
- Garden clearances
- Bathroom renovations
- Soil and rubble
Typically holds around 30–40 black bags of waste.
6 Yard Skip
Ideal for:
- Kitchen renovations
- Medium-sized garden projects
- Home improvements
- General household waste
Typically holds around 50–60 black bags.
8 Yard Skip
Ideal for:
- House clearances
- Large renovations
- Home extensions
- Mixed household waste
Typically holds around 70–80 black bags.
14 Yard Skip
Ideal for:
- Bulky but lightweight waste
- Office clearances
- Shop refits
- Large renovation projects
Not usually suitable for heavy rubble. Typically holds around 150+ black bags.
Why Choosing the Correct Skip Matters
Many people assume that hiring a smaller skip will save money. However, choosing a skip that’s too small often leads to additional collections or even hiring a second skip, increasing the overall cost of the project.
On the other hand, hiring a skip that’s significantly larger than you need means paying for unused capacity. Using our Skip Size Calculator helps you strike the right balance between cost, convenience, and efficiency.
Unsure Between Two Sizes?
If your project sits between two recommendations, it’s usually worth choosing the larger skip. Overfilled skips cannot be legally transported, and loading waste above the fill line can result in delays or additional charges. When in doubt, a slightly larger skip often provides better value than arranging a second collection.
Frequently Asked Questions
How accurate is the Skip Size Calculator?
Our calculator provides an estimate based on the information you enter and typical waste volumes for similar projects. Every project is different, so if you’re unsure, contact our team on or at for personalised advice.
Can I put heavy waste in any skip?
Heavy materials such as soil, bricks, concrete, and rubble are often subject to weight restrictions. Our calculator considers these materials when recommending a skip, but it’s always worth checking before booking. For more information, take a look at our guide: What Can & Can’t Go in a Skip in Ireland?
What if I have more waste than expected?
If your project generates more waste than anticipated, we can arrange a skip exchange or recommend a larger size for future collections.
What can’t go in a skip?
Certain items, including asbestos, tyres, gas cylinders, paint, batteries, and hazardous waste, require specialist disposal and should not be placed in a standard skip. Please check our prohibited items guide before booking.
Why can’t skips be filled above the line?
Skips must not be filled above the marked fill line because they need to be transported safely and legally. Waste piled above the top of the skip can fall onto the road during transit, creating a serious hazard for other road users, pedestrians and cyclists.
