A skip bin, also referred to as a dumpster, is a huge open-topped waste container designed to be transported by specialized trucks for waste storage and disposal.
Choosing the perfect skip bin size for your waste removal needs is an important decision that requires careful consideration. With various sizes available, from three up to 15 cubic meters (and even larger), how do you determine what’s right for your situation? This guide covers the key factors to evaluate when taking your pick.
- Type of Waste Material
One of the primary considerations is the type of waste material you need to dispose of. If cleaning up garden waste like grass clippings, branches, and leaves, you may opt for a mini skip or a small two- to three-cubic meter bin. General household waste, including furniture and appliances, would need a medium four- to six-cubic-meter bin. For home renovations generating large piles of brick, wood, and other construction debris, an extensive 10+ cubic meter bin is most suitable.
You’ve got nothing to worry about when hiring waste solutions as reputable service providers offer skip bin sizes and types that align with common waste volumes.
- Physical Space Limitations
You must also measure the physical space available for placing the skip bin. These bins come in various shapes and dimensions, so check the length, height, and width. Height is crucial if placing the skip under a low balcony or garage roof.
The placement area must have clear access for the skip truck to safely deliver and later pick up the whole bin without obstruction. Gates should be measured to ensure entry is possible. Mark the exact spot planned for the skip with spray paint or stakes to guide the truck driver.
- Waste Volume Estimates
When estimating how much waste volume you need to contain, consider the initial pile awaiting disposal and some extra free space. A half-empty skip bin allows you to toss additional items later conveniently. A size slightly larger than your waste mound is recommended if you have the physical space on-site. An overfilled bin will not be collected, so err toward a larger skip if you expect added waste.
- Shared Skips
For shared household or office skips, you face the unpredictability of waste from multiple contributors. In these cases, choose a bin on the larger side to cover any eventuality unless tight on space. You want to avoid overflow, necessitating upgrading to a bigger skip mid-rental and paying added delivery/pickup fees. Build in some capacity buffer, even if it means unused space.
- Weight Limits and Restricted Materials
Each skip bin size comes with a specified weight limit. Exceeding this may result in additional fees or the need to hire a second skip bin. Also, be mindful of the types of materials you’re disposing of, as some skip bin providers may have restrictions on hazardous or prohibited items.
Understanding and adhering to weight limits and material restrictions will help you choose the right skip bin size and avoid complications during waste removal.
- Adjusting Skip Sizes
You can always start with a smaller bin and request a larger replacement if needed. But when reusing and replacing skips, you typically must empty the current skip before swapping it for a different size. Exchanging may create unwanted work and delays. But with careful upfront consideration of your expected waste volume, measuring your skip placement area, and allowing some extra capacity, you can ideally select the right-sized bin from the start.
- Larger Size Considerations
When uncertain between two sizes, bias your selection to the larger bin if budget permits. An oversized skip may cost slightly more but provides flexibility versus running out of space in an undersized unit. You also minimize any disruption from exchanging skips and associated extra fees. Consider the total cost trade-offs when choosing between nearly equal sizes.
Remember that larger skips can manage more significant waste volumes, but they require proportionately larger spaces on-site to operate safely. A 15 cubic meter skip may tower over three meters high when filled. Ensure you have adequate vertical clearance and surface footprint in your unloading access zone and factor in weight constraints. Extremely heavy debris can exceed road or soil load limits.
- Other Influencing Factors
Additional factors influencing your ideal skip bin size include local regulations and weight limits for road transport, budget constraints, and special access requirements like low bridges or tight corners along your property entry route. Consult your selected skip bin provider to confirm restrictions that may dictate specific size options over others.
Balancing All Considerations
Choosing the optimal skip bin size requires balancing all these critical considerations—waste volume, placement space, weight and access limits, buffer capacity, and transport regulations. With an accurate assessment of your situation, you can zero in on the correct skip bin size for your specific needs. Proper planning, indeed, makes waste disposal smooth, affordable, and efficient.
