What Is the Capacity of a 20 Yard Skip? Waste Volume Explained
When taking on a big project, from home renovations to construction work or commercial clear-outs, waste can quickly pile up. Choosing the right size is essential to keeping your site clear, safe, and on schedule. One of the most commonly requested options for larger-scale jobs is the 20 yard skip — but how much can it really hold, and is it the right fit for your needs?
In this guide, we’ll explain everything you need to know about the capacity of a 20 yard skip.
Understanding the Capacity of a 20 Yard Skip
A 20 yard skip is one of the larger options available for commercial and residential waste removal. Despite its size, it’s still considered a “roll-on roll-off” (RoRo) skip, meaning it’s delivered by a specialist lorry and rolled off at your site.
How Big is a 20 Yard Skip?
As the name suggests, a 20 yard holds 20 cubic yards of waste. In more familiar measurements, that’s roughly:
- 6.1 metres long
- 2.4 metres wide
- 1.2 metres high
This size can hold around 200 to 220 standard black bin bags or approximately 8 tonnes of light waste. It's ideal for bulky but lighter materials, which often take up space quickly.
What Projects is it Best Suited For?
The 20 yard is popular among:
- Construction companies handling large volumes of debris
- Homeowners undertaking full renovations or house clear-outs
- Landscapers managing soil, green waste, and rubble
- Businesses relocating offices or clearing storage units
- Event organisers disposing of temporary structures or seating
What Can and Can’t Go in a 20 Yard Skip
To make the most of your hire and stay within waste regulations, it’s important to know what is and isn’t permitted in a skip of this size.
Acceptable Waste Types
You can safely load the following into a 20 yard:
- Wood (including pallets and furniture)
- Metal (pipes, scrap, fittings)
- Plastic items
- Cardboard and paper
- Soil and rubble (within weight limits)
- General construction waste
- Green waste (branches, hedge trimmings)
Items You Cannot Dispose of in a Skip
A number of items are restricted due to environmental regulations or safety concerns. These include:
- Asbestos
- Paint tins (unless empty)
- Tyres
- Electrical items (fridges, TVs)
- Gas cylinders
- Chemicals or solvents
- Plasterboard (in large volumes, unless separated)
Loading Tips
To get the most from your skip:
- Load bulky items first
- Break down furniture or packaging
- Avoid overfilling above the “fill line”
- Distribute weight evenly
How to Hire a 20 Yard Skip – Process and Local Options
Hiring a skip doesn’t need to be complicated. By following a simple process and choosing a reliable local provider, you can ensure a smooth experience from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Hiring Guide
- Assess your waste – Estimate volume and type
- Get a quote – Compare prices for a
20 yard skip hire near me
- Arrange delivery – Choose a convenient drop-off date and location
- Secure permits – Needed if skip is placed on public land or roads
- Fill the skip – Stick to allowed materials and weight limits
- Collection – Your provider collects the skip when full or after an agreed period
Do You Need a Permit?
If the skip is going on private land (driveway or yard), no permit is needed. However, for placement on roads or council-owned land, a permit is usually required. Skip hire companies often assist in arranging this, but it’s good to allow 3–5 working days for approval.
Why Hiring Locally Matters
Searching for 20 yard will often yield more responsive, affordable options. Local providers understand council regulations, road access, and traffic considerations in your area. For projects in Worcester and beyond, local skip hire is not just convenient — it often results in faster delivery and better customer support.
Pricing and Cost Considerations
Understanding the 20 yard skip cost helps avoid surprises and lets you plan your project budget more effectively.
Average Cost in the UK
The typical 20 yard skip price ranges from £300 to £450, depending on:
- Your location
- Length of hire
- Type of waste (inert, mixed, etc.)
- Permit requirements (if applicable)
What Affects the Cost?
- Duration of hire – Longer terms usually cost more
- Waste type – Heavier or restricted waste may incur extra fees
- Permit fees – Around £30–£60 if needed
- Distance from depot – Delivery and collection charges may vary
Tips for Cost-Efficiency
- Be realistic with
skip size – don’t overpay for unused space
- Load efficiently to avoid needing an extra skip
- Ask about combined hire and permit packages
- Book early to secure availability during busy times
When you choose
Budget Skip Hire Worcester, you get more than just a skip — you get peace of mind. We offer:
- Reliable, local service with prompt delivery and collection
- A wide range of sizes, including the
20 yard skip
- Expert advice to help you choose the right skip for your needs
- Transparent pricing with no hidden fees
- Help with permits and compliance to local council regulations
- Environmentally responsible waste handling and recycling
We work with homeowners, builders, landscapers, office managers, and event planners across Worcester and surrounding areas. Whether you’re tackling a one-off project or managing ongoing waste, we’re here to support you every step of the way.
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