7 top tips for the best way to fill a skip

You’ve hired a skip, but you’re concerned that you have so much waste it may not all fit in. You also want to be sure that it is filled safely, without facing additional charges.

At 1^st Choice Concrete & Skip Hire we have many returning customers, but we’re aware that first time skip users may be a little apprehensive when it comes to filling the skip.

In this guide we will advise you how to safely fill your skip and maximise the space available.

7 top tips for safely and efficiently filling your skip

1. Take heed of the fill line

Each skip has a fill line. This isn’t decorative! The fill line requires your attention. It is the maximum height at which waste can be safely loaded. Anything loaded above the fill line can fall out which is a hazard that compromises the safety of you, our operatives and members of the public.

2. Prioritise waste that must go in the skip before you begin to fill it

Just in case your waste exceeds the capacity of the skip, you should determine which items are a priority for skip disposal before you begin. For example, the heavier or bulkier items are more difficult to dispose of by alternative means, so it is best that you identify those as a priority.

3. Put lighter items of waste in first and heavy items last

With careful consideration for priority waste, you should put lighter waste items into the skip first. This way, heavier items placed on top can compress the lighter waste to create additional space. It will also prevent lighter items from blowing away when the full skip is in transit.

4. Place flat items in line with the shape of the skip

Large flat items such as doors or broken down cupboards can be laid on top of the lighter waste, or along the sides of the skip. This efficiently uses the space and stops them from exceeding the fill line.

5. Break bulky waste down

Bulky items such as furniture can waste valuable space in a skip so it’s best to dismantle and break them down if possible.

6. Fill any gaps

Use small waste items to fill gaps as you go along to reduce wasted space. Small bags of rubbish, rubble, packaging and other small items can be strategically placed to allow the waste to settle and provide more space on top. This will also make the load more stable.

7. Avoid tossing items into the skip

If you toss items into the skip in a haphazard manner you create voids. Pack items tightly by placing them in the skip and pressing down on them to help them settle into the space.

What size skip do I need?

Here is a breakdown of the skips supplied by 1^st Choice, and guidance on which may be best for your project:

4 yard skip

• 78m x 1.52m x1.52m
• Capacity for around 30-40 bin bags
• Ideal for small domestic refurbishments, garden clearances and DIY projects

8 yard skip

• 22m x 3.66m x 1.8m
• Capacity for around 60-80 bin bags
• Ideal for builders or trades, or large DIY projects

8 yard enclosed skip

• 55m x 3.66m x 1.8m
• Taller than a standard 8 yard skip and lockable, with capacity for around 60-80 bin bags
• Ideal for domestic and commercial projects

8 yard crane lift skip

• 22m x 3.66m x 1.8m
• Can be lifted by a crane into limited access areas, with a capacity for around 130-140 bin bags
• Ideal for builders or trades, or large DIY projects

14 yard skip

• 2m x 4.3m x 1.78m
• Capacity for around 120-140 bin bags
• Ideal for substantial domestic or commercial projects

We also supply 25 yard and 40 yard RORO (roll on roll off) bins for larger waste projects.

1^st Choice Concrete & Skip Hire – your local skip hire company for Merseyside

Get in touch with 1^st Choice to discuss your skip requirements.