16 Yard Skip Hire Explained: Size, Capacity, and Typical Uses

Hiring a skip can make all the difference in managing waste efficiently, especially during larger projects. Whether you're a homeowner clearing out your property, a construction firm managing site debris, or a business relocating offices, the 16 yard skip hire is one of the most popular choices for handling bulk waste with ease.


What Is a 16 Yard Skip?

A 16 yard skip hire is one of the largest sizes available for domestic and commercial hire. It offers substantial capacity, making it perfect for handling high volumes of lightweight to moderately heavy waste.


Dimensions and Capacity:

  • Length: Approximately 13.5 feet (4.1 metres)
  • Width: Around 6 feet (1.8 metres)
  • Height: Roughly 6.5 feet (2 metres)
  • Volume: 16 cubic yards (about 12.2 cubic metres)
  • Capacity: Holds up to 160–170 bin bags of waste

While it's not designed for extremely heavy waste like soil or hardcore (due to weight restrictions), it’s ideal for lighter materials in large quantities, such as furniture, wood, plastics, packaging, and general mixed waste.


This size is commonly used by:

  • Construction companies dealing with interior rip-outs
  • Homeowners doing full-house refurbishments
  • Businesses clearing out warehouses or offices
  • Event organisers managing post-event waste


Typical Uses for a 16 Yard Skip

The 16 yard skip is known for its versatility. While it isn’t suitable for soil or rubble due to weight limits, it’s perfect for managing large volumes of general waste. Below are the most common uses:


Home Renovations and Clearouts

When undertaking full-scale refurbishments, loft conversions, or complete home clearances, this skip can handle a mix of furniture, fittings, carpets, plasterboard, and general household waste. It’s a favourite for homeowners who want everything gone in one go.


Construction and Building Projects

Construction sites often generate a high volume of packaging, timber, and non-hazardous waste. A skip 16 yard is perfect for internal strip-outs, ceiling tile disposal, and dry waste removal from commercial fit-outs.


Office and Commercial Clearances

Relocating or refurbishing an office can result in a lot of unwanted items — desks, chairs, shelving units, and paper waste. This skip handles commercial waste effectively, helping businesses manage transitions smoothly and keep their sites clean.


Landscaping and Garden Overhauls

For landscapers dealing with green waste, fencing, and timber, a 16 yard offers enough space to contain bulky material. However, care must be taken not to overload it with heavy soil or rubble.


Events and Festivals

After a large public event or private function, waste builds up quickly. This size is frequently used by event planners to ensure fast, effective clean-up operations.

16 Yard Skip Cost and Price Factors

If you're considering a 16 yard, one of your first questions is likely to be: how much does it cost? The 16 yard skip cost varies depending on a few factors.


Average Price Range:

In most areas of the UK, you can expect to pay between £250 and £400, including VAT. In Stevenage, prices typically fall within this range, although rates may change based on demand and availability.


Key Factors Affecting Price:

  • Location: Urban areas or those with limited skip suppliers may charge more.
  • Permit Requirements: If the skip is placed on public land or a road, a council permit is needed, which adds to the cost.
  • Hire Duration: Standard hire is usually 7–14 days. Longer hire may incur additional charges.
  • Waste Type: Some waste materials (e.g. plasterboard, mattresses) may carry extra disposal fees.
  • Access: If your site is hard to reach, a delivery surcharge might apply.

When searching for the best 16 yard skip price, always check what’s included (e.g. permit handling, VAT) and what restrictions apply.


Booking a 16 Yard Skip Hire Near You

Booking a 16 yard skip hire near me is now easier than ever thanks to online booking systems and dedicated local providers. But choosing a reputable company ensures you avoid delays, hidden costs, or issues with waste compliance.


How to Book:

  1. Get a Quote: Online or by phone — many websites provide instant pricing.
  2. Confirm Delivery Details: Specify the placement location (driveway or on-road).
  3. Arrange a Permit: Your skip company will usually handle this if the skip is going on public land.
  4. Prepare the Site: Ensure access is clear and level.

When choosing a provider, look for:

  • Fully licensed waste carriers
  • Positive customer reviews
  • Transparent pricing
  • Prompt delivery and collection


Choosing the right skip size for your project can save you both time and money. The 16 yard is a practical and popular option for large-scale waste disposal needs — from home renovations and office clearances to commercial fit-outs and event cleanups.


It offers generous capacity for lightweight waste and helps keep sites tidy, safe, and efficient. While it’s not suitable for soil or heavy rubble, it excels in managing volume-based waste types.


Before hiring, always check what can and can’t be placed in the skip, and ensure the provider is licensed and reputable. A reliable 16 yard skip hire service ensures your waste is managed legally, affordably, and responsibly.


At Skip Hire Stevenage, we understand the importance of dependable, professional waste solutions for both residential and commercial customers. Whether you’re managing a construction site, clearing out an office, or renovating your home, we’re here to make skip easy and stress-free.


Why clients trust us:

  • Local knowledge: We know Stevenage and surrounding areas well, ensuring fast, efficient service.
  • Reliable delivery and collection: No delays or disruptions to your project.
  • Transparent pricing: No hidden costs — what we quote is what you pay.
  • Wide skip range: From mini skips to large-scale options like the 16 yard.
  • Customer-first approach: Friendly, knowledgeable staff ready to assist every step of the way.


Update on X: 16 yard skip hire guide – size, capacity, and typical uses covered!

Skip Hire Stevenage

01438 904 089

4 Bedwell Park

Stevenage, SG1 1NA

United Kingdom

You might also like

December 5, 2025
A complete guide on choosing the right size skip for any project. Learn sizing, tips, waste types and expert advice. Written for homeowners and businesses.
November 23, 2025
Discover 10 common projects in Stevenage that need large skips for efficient waste removal. Learn how to choose the right skip hire for your home, business, or DIY project.
November 13, 2025
Avoid costly mistakes when using skip bags! Discover 10 common errors and expert tips for safe, efficient waste disposal. Perfect for homeowners, businesses, and construction projects.
More Posts