Common FAQ for Skip Bin Hire

We provide skip bins for domestic and commercial waste, including:

• Marrel skip bins – lifted off the rear of the truck

• Hooklift skip bins – larger, rolled off the truck, usually 10–30m³

• Mobile skips – box trailers with lockable lids

• Skip bags – flat-packed, suitable for small jobs

• In Sydney, we also provide a Load & Go service, which can take up to 8m³ of waste.

A cubic metre (m³) is a unit of volume.
1 cubic metre = depth × width × length.

Approximate trailer load to cubic metre conversion (6 × 4 ft trailer):
• 1 trailer load ≈ 0.7 m³
• 1.5 trailer loads ≈ 1 m³
• 3 trailer loads ≈ 2 m³
• 4.5 trailer loads ≈ 3 m³

These conversions are estimates only and can vary depending on how the trailer is loaded and the type of waste

2–3 Cubic Metres

• Best For: General household tidy-ups, decluttering, or garden clean-outs.

• Size Guide: Holds around 8 to 12 wheelie bins.

• Typical Waste: Old furniture, small household items, garden trimmings, and green waste.

4–6 Cubic Metres

• Best For: Larger clean-ups, moving house, or garage and shed clear-outs.

• Size Guide: Fits about 16 to 24 wheelie bins.

• Typical Waste: Bulky household goods, broken furniture, appliances, and mixed household rubbish.

Working out the right skip size comes down to the type of job and the amount of waste you’ll have. The easiest way to estimate is to picture your rubbish in a pile, then measure the length × width × depth in metres. Multiply those numbers together to get the approximate cubic metres. That figure will help you match your waste to the right bin size.

Here’s a simple guide:

• 2–3 Cubic Metres – Suits small household or garden clean-ups. Holds around 8–12 wheelie bins.

• 4–6 Cubic Metres – Great for garage and shed clear-outs, or when moving house. Holds about 16–28 wheelie bins.

• 7–10 Cubic Metres – Best for large clean-ups, bulky items, or full-house decluttering. Holds roughly 28–40 wheelie bins.

Waste type also matters:

• General household rubbish, old furniture, appliances → any size depending on volume.

• Garden clippings, branches, leaves → usually fit well into smaller to mid-sized bins.

Check our Bin Type page for guidance or call us on 1300 895 246.

Next day delivery is available online if you book before 8:00pm.

For the best chance of availability and the best prices, we recommend booking your bin at least 48 hours before delivery.

The amount of waste a skip bin can hold depends on its size. Smaller bins are best for quick clean-ups, while larger bins are better for renovations and bigger jobs. (6×4 Trailer loads)

A 3m³ skip holds roughly 4 trailer loads and some is easy to load with a wheelbarrow.

A 4m³ skip can take around 5 to 6 trailer loads, which suits small renovation jobs.

If you’re doing a bigger clean-up, medium skips give you more room.

A 6m³ skip holds about 8 to 9 trailer loads, while a 7m³ skip fits close to 10 trailer loads.

An 8m³ skip can handle around 11 trailer loads of waste.

For large projects, large skips are the way to go.

A 9m³ skip fits roughly 13 trailer loads, and a 10m³ skip holds about 15 to 16 trailer loads.

A 15m³ skip is suited to big renovations and fits around 21 trailer loads, while a 30m³ skip can hold up to 43 trailer loads.

If you’re not sure which size to choose, it’s usually safer to go a bit bigger.

Not all skip bin providers have doors on their bins

• Marrel bins 4m³+ often have wheelbarrow doors. 

• Hooklift bins often have large doors for machinery.

• Smaller bins usually do not.

In Queensland, most providers do not provide bins with doors.

IMPORTANT: Check with us before booking if you need a door as not all bins come with doors or make sure you add it to the comments area of your booking.

Yes. Skip bins can be placed on grass, driveways, or hard surfaces. Please ensure the access is 3metres wide with no over hanging wires or branches.

Please do not fill the skip bin above the rim. All waste must be level with the top edge of the bin and safe for transport. Nothing should stick out.

If the bin is filled above the rim or is unsafe, the driver may refuse to collect it. You will need to remove some waste before the bin can be taken away.

If the driver leaves and has to return another day, a call-out fee will apply and the collection will need to be rebooked. Extra hire fees may also apply if the bin stays on site longer than agreed.

Your skip bin must be filled no higher than the rim. All waste should sit level with the top edge, with nothing sticking out.

If you think you’ve underestimated the amount of waste, don’t overload the bin. Give us a call and we can organise a changeover or an additional bin to keep everything safe and compliant.

You, the customer, are responsible for all rubbish placed in the bin once it is placed on your property, either along the property boundary or on public ground.

We recommend keeping the bin on your property and covering it with a tarp when not in use (please remove the tarp before collection) motion lights facing the bin can also help. We also suggest that you reserve the skip bin for the days you plan to use it.

How long you can keep a bin depends on the location:

Sydney: 4 to 14 days

Melbourne: 3 to 7 days

Perth: Up to 7 days

Brisbane: 3 to 7 days

Adelaide: Up to 5 days

If you need the bin for longer than this, most suppliers charge a daily rate. If you think you’ll need it longer than your quote says, please call us on 1300 895 246 before the bin is collected, and we’ll see if it can be arranged.

Skip bins are handy for a wide range of waste, from everyday household items to heavier loads. You can put in:

• Household goods – old furniture, appliances, clothes, toys, boxes, and general clutter.

• Garden waste – branches, grass clippings, leaves, shrubs, and small tree offcuts.

• Builders and renovation waste – timber, tiles, plasterboard, bricks, metal, and general rubble.

• Soil and dirt – allowed in most bins, but check weight limits before loading.

• Whitegoods – fridges, washing machines, dryers (must be emptied).

• General rubbish – perfect for garage, shed, or whole-house clean-outs.

Not accepted: asbestos, gas bottles, chemicals, paints, liquids, batteries, or medical waste. These are hazardous and require specialist disposal.

Tip: Separate your waste before booking. It helps you choose the right bin, avoids contamination fees, and makes the job smoother.

Yes — weight limits apply to General Waste, Green Waste, and Asbestos bins

For most these waste types, the weight limit is 150 kg per cubic metre. For example:

• A 2 m³ bin can hold up to 300 kg of waste

• A 3 m³ bin can hold up to 450 kg

These limits are in place to help reduce tipping costs for both the customer and the skip bin provider

All bins are weighed in and out at waste facilities. If the bin exceeds the limit, the provider or Skip Bins Online will contact you and extra charges will apply.

Household, Mixed Heavy, Mixed Waste with Soil bins, Light Builders, Clean Waste, Mixed Rubble, are non-weight-limited

• Excavation Waste – soil only (no concrete, timber, plastic, or rubbish).

• Mixed Waste with Soil – must not contain more than 80% soil.

• Mixed Rubble – for bricks, concrete, or tiles.

• Clean Waste – for one type only.

• Mixed Heavy or Mixed Waste with Soil – for combinations.

Only if the waste type allows it:

• Mixed Heavy – builders’ waste and household waste.

• Mixed Waste with Soil – builders’ waste and household waste and includes soil (max 80%).
  For all others, select the correct type. Mixing wrong materials may lead to extra charges.

Yes, you can. Just make sure they are emptied first.

• For a spring clean or household move, choose the General or Household waste type.

• For a mix of renovation and household waste, go with Mixed Heavy or Mixed Waste with Soil.

Tip: Selecting the correct waste type before booking ensures your bin can accept all items and avoids extra charges.

No — standard skip bins and hooklift bins cannot accept food waste. It can attract pests, cause unpleasant odours, and isn’t suitable for open-top bins.

Some mobile skip bins may accept small amounts of food waste, but usually for an extra charge and with special preparation requirements.

Always call us before booking to check if your provider allows it and to get instructions on how to prepare food waste safely for disposal.

Contact us first. Some insulation may contain asbestos, while other types may attract extra charges or not be accepted.

Some waste types accept mattresses and tyres for an additional charge, but they cannot be placed in recycling bins such as Green Waste, Clean Fill, Mixed Rubble, or Excavation bins. They are also not allowed in asbestos bins.

Booking requirements:

• You must add mattresses or tyres to your booking on the order form before checkout, as extra charges apply.

Special note for Queensland:

• These items cannot be booked online. You’ll need to call us first to confirm pricing, as charges vary depending on the provider.

You generally cannot confirm the presence of asbestos just by looking at a material. Asbestos fibres are microscopic and can only be identified through proper testing and inspection by a qualified professional.

As a general guide, homes and structures built before 1990 may contain asbestos-containing materials. These are commonly found in items such as fibro wall and roof sheeting, eaves, fencing, garage and shed walls, older roofing materials, vinyl floor backing, cement driveways, and even infrastructure like older Telstra pits.

If you are unsure whether a material contains asbestos, the safest option is to treat it as asbestos and have it professionally tested before any work or disposal takes place.

These materials may contain asbestos. Even if not confirmed, waste facilities treat them as hazardous. If found in a bin, the load may need testing, quarantining, or may even be returned, all at extra cost.
If you are sure the material is non-hazardous, call us so we can match you with a provider who accepts it. Do not book online as not all providers will take it.

You cannot book this online. Many providers won’t accept it, even with certification. Call us so we can check for a provider who will.

No – you’ll need to call our office to have this added to your order prior to booking, as pricing varies between providers and across states.

No, not online. Synthetic grass can be added, but you’ll need to call our office before booking. Extra charges apply, and we’ll find you the best rate

No — chemicals and their containers are not allowed in any skip bin. This includes paints, solvents, cleaning chemicals, pesticides, and other hazardous liquids or powders. These materials are dangerous and require special disposal.

To dispose of chemicals safely and legally, contact your local council. Many councils run free chemical drop-off events where residents can safely dispose of household chemicals.

Never place chemicals in a skip bin, as this can pose serious health, safety, and environmental risks and may result in fines or refusal of collection.

Choosing the right waste type matters because skip providers price and plan based on what you say you’re putting in the bin. If you book General Waste but load it with renovation or heavy materials, you can end up with extra charges.

It also affects the truck sent to collect your bin. If the waste is heavier than expected (like soil), the driver may not be able to take it due to weight limits — which can mean delays and added costs.

Picking the right waste type upfront helps you get the best price and avoids surprises.

Not sure? Give us a call before booking — it’s much safer than guessing.

You may request a preferred delivery time, however specific delivery times are not guaranteed.

Skip bin providers operate as transport companies and deliveries must be scheduled in a way that allows trucks to operate at full capacity. Jobs are allocated by location and route, not by individual time slots. Sending multiple trucks to the same area or returning to the same location is not feasible and affects service across all customers.

If you require a bin to be on site early in the morning, you should book the delivery for the day prior.

No — you don’t need to be home for delivery or collection, as long as there is clear and safe access to the placement area.

Please make sure the delivery location is easy to access and free from vehicles, obstacles, or low-hanging branches. If you have any specific placement instructions, it helps to include these when booking.

We also recommend being available by phone on the delivery or pickup day, just in case the driver needs to confirm placement or access. If access isn’t available or we’re unable to make contact, the service may be delayed or rescheduled, and this may result in a call-out fee.

• Marrel trucks: Require a minimum of 6 metres of clear access to deliver and place the bin.

• Hooklift trucks: Require a minimum of 6 - 8 metres of clear access.

If the driver cannot safely place the bin due to limited space, obstacles, or other access issues, a call-out fee will apply, and the delivery may need to be rescheduled.

To avoid extra charges, please ensure the delivery area is clear of vehicles, low-hanging branches, fences, or other obstructions before the driver arrives.

You must ensure there is adequate access for the truck, including sufficient width, height, turning space, and a safe surface. If the bin cannot be delivered or collected due to access issues, a call-out fee will apply, and cancellation or rescheduling fees may also apply.

Generally, no. Most household garages, carports, and covered areas do not have enough overhead clearance for a skip bin truck to safely deliver and place a bin.

In some cases, commercial loading docks or larger covered areas may have enough space, but this depends on the height, width, and access for the truck. If you think your space may work, call us first to discuss your options and confirm whether delivery is possible.

Attempting delivery into a space that is too low or narrow may result in rescheduled delivery and additional fees.

Only some skip bin providers will attempt to place a bin over fences, walls, or other obstacles. Whether this can be done is decided on-site at the driver’s discretion, as it depends on the truck, access, and safety considerations.

It’s important to always have an alternative bin placement option ready. If the provider cannot safely place the bin where you want it, you will incur charges for the delivery and cancellation.

Any damage caused during placement is the customer’s responsibility, so plan carefully.

Please contact us prior to booking

Yes, however most councils require a permit and may charge a fee. Permits help ensure the bin does not block traffic, footpaths, or create safety issues.

We recommend checking with your local council before booking, as rules vary by area and fines may apply if a permit is not in place.

No — only the driver can move it

Delays can happen. Please contact us, and we’ll follow up with the provider.

As this involves transport, things can occasionally go wrong, which may delay your collection. We recommend leaving at least one business day between the bin collection and any other deliveries or collections you need to arrange.

Please allow for a margin of error.

Yes. If your bin fills up, please call us to book a changeover rather than placing a new order online. The full bin will be collected and replaced with an empty one in the same location.

Not online. Call our office and we’ll do our best. We recommend booking the bin a day earlier than needed, and allowing a buffer for collection.

Yes, skip bin companies can deliver to battle-axe properties, however access requirements are slightly different. Most battle-axe driveways have fences on both sides, so a minimum clear width of 3 - 3.5 metres is required to allow the driver to safely use their mirrors. If the access is narrower, the driver is effectively driving blind. The driveway must also be straight, with no tight turns or sharp bends, and there must be no overhanging trees, wires, or structures.

If your driveway is steep or has a sharp change in level, our Marrel trucks may not be able to enter safely due to the risk of the rear scraping on entry or exit. Hooklift trucks don’t have this issue, as they don’t have stabiliser legs that hang low at the back.

Drivers may refuse driveway placement if there is a risk of damage. Street (permit required) or flat, level placement is recommended.

If driveway placement is requested, any resulting damage is the customer’s responsibility. Please advise us at booking if your driveway is steep or has limited clearance.

If no safe alternative placement is available on arrival, a call-out fee may apply.

We recommend:

• Place the skip bin on the street (permit required) or a flat, level area where possible.

• CALL US let us know before booking if your driveway is steep or has limited clearance.

• Send photos if you’re unsure — this helps us advise before delivery.

Please understand that while Skip Bins Online and the driver will provide guidance, photos can be deceptive. The ultimate placement decision is made by the driver on the day. Always have an alternative placement ready, as fees may apply if no safe option is available.

Most companies use standard skip trucks, which generally need around 3 metres of width and about 6 metres of turning space. These trucks can service all bin sizes.

Only a few operators have smaller two-cab trucks, which can access tighter laneways or driveways—but they are usually limited to small bins only (such as 2m³ or 3m³).

Because truck sizes and access requirements vary, a previous delivery by another company does not guarantee access for example via a tight or narrow laneway for all fleets.

To avoid call-out or cancellation fees, please contact us before booking so we can confirm access and the correct truck for your location.

Yes—if the lane is wide enough and clear for truck access.

Because lanes usually have properties on both sides, a minimum of 6 metres width/turning space is generally required for a marrel truck to turn and safely rear-offload the bin. Hooklift trucks require an even larger turning circle.

If the driver cannot safely access or turn in the lane, placement may be refused.

To avoid call-out and cancellation fees, please contact us and send photos of the lane and access area prior to booking so we can confirm suitability.

Skip bin companies schedule deliveries and collections based on daily routes, not individual times. This allows them to service all customers efficiently. Both delivery and collection can occur anytime during the scheduled day, depending on operational factors.

Since delivery and collection times can vary, it’s best to plan your hire period around the full days you need the bin, not the delivery or collection day itself. This ensures you have enough time to load your waste without relying on exact truck arrival times.

Booking a skip bin is easy. Simply:

1. Enter your location.

2. Select the waste type for your rubbish

3. Select the bin size required for your project.

4. Pick your hire dates.

You will receive an instant quote.
All payments are made securely online for convenience.

If you’d rather speak to a person, our friendly team members are always on standby to take your call during business hours.

Yes — but call us first to coordinate. Our system may assign different providers, meaning multiple trucks on site.

Prices vary by location, size, and waste type. Enter your postcode to see instant prices.

We accept Mastercard, Visa and Amex, PayPal (including Pay in 4). Electronic transfers are available for bins booked in advance.
Some providers may also accept cash on delivery. Please call us cash cannot be booked online.

Yes — PayPal Pay in 4 is available

Yes — an email confirmation and tax invoice are sent after booking.

Yes — but cancellation fees may apply. Check our terms and conditions.

Any day prior to delivery: 10% of the booking total

On the day of delivery: 100% of the booking total

Please contact us as early as possible if you need to cancel or make changes.

Yes, if you give at least 24 hours’ notice.

Rescheduling the night before or on the day of delivery may incur a call-out fee, as the bin may already be loaded and the truck dispatched.

Skip bin companies prepare bins the day before delivery, so work and labour have already started organising your bin.

Cancelling at this stage means resources and staff time have already been committed, which is why fees may apply.

Yes - Payments are processed securely online through the eWAY payment gateway. All card transactions are encrypted, and Skip Bins Online does not store or retain any credit or debit card details. This ensures your payment information remains secure at all times when booking online.

No — we require upfront payment as we work differently from traditional skip bin companies. This keeps pricing simple and transparent.

Permanent bin hire isn’t generally available. Some larger providers can arrange longer hire periods (up to around a month), however this must be discussed and booked over the phone, as availability and pricing vary by provider.

Unfortunately, no, extra hire time for a skip bin is not refundable. Once the additional time has been booked, the skip bin companies cannot issue a refund for any unused portion.

We strongly recommend planning your hire period carefully to avoid unnecessary extra charges. If you’re unsure how long you’ll need the bin, it’s best to discuss your requirements with us before confirming your booking. This helps ensure you only pay for the time you actually need.

Yes but some providers charge extra. Call prior to booking so we can find you the cheapest combination

Yes, but an additional charge applies. Please call to book.

Yes. Most councils throughout Sydney require you to apply and pay for a permit. Please check with your local council before booking a bin.

No. At this time, Skip Bins Online does not have providers in Newcastle that accept asbestos waste.

Yes. You can book a skip bin for delivery to Wollongong through Skip Bins Online, and our local providers offer competitive rates for most types of waste.

Yes — most councils require permits for bins on roads or nature strips. Please check with your local council prior to booking

• In most states, the customer arranges the permit.

• In Victoria, the skip bin provider arranges it. Always call us to confirm costs before booking.

Public land is any area outside your property boundary. This includes the nature strip or verge, the driveway apron, and any part of the road.

In most cases, no. While requirements vary by council, skip bins generally must be placed at least 20 metres away from a bus stop. Always check with your local council to confirm the specific rules for your area.

No. According to RTA (Transport for NSW) technical directions, skip bins are not permitted in No Stopping, No Parking, Clearways, Loading Zones, Bus Zones, or Taxi Zones.

Skip bins must not be placed within 10 metres of a signalised intersection or 20 metres of an unsignalised intersection.

Your local council. Councils set their own rules and requirements, and these can differ between areas. It’s best to contact your council directly—especially if there are parking restrictions—so you can discuss your specific situation.

Approval times vary depending on your local council. To be safe, allow at least 5 working days for approval.
(VIC providers may submit approvals immediately.)

Permit costs differ between councils. Check with your local council prior to booking to confirm the exact fee for your area.

Skip Bins Online services most of metropolitan Melbourne, including Werribee, Sunbury, Craigieburn, Reservoir, Glen Waverley, Dandenong, Frankston, and all suburbs in between. Simply enter your suburb into our system to check availability and book a bin.

No. Skip Bins Online providers do not accept asbestos waste in any part of Victoria.

Yes. All councils in Victoria require a permit to place a skip bin on public land.

The skip bin provider submits the permit on your behalf. An additional charge applies. Please call prior to booking to confirm permit costs.

Yes, however additional charges apply. Please call before booking to ensure the correct waste type is selected.

Skip Bins Online services Brisbane and surrounding suburbs, as well as the Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast. Service availability depends on local providers in each area.

If the bin is placed on private property, a permit is usually not required.

If the bin needs to be placed on council land (road, footpath or nature strip), you’ll need to contact your local council. Permit rules and fees vary between councils.

No. Most skip bins supplied in Queensland do not have doors. Bins are open-top and loaded over the side. 

No. Mattresses and car tyres are not accepted in online bookings. Some Queensland providers will take them, but extra charges usually apply. It’s best to call to book so this can be confirmed before delivery.

Yes. Weight limits apply to certain waste types, including general waste, green waste and asbestos. These bins have a maximum allowance of 150 kg per cubic metre. Exceeding the weight limit may result in additional charges.