Hiring a skip bin is one of the most effective ways to deal with waste during a renovation, garden project, or commercial clean-up. But while it’s convenient, the costs can add up quickly if you’re not careful. The good news? With a little planning, you can find cheap skip bins that don’t compromise on quality or service.
In this guide, we’ll share five proven tips to save money on skip bin hire in Australia, while still ensuring you get reliable and professional waste removal.
Tip 1: Choose the Right Skip Bin Size
One of the most common ways people overspend on skip bin hire prices is by choosing the wrong size. If you hire a bin that’s too small, you’ll end up ordering a second one. On the other hand, if you book a bin that’s far too big, you’ll be paying for space you don’t use.
Average Skip Bin Prices by Size in Australia:
- 2m³ – 3m³ Mini Bins: $150 – $250 (ideal for small home clean-ups or garden waste)
- 4m³ – 6m³ Medium Bins: $250 – $400 (perfect for kitchen renovations or moving house)
- 8m³ – 10m³ Large Bins: $400 – $700 (suited for major renovations and construction projects)
- 12m³+ Extra-Large Bins: $700+ (best for commercial or building site waste)
💡 How to save: Make a rough estimate of your rubbish before you book. Flatten boxes, break down bulky items, and think about how much space the waste will actually take up. Many providers also offer size guides to help you choose the most cost-effective option.
Tip 2: Separate Your Waste Types
Not all rubbish costs the same to dispose of. Skip bin companies charge more for mixed waste (e.g., combining heavy materials like bricks and concrete with general household rubbish) because it requires sorting and heavier tipping fees.
Types of Waste and Their Cost Impact:
- General Waste: Cheapest option, covers furniture, appliances, plastics, and household junk.
- Green Waste: Affordable, as it’s recycled into mulch or compost.
- Heavy Waste: Bricks, concrete, rubble, and soil are more expensive due to weight restrictions.
- Mixed Waste: The most costly, since it combines multiple waste types.
💡 How to save: If possible, separate your rubbish into different bins or book a bin specifically for one type of waste. For example, if you only have garden clippings, a green waste skip is far cheaper than a general mixed bin.
Tip 3: Compare Skip Bin Providers and Read the Fine Print
It’s tempting to just book the first skip bin company you find, but prices vary widely between providers. Some companies advertise cheap skip bins but add hidden fees later, while others may include everything upfront.
What to Compare When Shopping for Skip Bin Deals:
- Delivery and pickup costs: Some providers charge extra for transport.
- Hire duration: Standard hire is 3–7 days, but extensions may cost extra.
- Weight limits: Exceeding the limit can lead to expensive surcharges.
- Restricted items: Mattresses, tyres, and e-waste often attract extra fees.
💡 How to save: Always compare skip bin hire prices from at least three providers in your area. Look for transparent pricing with no hidden costs. Reading reviews also helps you find reliable companies that deliver on time and provide good customer service.
Tip 4: Share a Skip Bin with Neighbours or Colleagues
If you don’t have enough rubbish to fill a bin yourself, why not split the cost with someone else? Neighbours, family, or nearby businesses may also have waste to get rid of.
Sharing a bin not only cuts costs but also reduces the number of bins required in your area, which is better for the environment.
💡 How to save: Speak with neighbours ahead of time and agree on the bin size and cost split. A 6m³ bin shared between two households is usually much cheaper than each person hiring a 3m³ bin separately.
Tip 5: Plan Ahead and Use Your Bin Efficiently
Poor planning can lead to unnecessary costs. For example, hiring a bin too early means it may sit empty while you prepare your rubbish, and hiring one too late may force you to extend the rental period.
Smart Planning Tips:
- Book in advance: Some providers offer discounts for early bookings.
- Schedule deliveries strategically: Have your bin delivered the day before your clean-up starts.
- Pack efficiently: Place heavy items at the bottom, flatten bulky waste, and fill gaps with smaller items. This ensures you maximise the space without overloading.
💡 How to save: Efficient packing can sometimes reduce the bin size you need, lowering your overall cost. Planning also ensures you only hire the bin for as long as necessary, avoiding extra daily or weekly charges.
Bonus Tip: Avoid Restricted Items
Certain materials cannot go in standard skip bins—like asbestos, chemicals, batteries, paint, gas bottles, and tyres. Putting these in your bin could result in fines or additional charges from the provider.
Instead, check with your local council or waste facility for proper disposal methods. This saves money and ensures safe, eco-friendly waste management.
Final Thoughts
Finding affordable skip bins doesn’t mean you need to settle for poor service. By choosing the right bin size, separating waste, comparing providers, sharing costs, and planning ahead, you can keep your skip bin hire prices low without sacrificing convenience or reliability.
Skip bins are one of the most efficient waste management solutions in Australia, offering both homeowners and businesses a hassle-free way to handle rubbish. With these money-saving tips, you’ll not only secure the best skip bin deals but also enjoy peace of mind knowing your waste is being managed responsibly.