🇬🇧 United Kingdom Size guide

UK Skip Sizes - Dimensions & Capacity Guide

Use this guide to compare common skip capacities, dimensions, weight considerations, and the types of jobs each option usually suits.

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23 sizes listed
Guide
Before choosingSkip Hire
Volume is only part of the decision Heavy materials such as soil, concrete, bricks, rubble, hardcore, and dense construction waste may need a smaller container even when space is available.
Check access and placement Driveway width, road placement, permits, overhead cables, loading limits, and local operator rules can affect the best option.

Quick comparison

Compare common skip sizes at a glance

Skip size choice in the UK is usually about more than volume. The right option depends on the type of waste, where the skip can be placed, whether a permit is needed, and how heavy the load is likely to become.

Use the live catalogue below to compare common skip sizes, dimensions, capacities and typical uses before checking local availability for your address.

Use this overview to narrow the choice, then open a size for its full specifications. Dimensions are typical and can vary between suppliers, product designs, and locations.

Size Capacity Typical dimensions
2 CUBIC YARD SKIP A 2 yd³ mini skip for small household clear-outs, garden waste and light DIY rubbish, holding around 20 bin bags and... 2 yd³ 4.0 ft L x 3.0 ft W x 2.5 ft H View
3 CUBIC YARD SKIP 3 yard mini skip hire for small home clear-outs, DIY projects and garden waste. 3 yd³ 4.6 ft L x 3.3 ft W x 3.0 ft H View
4 CUBIC YARD SKIP 4 yard midi skip hire ideal for home renovations, DIY projects, garden clearances and small household clear-outs. 4 yd³ 6.0 ft L x 4.2 ft W x 3.2 ft H View
5 CUBIC YARD SKIP 5 yard skip hire perfect for medium home clear-outs, DIY renovations and garden waste. 5 yd³ 7.0 ft L x 5.0 ft W x 3.5 ft H View
6 CUBIC YARD SKIP 6 yard builders skip hire ideal for large household clear-outs, building waste and renovation projects. 6 yd³ 8.5 ft L x 5.5 ft W x 4.0 ft H View
6 CUBIC YARD LIDDED SKIP 6 yard lidded skip hire for secure waste storage, commercial waste and business premises. 6 yd³ 8.5 ft L x 5.5 ft W x 4.9 ft H View
7 CUBIC YARD SKIP 7 yard skip hire ideal for large DIY projects, house clear-outs and renovation waste. 7 yd³ 8.5 ft L x 5.5 ft W x 4.1 ft H View
8 CUBIC YARD SKIP 8 yard builders skip hire ideal for large household clear-outs, construction waste and renovation projects. 8 yd³ 11 ft L x 5.5 ft W x 4.5 ft H View
8 CUBIC YARD LIDDED SKIP 8 yard lidded skip hire ideal for secure commercial waste disposal and business waste storage. 8 yd³ 11.0 ft L x 5.5 ft W x 5.2 ft H View
10 CUBIC YARD SKIP 10 yard skip hire ideal for bulky waste, large renovations and commercial clear-outs. 10 yd³ 11 ft L x 5.5 ft W x 5.0 ft H View
10 CUBIC YARD LIDDED SKIP 10 yard lidded skip hire for secure business waste management and commercial waste disposal. 10 yd³ 11.0 ft L x 5.5 ft W x 5.6 ft H View
12 CUBIC YARD SKIP 12 yard skip hire perfect for bulky waste disposal, house renovations and commercial clear-outs. 12 yd³ 12.1 ft L x 5.8 ft W x 5.5 ft H View
12 CUBIC YARD LIDDED SKIP 12 yard lidded skip hire ideal for large commercial waste volumes and secure waste storage. 12 yd³ 12.1 ft L x 5.8 ft W x 6.1 ft H View
14 CUBIC YARD SKIP 14 yard skip hire ideal for large commercial waste, bulky furniture disposal and major building projects. 14 yd³ 12.1 ft L x 5.8 ft W x 6.0 ft H View
14 CUBIC YARD LIDDED SKIP 14 yard lidded skip hire for high-volume commercial waste disposal and secure waste containment. 14 yd³ 12.1 ft L x 5.8 ft W x 6.6 ft H View
15 CUBIC YARD RORO SKIP 15 yard RoRo skip hire ideal for construction waste, commercial clear-outs and large bulky waste disposal. 15 yd³ 20.0 ft L x 8.2 ft W x 4.9 ft H View
16 CUBIC YARD SKIP 16 yard skip hire ideal for commercial waste, shop refits and large building projects. 16 yd³ 12.8 ft L x 5.8 ft W x 6.6 ft H View
16 CUBIC YARD LIDDED SKIP 16 yard lidded skip hire ideal for large commercial waste volumes and secure waste management. 16 yd³ 12.8 ft L x 5.8 ft W x 6.9 ft H View
20 CUBIC YARD RORO SKIP 20 yard RoRo skip hire for construction waste, commercial projects and large-scale waste disposal. 20 yd³ 20 ft L x 8.2 ft W x 5.9 ft H View
25 CUBIC YARD RORO SKIP 25 yard RoRo skip hire ideal for industrial waste, demolition debris and large commercial projects. 25 yd³ 20 ft L x 8.2 ft W x 6.9 ft H View
30 CUBIC YARD RORO SKIP 30 yard RoRo skip hire perfect for large construction sites, demolition waste and bulky commercial waste. 30 yd³ 20 ft L x 8.2 ft W x 7.5 ft H View
35 CUBIC YARD RORO SKIP 35 yard RoRo skip hire ideal for high-volume commercial waste, construction sites and demolition projects. 35 yd³ 21.3 ft L x 8.2 ft W x 8.0 ft H View
40 CUBIC YARD RORO SKIP 40 yard RoRo skip hire for large commercial waste, demolition debris and industrial waste disposal. 40 yd³ 21.3 ft L x 8.2 ft W x 8.5 ft H View
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Full catalogue

Skip sizes and specifications

Compare the live product catalogue below. Final availability, exact dimensions, accepted waste, and load rules depend on the supplier serving your address.

2 CUBIC YARD SKIP Skip

2 CUBIC YARD SKIP

A 2 yd³ mini skip for small household clear-outs, garden waste and light DIY rubbish, holding around 20 bin bags and suited to driveways or tight spaces.

Capacity 2 yd³ 1.53 m³
Typical dimensions 4.0 ft L x 3.0 ft W x 2.5 ft H 1.20 m L x 0.90 m W x 0.76 m H
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3 CUBIC YARD SKIP Skip

3 CUBIC YARD SKIP

3 yard mini skip hire for small home clear-outs, DIY projects and garden waste. Holds around 30 bin bags and fits easily on most driveways.

Capacity 3 yd³ 2.29 m³
Typical dimensions 4.6 ft L x 3.3 ft W x 3.0 ft H 1.40 m L x 1.00 m W x 0.90 m H
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4 CUBIC YARD SKIP Skip

4 CUBIC YARD SKIP

4 yard midi skip hire ideal for home renovations, DIY projects, garden clearances and small household clear-outs.

Capacity 4 yd³ 3.06 m³
Typical dimensions 6.0 ft L x 4.2 ft W x 3.2 ft H 1.83 m L x 1.29 m W x 0.97 m H
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5 CUBIC YARD SKIP Skip

5 CUBIC YARD SKIP

5 yard skip hire perfect for medium home clear-outs, DIY renovations and garden waste. Holds around 50 bin bags and fits on most driveways.

Capacity 5 yd³ 3.82 m³
Typical dimensions 7.0 ft L x 5.0 ft W x 3.5 ft H 2.13 m L x 1.52 m W x 1.07 m H
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6 CUBIC YARD SKIP Skip

6 CUBIC YARD SKIP

6 yard builders skip hire ideal for large household clear-outs, building waste and renovation projects. Holds around 60 bin bags of waste.

Capacity 6 yd³ 4.59 m³
Typical dimensions 8.5 ft L x 5.5 ft W x 4.0 ft H 2.60 m L x 1.68 m W x 1.22 m H
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6 CUBIC YARD LIDDED SKIP Skip

6 CUBIC YARD LIDDED SKIP

6 yard lidded skip hire for secure waste storage, commercial waste and business premises.

Capacity 6 yd³ 4.59 m³
Typical dimensions 8.5 ft L x 5.5 ft W x 4.9 ft H 2.60 m L x 1.68 m W x 1.50 m H
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7 CUBIC YARD SKIP Skip

7 CUBIC YARD SKIP

7 yard skip hire ideal for large DIY projects, house clear-outs and renovation waste. Holds around 70 bin bags and fits on most driveways.

Capacity 7 yd³ 5.35 m³
Typical dimensions 8.5 ft L x 5.5 ft W x 4.1 ft H 2.60 m L x 1.68 m W x 1.25 m H
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8 CUBIC YARD SKIP Skip

8 CUBIC YARD SKIP

8 yard builders skip hire ideal for large household clear-outs, construction waste and renovation projects. Holds around 80 bin bags.

Capacity 8 yd³ 6.12 m³
Typical dimensions 11 ft L x 5.5 ft W x 4.5 ft H 3.35 m L x 1.68 m W x 1.37 m H
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8 CUBIC YARD LIDDED SKIP Skip

8 CUBIC YARD LIDDED SKIP

8 yard lidded skip hire ideal for secure commercial waste disposal and business waste storage.

Capacity 8 yd³ 6.12 m³
Typical dimensions 11.0 ft L x 5.5 ft W x 5.2 ft H 3.35 m L x 1.68 m W x 1.60 m H
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10 CUBIC YARD SKIP Skip

10 CUBIC YARD SKIP

10 yard skip hire ideal for bulky waste, large renovations and commercial clear-outs. Holds around 100 bin bags of waste.

Capacity 10 yd³ 7.65 m³
Typical dimensions 11 ft L x 5.5 ft W x 5.0 ft H 3.35 m L x 1.68 m W x 1.52 m H
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10 CUBIC YARD LIDDED SKIP Skip

10 CUBIC YARD LIDDED SKIP

10 yard lidded skip hire for secure business waste management and commercial waste disposal.

Capacity 10 yd³ 7.65 m³
Typical dimensions 11.0 ft L x 5.5 ft W x 5.6 ft H 3.35 m L x 1.68 m W x 1.70 m H
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12 CUBIC YARD SKIP Skip

12 CUBIC YARD SKIP

12 yard skip hire perfect for bulky waste disposal, house renovations and commercial clear-outs. Holds around 120 bin bags.

Capacity 12 yd³ 9.18 m³
Typical dimensions 12.1 ft L x 5.8 ft W x 5.5 ft H 3.70 m L x 1.78 m W x 1.68 m H
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12 CUBIC YARD LIDDED SKIP Skip

12 CUBIC YARD LIDDED SKIP

12 yard lidded skip hire ideal for large commercial waste volumes and secure waste storage.

Capacity 12 yd³ 9.18 m³
Typical dimensions 12.1 ft L x 5.8 ft W x 6.1 ft H 3.70 m L x 1.78 m W x 1.85 m H
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14 CUBIC YARD SKIP Skip

14 CUBIC YARD SKIP

14 yard skip hire ideal for large commercial waste, bulky furniture disposal and major building projects.

Capacity 14 yd³ 10.7 m³
Typical dimensions 12.1 ft L x 5.8 ft W x 6.0 ft H 3.70 m L x 1.78 m W x 1.83 m H
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14 CUBIC YARD LIDDED SKIP Skip

14 CUBIC YARD LIDDED SKIP

14 yard lidded skip hire for high-volume commercial waste disposal and secure waste containment.

Capacity 14 yd³ 10.7 m³
Typical dimensions 12.1 ft L x 5.8 ft W x 6.6 ft H 3.70 m L x 1.78 m W x 2.00 m H
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15 CUBIC YARD RORO SKIP RoRo

15 CUBIC YARD RORO SKIP

15 yard RoRo skip hire ideal for construction waste, commercial clear-outs and large bulky waste disposal.

Capacity 15 yd³ 11.47 m³
Typical dimensions 20.0 ft L x 8.2 ft W x 4.9 ft H 6.10 m L x 2.50 m W x 1.50 m H
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16 CUBIC YARD SKIP Skip

16 CUBIC YARD SKIP

16 yard skip hire ideal for commercial waste, shop refits and large building projects. Holds around 160 bin bags.

Capacity 16 yd³ 12.24 m³
Typical dimensions 12.8 ft L x 5.8 ft W x 6.6 ft H 3.90 m L x 1.78 m W x 2.00 m H
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16 CUBIC YARD LIDDED SKIP Skip

16 CUBIC YARD LIDDED SKIP

16 yard lidded skip hire ideal for large commercial waste volumes and secure waste management.

Capacity 16 yd³ 12.24 m³
Typical dimensions 12.8 ft L x 5.8 ft W x 6.9 ft H 3.90 m L x 1.78 m W x 2.10 m H
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20 CUBIC YARD RORO SKIP RoRo

20 CUBIC YARD RORO SKIP

20 yard RoRo skip hire for construction waste, commercial projects and large-scale waste disposal.

Capacity 20 yd³ 15.29 m³
Typical dimensions 20 ft L x 8.2 ft W x 5.9 ft H 6.10 m L x 2.50 m W x 1.80 m H
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25 CUBIC YARD RORO SKIP RoRo

25 CUBIC YARD RORO SKIP

25 yard RoRo skip hire ideal for industrial waste, demolition debris and large commercial projects.

Capacity 25 yd³ 19.11 m³
Typical dimensions 20 ft L x 8.2 ft W x 6.9 ft H 6.10 m L x 2.50 m W x 2.10 m H
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30 CUBIC YARD RORO SKIP RoRo

30 CUBIC YARD RORO SKIP

30 yard RoRo skip hire perfect for large construction sites, demolition waste and bulky commercial waste.

Capacity 30 yd³ 22.94 m³
Typical dimensions 20 ft L x 8.2 ft W x 7.5 ft H 6.10 m L x 2.50 m W x 2.30 m H
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35 CUBIC YARD RORO SKIP RoRo

35 CUBIC YARD RORO SKIP

35 yard RoRo skip hire ideal for high-volume commercial waste, construction sites and demolition projects.

Capacity 35 yd³ 26.76 m³
Typical dimensions 21.3 ft L x 8.2 ft W x 8.0 ft H 6.50 m L x 2.50 m W x 2.45 m H
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40 CUBIC YARD RORO SKIP RoRo

40 CUBIC YARD RORO SKIP

40 yard RoRo skip hire for large commercial waste, demolition debris and industrial waste disposal.

Capacity 40 yd³ 30.58 m³
Typical dimensions 21.3 ft L x 8.2 ft W x 8.5 ft H 6.50 m L x 2.50 m W x 2.60 m H
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Alternative for heavy waste

Grab-lorry collection

A grab lorry is a collection alternative rather than a skip size. It can suit loose soil, rubble and other heavy materials when there is suitable vehicle access and the waste can be reached safely.

Heavy-waste alternative

6 WHEEL GRAB

6 wheel grab lorry hire ideal for removing soil, hardcore, concrete and construction waste. Perfect for site clearances and bulk material collection.

View collection details

Before you choose

What to check before choosing a skip

Heavy waste can reduce the sensible size

Soil, concrete, bricks, rubble and hardcore can hit weight limits before a larger skip is full. For dense loads, a smaller skip or quote-first route is often safer.

Road placement may need a permit

If a skip needs to be placed on a public road rather than private land, a skip permit is normally required. Permit arrangements, lead times, charges, lights and safety-marking requirements vary by local authority and supplier.

Dimensions vary by supplier

The measurements are a practical guide. The exact unit delivered can vary, so confirm the final dimensions, accepted waste and placement rules when booking.

Comparison table

Full skip dimensions

Dimensions are typical comparison guidance and can vary between suppliers and product designs. Confirm the supplied unit and placement requirements for your address.

Size Capacity Length Width Height
2 CUBIC YARD SKIP 2 yd³ 1.53 m³ 4.0 ft 1.20 m 3.0 ft 0.90 m 2.5 ft 0.76 m
3 CUBIC YARD SKIP 3 yd³ 2.29 m³ 4.6 ft 1.40 m 3.3 ft 1.00 m 3.0 ft 0.90 m
4 CUBIC YARD SKIP 4 yd³ 3.06 m³ 6.0 ft 1.83 m 4.2 ft 1.29 m 3.2 ft 0.97 m
5 CUBIC YARD SKIP 5 yd³ 3.82 m³ 7.0 ft 2.13 m 5.0 ft 1.52 m 3.5 ft 1.07 m
6 CUBIC YARD SKIP 6 yd³ 4.59 m³ 8.5 ft 2.60 m 5.5 ft 1.68 m 4.0 ft 1.22 m
6 CUBIC YARD LIDDED SKIP 6 yd³ 4.59 m³ 8.5 ft 2.60 m 5.5 ft 1.68 m 4.9 ft 1.50 m
7 CUBIC YARD SKIP 7 yd³ 5.35 m³ 8.5 ft 2.60 m 5.5 ft 1.68 m 4.1 ft 1.25 m
8 CUBIC YARD SKIP 8 yd³ 6.12 m³ 11 ft 3.35 m 5.5 ft 1.68 m 4.5 ft 1.37 m
8 CUBIC YARD LIDDED SKIP 8 yd³ 6.12 m³ 11.0 ft 3.35 m 5.5 ft 1.68 m 5.2 ft 1.60 m
10 CUBIC YARD SKIP 10 yd³ 7.65 m³ 11 ft 3.35 m 5.5 ft 1.68 m 5.0 ft 1.52 m
10 CUBIC YARD LIDDED SKIP 10 yd³ 7.65 m³ 11.0 ft 3.35 m 5.5 ft 1.68 m 5.6 ft 1.70 m
12 CUBIC YARD SKIP 12 yd³ 9.18 m³ 12.1 ft 3.70 m 5.8 ft 1.78 m 5.5 ft 1.68 m
12 CUBIC YARD LIDDED SKIP 12 yd³ 9.18 m³ 12.1 ft 3.70 m 5.8 ft 1.78 m 6.1 ft 1.85 m
14 CUBIC YARD SKIP 14 yd³ 10.7 m³ 12.1 ft 3.70 m 5.8 ft 1.78 m 6.0 ft 1.83 m
14 CUBIC YARD LIDDED SKIP 14 yd³ 10.7 m³ 12.1 ft 3.70 m 5.8 ft 1.78 m 6.6 ft 2.00 m
15 CUBIC YARD RORO SKIP 15 yd³ 11.47 m³ 20.0 ft 6.10 m 8.2 ft 2.50 m 4.9 ft 1.50 m
16 CUBIC YARD SKIP 16 yd³ 12.24 m³ 12.8 ft 3.90 m 5.8 ft 1.78 m 6.6 ft 2.00 m
16 CUBIC YARD LIDDED SKIP 16 yd³ 12.24 m³ 12.8 ft 3.90 m 5.8 ft 1.78 m 6.9 ft 2.10 m
20 CUBIC YARD RORO SKIP 20 yd³ 15.29 m³ 20 ft 6.10 m 8.2 ft 2.50 m 5.9 ft 1.80 m
25 CUBIC YARD RORO SKIP 25 yd³ 19.11 m³ 20 ft 6.10 m 8.2 ft 2.50 m 6.9 ft 2.10 m
30 CUBIC YARD RORO SKIP 30 yd³ 22.94 m³ 20 ft 6.10 m 8.2 ft 2.50 m 7.5 ft 2.30 m
35 CUBIC YARD RORO SKIP 35 yd³ 26.76 m³ 21.3 ft 6.50 m 8.2 ft 2.50 m 8.0 ft 2.45 m
40 CUBIC YARD RORO SKIP 40 yd³ 30.58 m³ 21.3 ft 6.50 m 8.2 ft 2.50 m 8.5 ft 2.60 m

Weight limits: Permitted waste weight varies by supplier, container type, vehicle, and waste stream. Heavy materials such as soil, concrete, bricks, and rubble may require smaller or dedicated heavy-waste containers.

Choosing a size

What skip size do I need?

Start with the waste, not just the volume

Choose by both the amount and type of waste. Bulky, light items may suit a larger skip; dense loads such as soil, bricks, concrete, rubble, and hardcore are often restricted to smaller sizes.

Check the actual footprint

Compare the listed length and width with the placement area, then allow working room for delivery, collection, doors, gates, and safe loading.

Dimensions can vary between suppliers

Catalogue measurements are a comparison guide. The unit supplied locally may differ, so confirm the final dimensions and permitted waste when you check availability for your address.

Road placement may need permission

A skip placed on a public road may require a permit and safety equipment. Rules, lead times, and charges vary by local authority and supplier.

FAQs

UK skip size FAQs

These questions help avoid the most common skip sizing mistakes.

What skip size do I need?

Start with the waste type and amount. Light bulky waste may need more volume, while soil, rubble and concrete often need a smaller skip because of weight limits.

What are the most common UK skip sizes?

Common household and trade options include 2 and 3 yard mini skips, 4 and 5 yard midi skips, and 6 or 8 yard builders' skips. Larger enclosed, open and RoRo containers are available for higher-volume work, depending on the supplier and address.

Is a 4 yard skip a builders' skip?

A 4 yard skip is more commonly described as a midi skip and often suits DIY jobs, small renovations, garden clearances and household clear-outs. The 6 and 8 yard sizes are more commonly referred to as builders' skips.

Can soil, concrete and rubble go in any skip?

Not always. Dense materials can reach vehicle and supplier weight limits before a skip is full, so a smaller skip, dedicated heavy-waste option or grab-lorry collection may be more suitable.

Do I need a permit for a skip on the road?

Usually, yes. A skip placed on a public road normally needs local authority permission, while placement on suitable private land is generally simpler. Arrangements, charges and lead times vary locally.

Can I fill a skip to the top?

No. Skips should be loaded level with the sides so they can be transported safely. Overfilled skips may be refused or need material removed.

Are skip dimensions always exact?

No. Dimensions can vary by manufacturer and supplier. Use them for comparison, then confirm the exact unit for your address.

What is a Roll-on Roll-off (RoRo) skip?

A Roll-on Roll-off (RoRo) container is a larger waste container used for high-volume commercial, industrial, construction and major clearance work. It needs substantially more delivery and placement space than a conventional skip.

When is a grab lorry better than a skip?

A grab lorry can suit loose soil, hardcore, bricks, concrete and rubble when mechanical loading is practical and there is suitable vehicle access. It is an alternative collection route rather than a skip size.

Next steps

Continue planning your skip hire

Skip Hire Check local availability, placement, waste types, and booking options. Skip Hire guides Read practical guidance about waste, access, placement, and choosing a service. Compare local areas Find local service pages without turning this guide into a long directory.