Free Tool
Dirt Volume Calculator
Calculate how many cubic yards of fill dirt, topsoil, or gravel you need. Includes compaction factor and weight estimates.
0% (no extra)10% (standard)25% (heavy compaction)
How to Calculate Cubic Yards
The formula is simple: Cubic Yards = (Length × Width × Depth in feet) ÷ 27. There are 27 cubic feet in one cubic yard.
If your depth is in inches, divide by 12 first to convert to feet. For example, 6 inches = 0.5 feet.
Always add 10-15% for compaction. When fill dirt is compacted (as it should be for structural applications), it loses volume. Ordering extra prevents a second delivery.
Common Project Estimates
| Project | Typical Size | Cubic Yards |
|---|---|---|
| Raise yard 6 inches | 2,000 sq ft | ~41 CY |
| Backfill foundation | 120 ft × 2 ft × 4 ft | ~36 CY |
| Fill swimming pool | 12 × 24 × 5 ft avg | ~53 CY |
| Landscape bed prep | 200 sq ft × 8 inches | ~5 CY |
| Driveway base | 40 × 12 ft × 6 inches | ~9 CY |
| French drain trench | 100 ft × 1 ft × 2 ft | ~7 CY |
Material Weight Reference
| Material | Weight per CY | Typical Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Clean fill dirt | 2,200 lbs | Free-$15/CY |
| Topsoil | 1,800 lbs | $15-40/CY |
| Clay | 2,500 lbs | $5-20/CY |
| Sand | 2,700 lbs | $15-30/CY |
| Gravel | 2,800 lbs | $20-45/CY |
| Crushed rock | 2,600 lbs | $5-20/CY |
| Mixed fill | 2,100 lbs | $5-20/CY |