How do you calculate cubic yards of dirt?
Multiply the length by the width and the depth in feet. Divide the result by 27 to get cubic yards.
A 20 ft by 10 ft area at a depth of 4 in has a volume of 2.47 yd³.
| Depth | Depth in feet | Coverage per cubic yard |
|---|---|---|
| 1 in | 0.0833 ft | 324 sq ft |
| 2 in | 0.1667 ft | 162 sq ft |
| 3 in | 0.2500 ft | 108 sq ft |
| 4 in | 0.3333 ft | 81 sq ft |
| 6 in | 0.5000 ft | 54 sq ft |
| 12 in | 1.0000 ft | 27 sq ft |
The coverage values do not include settlement or overage.
Calculation steps
- Measure the length and the width in feet.
- Divide the depth in inches by 12.
- Multiply the length by the width and the depth in feet.
- Divide the cubic feet by 27.
Circle and measured area
For a circle, divide the diameter by 2. Multiply 3.1416 by the radius and the radius again.
Then, multiply the area by the depth in feet. Divide the result by 27.
If you know the square-foot area, multiply that area by the depth in feet. Then, divide by 27.
Areas that are not level
Put grade stakes at the corners and at the low areas. Measure the depth at intervals of 5 feet.
Calculate the average depth. Divide an area with an L shape into rectangles. Add the volume of each rectangle.
Settlement and overage
The first result is the specified volume. The dirt volume can decrease because of compaction.
For a settlement loss of 10%, divide the specified volume by 0.90. Add the overage after this calculation.
Use the dirt calculator to do these calculations.
Important information
- Use the same unit for each length measurement.
- Measure the depth at more than one position.
- Ask the supplier about the minimum order quantity.