What is the weight of one cubic yard of dirt?
The weight changes with the material, water, stones, and organic material.
The calculator uses 2,200 lb/yd³ for screened topsoil and 2,400 lb/yd³ for fill dirt.
| Material | One cubic yard | US tons | Kilograms |
|---|---|---|---|
| Garden soil mix | 1,800 lb | 0.90 | 816 kg |
| Screened topsoil | 2,200 lb | 1.10 | 998 kg |
| Fill dirt | 2,400 lb | 1.20 | 1,089 kg |
These values are estimates. Water and soil texture can cause a large change in weight.
Weight calculation
Multiply the cubic-yard quantity by the density in pounds per cubic yard.
For example, 2.5 yd³ of dirt at 2,200 lb/yd³ has a weight of 5,500 lb.
Cause of the weight change
Water increases the weight. Stones and mineral particles can also increase the bulk density.
Organic material and spaces between particles can decrease the bulk density. Compaction can decrease these spaces.
The USDA NRCS bulk-density guide gives information about soil texture, water, and bulk density.
Supplier density
Ask the supplier for the weight of one cubic yard. Use that value when it is available.
Make sure that the value applies to the material and water condition in your order.
Load safety
Compare the calculated weight with the vehicle payload limit. Read Can you put one cubic yard of dirt in a pickup truck? before transport.
Important information
- Do not use a volume value as a weight value.
- Use the supplier weight for a transport decision.
- Include people and other cargo in the vehicle load.