Landscape suppliers sell by the cubic yard, but your tape measure gives you feet and inches. This calculator bridges that gap, converting your project area and fill depth into the cubic yards you need to order.
Area Dimensions
ft
ft
in
Scenario: You're filling a low spot in the backyard that's 15 ft x 12 ft with 6 inches of fill dirt.
Result: Area: 180 sq ft. Volume: 180 x (6/12) = 90 cubic ft. Convert: 90 / 27 = 3.3 cubic yards. Order 3.5 cubic yards to have a small buffer.
Multiply length (ft) x width (ft) x depth (ft), then divide by 27. If depth is in inches, divide the inch value by 12 first to convert to feet. Example: 20 x 10 x (6/12) / 27 = 3.7 cubic yards.
A standard single-axle dump truck holds about 5 cubic yards. A tandem axle holds 8-12 cubic yards. A tri-axle can carry 12-16 cubic yards. Ask your supplier about their truck sizes when ordering.
It varies by material. Topsoil: about 2,200 lbs. Sand: about 2,700 lbs. Gravel: about 2,800 lbs. Mulch: about 400-800 lbs. Weight matters for delivery and for knowing if your truck or trailer can handle it.
There are 27 cubic feet in one cubic yard (3 x 3 x 3). To convert cubic feet to cubic yards, divide by 27. To convert cubic yards to cubic feet, multiply by 27.
Want to learn more before you start your project?
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