How to use it
- Enter length (ft), width (ft) and depth (in).
- Click Calculate to see cubic yards, tons and cubic feet.
- Use the results to order the right amount of topsoil.
What it does – Enter the length, width, and desired depth of your planting area and the tool instantly returns the volume in cubic yards, the approximate weight in US tons (using 1.3 tons per cubic yard), and the volume in cubic feet.
Why it matters – Knowing the exact amount prevents ordering too little (which forces a second delivery) or too much (which adds unnecessary cost and waste).
How to read the results – Cubic yards is the standard unit suppliers use for pricing. Multiply the cubic‑yard figure by 1.3 to see the rough tonnage, useful when the supplier quotes by weight. Cubic feet helps you visualize the depth across the site.
Use the numbers to place an accurate order and avoid surprise fees. You can also adjust the depth to compare different landscaping plans.
Pro tips
- Add 5‑10% extra for compaction and settling
- Round up to the nearest whole cubic yard for easier ordering
- Check supplier minimums; some sell by the ton
- Double‑check depth conversion from inches to feet
Real-life examples
- Homeowner preparing a new garden bed
- Landscaper estimating material for a commercial lawn
- DIYer filling a raised patio area
Case study
Emily needed to spread a new lawn over her 15 × 20 ft backyard at a 4‑inch depth. Using the calculator she saw she required 1.85 cubic yards (≈2.4 tons). She ordered exactly that amount, avoided a costly extra truck, and completed the project on budget.