How to use it
- Enter length in feet.
- Enter width in feet.
- Enter depth in inches.
- Read cubic yards, tons, and cubic feet results.
This calculator turns the three dimensions of your garden bed into the exact volume of topsoil you must order. You input length and width in feet and depth in inches; the tool converts depth to feet, multiplies the three numbers to get cubic feet, then divides by 27 for cubic yards. Because topsoil typically weighs about 1.3 US tons per cubic yard, the calculator also shows an approximate tonnage. Knowing these three figures helps you avoid ordering too little (which stalls planting) or too much (which wastes money and space). The results appear instantly, so you can compare quotes, adjust dimensions, or add a waste factor before calling a supplier. Cubic yards tell you how many full‑size loads to expect; tons give you a weight reference for transport limits; cubic feet is useful for smaller projects or when a supplier quotes by the foot.
Pro tips
- Add 5‑10% extra volume to cover settling and compaction.
- Round up to the nearest 0.5 cubic yard for easier ordering.
- Order by weight if the supplier charges per ton; use the ton estimate.
- Double‑check depth conversion; 12 in = 1 ft before multiplying.
Real-life examples
- A homeowner plans a 10 × 12 ft garden bed 6 in deep and needs to know how much topsoil to order.
- A landscaper prepares a 20 × 30 ft lawn renovation and must estimate delivery weight for the truck.
- A DIY enthusiast wants to fill a raised planter 4 × 4 ft at 8 in depth and compares supplier quotes.
Case study
Maria entered 10 ft × 12 ft × 6 in for her new vegetable plot. The calculator showed 2.22 cubic yards (≈2.9 tons). She ordered 2.5 cubic yards, saved $120 on excess soil, and had enough material after settling.