Cubic Yard Topsoil Calculator

Instantly calculate how many cubic yards of topsoil you need, plus tons and cubic feet, for free.

  • Free
  • No sign-up
  • Instant results

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How to use it

  1. Enter length in feet
  2. Enter width in feet
  3. Enter depth in inches
  4. Read cubic yards, tons and cubic feet results

What the calculator does

It converts the dimensions of your planting area (length × width × depth) into three practical units: cubic yards, cubic feet, and an estimated weight in US tons. Knowing the exact volume helps you order the right amount of topsoil, avoiding costly over‑orders or shortfalls. The result is shown instantly—no manual math required.

How to read the output

  • Cubic yards – the standard ordering unit for bulk soil.
  • Tons – weight estimate using 1.3 tons per cubic yard.
  • Cubic feet – useful for small‑scale projects or comparing with bagged soil.

Example: 20 ft × 15 ft × 6 in → 150 ft³ → 5.56 yd³ → ≈7.2 tons.

Pro tips

  • Add 5‑10% extra for compaction and settling
  • Round up to the nearest whole cubic yard when ordering
  • Order in bulk to reduce delivery fees
  • Double‑check depth units; inches must be converted to feet internally

Real-life examples

  • Landscaping a new garden bed
  • Refilling a lawn after reseeding
  • Preparing a foundation pad for a shed

Case study

Sarah needed a 20 × 15 ft garden with a 6‑in depth. The calculator showed 5.6 cubic yards (≈7.3 tons). She ordered 6 cubic yards, avoiding a shortfall and saving on a second delivery.

Frequently asked questions

How do I convert the calculator’s result to bagged soil?
Divide the cubic feet result by the bag’s volume (e.g., a 1 ft³ bag) to know how many bags you need.
Why does the weight use 1.3 tons per cubic yard?
1.3 tons is the industry average for moist topsoil, giving a close‑enough estimate for ordering.
Can I use the calculator for sand or gravel?
Yes, but adjust the weight per cubic yard to the material’s specific density.
What if my area isn’t a perfect rectangle?
Break the space into smaller rectangles, calculate each, then add the results.
Do I need to account for slope?
Include the average depth across the slope; the calculator assumes a uniform depth.