How to use it
- Enter length in feet
- Enter width in feet
- Enter depth in inches
- Click calculate to see results
Fill dirt is the most common material for leveling, backfilling, and creating a solid base for landscaping projects. This free calculator turns the dimensions you enter—length and width in feet, depth in inches—into three useful results: cubic yards, cubic feet, and an approximate tonnage using the industry‑standard 1.3 US tons per cubic yard. Knowing the cubic yards helps you order the right amount of material from a supplier, while the ton estimate lets you compare pricing that’s often quoted by weight. The cubic‑feet figure is handy for on‑site measurements and for checking local regulations that may limit volume. Simply enter your numbers, hit calculate, and read the three results to plan your project with confidence. You can also round up the tonnage to account for compaction and delivery tolerances. Adding a small safety margin helps avoid shortfalls.
Pro tips
- Add 5‑10% extra for compaction and settling
- Round up to the nearest half‑ton for ordering
- Order a little more than calculated to cover spillage
- Convert depth from inches to feet before entering values
Real-life examples
- A homeowner leveling a backyard before installing a patio
- A contractor backfilling a foundation trench for a new garage
- A landscaper preparing soil for a large garden berm
Case study
Sam needed to fill a 12 ft × 15 ft patio trench 8 in deep. Using the calculator he saw the job required 4.44 cubic yards, about 5.8 tons. He ordered 6 tons, avoiding a costly second delivery and finishing the project on schedule.