How to use it
- Enter length in feet.
- Enter width in feet.
- Enter depth in inches.
- Click Calculate to see cubic yards, cubic feet, and tons.
What it does – you input the length, width and depth of the area you plan to fill. The tool converts those dimensions to cubic feet, then to cubic yards, and finally multiplies cubic yards by 1.3 to give an approximate tonnage. Why it matters – knowing volume prevents over‑ordering, saves money, and ensures you have enough material for a stable base. Reading the results – Cubic feet is the raw volume, Cubic yards is the standard ordering unit for bulk dirt, and Tons helps you compare weight‑based delivery fees. Use the numbers to request quotes, schedule deliveries, and add a 5‑10 % waste factor. The calculator works instantly in your browser, so you never need to download software or call a contractor for a rough estimate. It’s useful for landscaping, building foundations, garden beds, and driveway repairs. By converting depth from inches to feet internally, the results stay accurate without extra math on your part.
Pro tips
- Add 5‑10 % extra volume for compaction and spillage.
- Round up to the nearest whole cubic yard when ordering bulk.
- Compare tonnage quotes from suppliers to choose the best price per ton.
- Double‑check depth measurement; a common mistake is using feet instead of inches.
Real-life examples
- Planning a new garden bed that’s 12 ft long, 8 ft wide, and 6 in deep.
- Estimating dirt for a 20 ft by 30 ft driveway base with a 4 in thickness.
- Calculating fill material for a backyard slope repair measuring 15 ft × 10 ft × 8 in.
Case study
Sam needed to fill a 10 ft × 12 ft patio area 5 in deep. Using the calculator he saw he required 2.2 cubic yards (≈2.9 tons). He ordered 2.5 cubic yards, saved $150 on excess material, and completed the job on schedule.