How To Calculate Fill Dirt Calculator

Instantly calculate the cubic yards, tons, and cubic feet of fill dirt you need—free, no sign‑up.

  • 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. Click Calculate to see results.

What it does – The Fill Dirt Calculator takes the length, width, and depth of your project and instantly returns three key measurements: total cubic yards, an approximate tonnage, and total cubic feet. Knowing the cubic yards tells you how many dump‑truck loads to order, while the ton estimate (using the industry standard 1.3 US tons per cubic yard) helps you confirm weight limits for transport and site preparation. The cubic‑feet figure is useful for smaller jobs or when comparing material costs per square foot. All results appear in clear, separate boxes so you can copy the numbers into quotes, permits, or budgeting spreadsheets without extra conversion steps. No hidden fees, no registration—just the numbers you need to plan and order the right amount of fill dirt.

Pro tips

  • Add 5‑10% extra volume for compaction and settling.
  • Round up to the nearest half‑yard for easier ordering.
  • Check local truck load limits before ordering by weight.
  • Enter depth in inches; the calculator converts it automatically.

Real-life examples

  • A homeowner leveling a backyard before installing a patio.
  • A contractor estimating fill for a new driveway foundation.
  • A landscaper preparing soil for a raised garden bed.

Case study

Jane needed to raise her garden by 6 inches over a 20 × 30 ft area. Using the calculator, she saw she required 2.25 cubic yards (≈2.9 tons). She ordered 3 cubic yards, allowing for compaction, and completed the project on budget without excess material.

Frequently asked questions

How do I convert depth in inches to feet for the calculator?
Enter the depth in inches as prompted; the calculator handles the conversion internally.
Why does the ton estimate differ from supplier quotes?
The calculator uses a standard 1.3 US tons per cubic yard; actual material density can vary slightly, so suppliers may quote a different weight.
Can I use the results for multiple separate areas?
Calculate each area individually and add the cubic yards together for a total order.
Do I need to account for soil compaction?
Yes, add a 5‑10% waste factor to the cubic yards to cover settling and compaction.
Is the calculator suitable for sand or gravel?
The volume numbers are accurate for any fill material; only the weight conversion may differ if the material’s density is not close to the 1.3 ton per cubic yard standard.