How to use it
- Enter the length of the area in feet.
- Enter the width of the area in feet.
- Enter the depth in inches.
- Get your results instantly — cubic yards, tons, and cubic feet.
This top soil calculator converts your length, width, and depth into the exact volume of soil you need. It shows cubic yards for ordering, cubic feet for smaller bags, and an estimated weight in tons based on 1.3 US tons per cubic yard. Use the cubic yard figure when buying bulk topsoil, and the cubic feet when using bagged soil. The ton estimate helps you plan for delivery and handling. For example, a 10 ft by 10 ft bed at 6 in deep gives 50 cubic feet, about 1.85 cubic yards, and roughly 2.4 tons. That tells you whether a pickup truck can handle it or you need a delivery service. Knowing these numbers before you start prevents overbuying, saves money, and keeps your project moving without a last-minute run to the garden center.
Pro tips
- Add 5–10% waste allowance for spillage and compaction.
- Round up to the nearest half cubic yard when ordering bulk.
- Call your supplier for exact tonnage — moisture affects weight.
- Don’t reduce depth for settling; topsoil compacts over time.
Real-life examples
- Filling a new raised garden bed with fresh topsoil.
- Leveling a lawn area before reseeding or laying sod.
- Creating a flower bed border along a driveway or walkway.
Case study
Jake measured his 12x4 ft front bed, entered 8 in depth, and got 1.19 cubic yards. He ordered 1.5 yards with waste, avoided a second delivery fee, and finished the job in one afternoon.