Main result--
Materials--
Estimated cost--
Fill Dirt Calculator
Fill Dirt Calculator helps turn real measurements into a practical planning estimate before ordering material or scheduling work. Use it for early budgeting, then confirm product yield, supplier units, delivery limits, and local requirements.
Updated May 2026No signup requiredBuilt for mobile
Calculator
How to use this calculator
- Enter your project measurements using the units shown on each field.
- Adjust waste, compaction, density, or yield to match your supplier and jobsite.
- Click Calculate to update the estimate.
- Round up to match bags, truckloads, stock lengths, or delivery minimums.
Formula or calculation method
Base cubic yards = length x width x depth in feet / 27.
Order quantity = base cubic yards x compaction factor.
Truckloads = order quantity / truck capacity, rounded up.
Worked example
A 40 ft by 25 ft area filled 6 inches deep is 18.5 cu yd before compaction. With 20% compaction, order about 22.2 cu yd.
Practical planning tips
- Expect fill dirt to settle after delivery.
- Use lifts and compaction for deeper fills.
- Confirm whether screened fill, structural fill, or topsoil is appropriate.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Forgetting compaction and settling.
- Using topsoil where structural fill is needed.
- Ignoring truck access and dump location.
FAQ
Fill Dirt Calculator questions
Is this a final supplier quote?
No. It is a planning estimate. Confirm supplier density, bag yield, delivery minimums, local code, and jobsite conditions before ordering.
Should I add extra material?
Usually yes. Waste, compaction, spillage, irregular forms, uneven ground, and supplier rounding can increase the order amount.
Can this replace professional design?
No. Use qualified help for structural, electrical, code-required, or safety-critical work.
Share this calculator
Good Pinterest pin ideas include a material ordering checklist, a cubic yards to tons example, and common mistakes that make projects run short.