Measurement & Conversion

Cubic Yard Calculator

This cubic yard calculator converts length, width and depth into cubic yards and tons; see our yard drainage guide for excavation tips. Bulk materials — soil, fill, gravel, mulch, concrete — are sold by the cubic yard (27 cubic feet) or by the ton. Enter length, width and depth in feet and inches; add a density to convert to tons, or a swell factor to estimate the loose volume of excavated soil for hauling.

Results from this cubic yard calculator are planning estimates; confirm quantities and prices with your supplier or contractor before you order.

Your results will appear here

Enter your measurements and press Calculate. Defaults show a typical example.

How to use the cubic yard calculator

Enter length and width in feet.
Enter the depth — feet plus inches.
Optionally enter the supplier's density to see tons.

Formula

Cubic yards = length (ft) × width (ft) × depth (ft) ÷ 27. Tons = cubic yards × density (tons per cubic yard).

Worked example

A 10 × 10 ft area 4 in deep: 10 × 10 × 0.333 = 33.3 ft³ = 1.23 yd³.

Tips for using the cubic yard calculator

Convert depth in inches to feet (divide by 12) before multiplying, or let the calculator do it.
Use the swell factor when ordering hauling for excavated soil, which takes up more space loose.
Ask suppliers whether they sell by the yard or the ton before comparing prices.
Delivery trucks have minimum and maximum loads, so ask how many yards fit in one truck and what a second trip costs before you finalize the order. Splitting a large order across two deliveries can also give you time to spread and compact the first load.