Dirt Fill Calculator
Calculate fill dirt needed for a hole or grade change, with compaction allowance.
Loading calculator…
Currency: Amounts are calculated in the currency you select; this site does not convert between currencies and does not use live exchange rates.
What this tool does
The Dirt Fill Calculator estimates the fill dirt needed to raise grade or fill an excavation, adding a compaction allowance because loose fill shrinks when compacted.
How to use the Dirt Fill Calculator
- Measure the length and width of the area.
- Enter the depth you want to fill.
- Choose the material so the correct density is used.
- Enter your supplier's price per ton.
- Order the volume or tonnage shown, rounded up.
Formula
yd³ = L × W × (D ÷ 12) × (1 + c) ÷ 27; tons = yd³ × density ÷ 2,000
- L, W
- Length and width in feet
- D
- Depth in inches
- c
- Compaction allowance (decimal)
- density
- Material weight in lb per cubic yard
Densities are typical loose values; moisture and gradation change actual weight by ±10%.
Worked example
A 20 × 10 ft area filled 12 in deep with fill dirt.
Inputs
- Length20 ft
- Width10 ft
- Depth12 in
- MaterialFill dirt (2,000 lb/yd³)
- Compaction allowance20 %
- Price per ton$15
Result
- Volume needed8.89 cu yd
- Weight8.89 US tons
- Volume240 cu ft
- Area covered200 sq ft
- Estimated cost$133.33
Material density (per cubic yard)
| Material | Weight | US tons |
|---|---|---|
| Fill dirt | 2,000 lb | 1.00 tons |
| Topsoil (dry, screened) | 2,200 lb | 1.10 tons |
Results explained
- Volume needed
- Cubic yards to order (how most yards sell bulk material).
- Weight
- Tons, for quarries that sell by weight and to check truck capacity.
- Volume (cu ft)
- Same volume in cubic feet, useful for bagged products.
- Area covered
- Surface area of the bed or base.
- Estimated cost
- Tons × your price per ton, before delivery.
Frequently asked questions
Calculate cubic yards from L × W × depth and add 15–25% for compaction.
Typically 15–25% when compacted with a plate or roller.
No. Fill is subsoil with little organic matter, used for grading; topsoil supports plants.
A standard dump truck carries 10–14 cubic yards; tandem axles up to 16.
About 2,000 lb, up to 2,800 lb when wet.