Topsoil Volume Calculator

Calculate the volume and weight of topsoil needed for a landscaping project based on area and depth.

Inputs

Area Length

Area Width

Topsoil Depth

Bulk Density

lb/cu ft

Tab to move between fields

Results

Volume Needed

18.52 cu yd

≈ 9 hot tubs

Weight18.75 tons

Truck Loads (12 cu yd)2 loads

Estimated Cost$648.20

How to Use This Calculator

Enter the area in square feet to be amended or graded.
Set the desired topsoil depth in inches.
Review the volume in cubic feet and cubic yards to order.
Add 10-15% for settling and compaction losses.
A standard dump truck holds 10-14 cubic yards — use the cubic yard output to determine delivery count.

How the result changes with Area Length

Area Length	Volume Needed
501	185.56 cu yd
1,751	648.52 cu yd
3,250	1,203.7 cu yd
4,500	1,666.67 cu yd

What each input means

Area Length: Length of the area to be covered with topsoil.
Area Width: Width of the area to be covered.
Topsoil Depth: Desired depth of topsoil (4-6 inches for new lawns, 2-3 for topdressing).
Bulk Density: Weight per cubic foot of topsoil (typically 70-80 lb/cu ft).

How this is calculated

Worked example, using the default values

Identify Input Parameters
4 parameters
Area Length = 50, Area Width = 30, Topsoil Depth = 4, Bulk Density = 75 = 4 input(s) provided
Calculate Volume Needed
Volume Needed
18.52 = 18.52
Calculate Weight
Weight
18.75 = 18.75
Calculate Truck Loads
Truck Loads
2 = 2

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