How to use this calculator
- Enter Length in ft.
- Enter Width in ft.
- Enter Depth in in.
- Enter Price per ton in $.
- Press Calculate. The highlighted row is your order quantity; the note beneath it translates the number into real-world terms.
Formula & constants
Fill is ordered by the cubic yard: area × (depth ÷ 12) ÷ 27. It weighs 1.3–1.4 tons/cy and shrinks ~10% under compaction — order 10% extra to finish at grade. Every default in the fields above is editable — when your supplier’s spec sheet lists a different density, coverage rate or price, enter that number instead. The waste and compaction allowances follow common trade practice; see our methodology page for the derivation of each formula and the standards it references.
One ton covers ~19 sq ft at 12 in deep.
Where this fits in the project
Aggregate quantities feed the layers above them: after excavation, base material is placed in compacted lifts before asphalt or concrete goes down. Convert your tonnage to trips with the truckload calculator before scheduling delivery.
How this connects to your project
No quantity stands alone — each material in the chain depends on the ones around it. These are the planning steps that pair with the fill dirt calculator:
- Excavation Calculator — Excavation removes soil; fill dirt replaces it.
- Topsoil Calculator — Fill dirt is subsoil; topsoil is the growing layer.
- Compaction Calculator — Fill dirt must be compacted in lifts for stability.
- Gravel Calculator — Choose fill dirt vs gravel based on drainage requirements.
- Swell Factor Calculator — Fill dirt volume changes with swell and compaction factors.
- Cut and Fill Calculator — Fill dirt is the fill side of cut-and-fill earthwork.
- Truckload Calculator — Convert fill dirt cubic yards to truckloads.
Frequently asked questions
How much does a cubic yard of fill dirt weigh?
2,000–2,700 lb depending on moisture and clay content — figure 1.35 tons/cy for hauling.
Fill dirt vs topsoil?
Fill is subsoil for structure and grade — no organics. Topsoil goes on top for planting; never build on topsoil.
Last verified: — prices reflect current national averages. See our methodology.
Estimates are for planning. Material densities, coverage rates and prices vary by region and supplier — confirm final quantities before ordering, and check local code where structural or electrical work is involved.