How this calculator works
A cubic yard is a cube that is 3 feet on each side: 27 cubic feet. To find the volume of a space, multiply the area by the depth (in feet), then divide by 27.
Worked example: a 10 × 10 ft area filled 6 in deep is 100 ft² × 0.5 ft = 50 ft³, which is 1.85 yd³. That would weigh about 2.6 tons if filled with crushed stone.
Cubic yard quick conversions
| Cubic yards | Cubic feet | Cubic meters | US gallons |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0.25 | 6.8 | 0.19 | 50 |
| 0.5 | 13.5 | 0.38 | 101 |
| 1 | 27.0 | 0.76 | 202 |
| 2 | 54.0 | 1.53 | 404 |
| 5 | 135.0 | 3.82 | 1010 |
| 10 | 270.0 | 7.65 | 2020 |
Tips before you buy
- Round up to the next quarter yard when ordering. Suppliers sell bulk by the half or quarter yard, and a short load is more expensive than a little extra.
- Check what your vehicle can legally and safely carry. A full-size pickup can usually carry about 1 to 2 yd³ of light material like mulch, but only about half a yard of dense stone or wet soil.
- For loose materials that will be compacted (gravel bases, fill), order 10 to 20% more than the finished volume.
Tools & materials for this project
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Frequently asked questions
How many cubic feet are in a cubic yard?
27 cubic feet (3 × 3 × 3).
How do I calculate cubic yards for dirt, gravel or mulch?
Multiply length × width × depth in feet to get cubic feet, then divide by 27. Or use the calculator above and enter the depth in inches.
How much does a cubic yard weigh?
It depends on the material: roughly 800 lb for mulch to 4,000 lb for concrete. Gravel is about 2,800 lb and topsoil about 2,200 lb.
Related calculators & guides
Estimates only. Results assume standard materials and simple shapes. Supplier products vary, and the final call on quantity, structure and safety is yours. Check your local code and your supplier's guidance before ordering.