Cubic Yard Calculator
Calculate the cubic yards and total cost for your project.
Cubic Yard Calculator — Volume, Mulch, Gravel & Soil Guide
This cubic yard calculator guide explains how to measure volume for soil, mulch, gravel, sand, and concrete. You’ll find formulas, conversion tables, examples, cost estimating advice, FAQs, and professional tips.
Formula & Quick Reference
The formula for cubic yards is simple:
cubic yards = (length (ft) × width (ft) × depth (ft)) ÷ 27One cubic yard equals 27 cubic feet (3 × 3 × 3). This formula is the backbone of all cubic yard measurements.
Step-by-step Examples
Example 1: Mulch for a Garden Bed
Area = 20 ft × 4 ft × 0.25 ft (3 inches). Multiply and divide by 27 = 0.74 yd³. Round up to 1 cubic yard.
Example 2: Gravel for Driveway
Area = 30 ft × 10 ft × 0.333 ft. Multiply and divide by 27 = 3.7 yd³. Round up to 4 cubic yards.
Example 3: Concrete for Slab
Area = 10 ft × 10 ft × 0.5 ft. Multiply and divide by 27 = 1.85 yd³. Order 2 cubic yards of concrete.
Conversion Charts
| Yards (yd³) | Feet (ft³) | Meters (m³) | Tons (approx.) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 27 | 0.7646 | ~1.3 (gravel) |
| 5 | 135 | 3.8227 | ~6.5 (gravel) |
| 10 | 270 | 7.6455 | ~13 (gravel) |
Cost Estimator
To estimate cost: Multiply the cubic yards needed by the price per yard. Always add 5–10% extra for waste or compaction.
Example: If mulch costs $45 per cubic yard and you need 3 cubic yards, total cost = $135 (add 10% buffer = $148.5).
Materials Commonly Sold by Cubic Yard
- Mulch (bark, wood chips)
- Topsoil and compost
- Gravel and crushed stone
- Sand
- Concrete
- Fill dirt and clay
Ordering & Installation Tips
- Measure carefully and double-check units.
- Account for compaction when ordering soil, gravel, or sand.
- Check delivery access and supplier policies.
- Ask suppliers about moisture content (wet soil is heavier).
- Use wheelbarrow conversions: 1 cubic yard = ~14 wheelbarrow loads.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How many cubic yards are in a ton?
A: It depends on the material: mulch ~0.5 tons/yd³, gravel ~1.4 tons/yd³.
Q: What’s the difference between cubic yards and cubic meters?
A: 1 yd³ = 0.7646 m³. A cubic meter equals about 1.308 yd³.
Q: How much does a cubic yard cover?
A: One cubic yard of mulch covers 100 sq ft at 3 inches deep.
Q: Can I convert cubic yards to bags of soil or mulch?
A: Yes. One cubic yard = ~27 cubic feet. A standard soil bag is 1.5 cubic feet, so 1 yd³ = 18 bags.
Q: Why do suppliers sell in cubic yards?
A: Because it’s the standard bulk measurement for landscaping, soil, and construction materials.
Q: How do I visualize a cubic yard?
A: Imagine a cube 3 feet on each side. That’s one cubic yard.
Q: How much does a cubic yard of concrete weigh?
A: About 4,000 pounds or 2 tons.
Q: Is delivery usually included when ordering cubic yards?
A: Sometimes. Many suppliers charge extra for delivery depending on distance.
Q: Can I mix materials ordered in cubic yards?
A: Yes, you can order multiple types of materials in cubic yards for one project.
Q: How many wheelbarrows are in a cubic yard?
A: About 9–14 wheelbarrows depending on wheelbarrow size.
Q: How do I calculate cubic yards for irregular areas?
A: Break the area into smaller regular shapes, calculate volumes, then add them together.