Fill Dirt Calculator

About the Fill Dirt Calculator

Fill dirt is one of the most commonly ordered materials in construction and landscaping. Whether you're raising a low spot, backfilling a foundation, building up a pad for a shed, or creating a berm, you need to know exactly how many cubic yards and tons to order. Under-ordering means extra delivery fees and project delays; over-ordering means paying for material you can't use.

This calculator takes the area you need to fill and the desired depth, then converts those measurements into cubic yards and estimated tons based on the density of the fill material. Clean fill dirt typically weighs 1.1 to 1.4 tons per cubic yard, depending on moisture content and soil composition.

Use This calculator to get accurate quotes from material suppliers and plan your project timeline around delivery schedules.

When This Page Helps

Fill dirt is sold by the cubic yard or by the ton. Knowing both values lets you compare prices from different suppliers who may quote in different units. This calculator also helps you estimate trucking needs so your material arrives on schedule without overwhelming your staging area.

How to Use the Inputs

1. Measure the area to be filled in square feet (length × width).
2. Enter the desired fill depth in inches or feet.
3. Select or enter the fill dirt density (1.1–1.4 tons per cubic yard).
4. Review the required volume in cubic yards.
5. Check the estimated weight in tons for ordering.
6. Use the truck load count to coordinate deliveries.

Example Calculation

Tips & Best Practices

• Always order 10–15% extra to account for settling and compaction losses.
• Clean fill dirt (free of organics, debris) is required for structural applications.
• Compact fill in 6–8 inch lifts for best results.
• Check with your supplier whether they quote by the yard or ton and convert accordingly.
• Wet fill dirt is heavier — adjust your density estimate if ordering after rain.
• Verify that the fill material meets local code requirements for its intended use.

How to Calculate Fill Dirt Needs

The basic formula multiplies your area by the desired depth to get volume in cubic feet, then divides by 27 to convert to cubic yards. If you're filling an irregular shape, break it into rectangles, calculate each separately, and sum the volumes.

Types of Fill Dirt

Clean fill is screened and free of organics — required for most structural applications. Common fill may contain small rocks and mixed soil types. Engineered fill is tested and certified to meet specific compaction and bearing requirements for foundations.

Compaction Best Practices

Always compact fill in lifts (layers) of 6–8 inches. Use a plate compactor for granular soils and a sheepsfoot roller for clay soils. Each lift should reach 95% Standard Proctor density for structural applications. Water content affects compaction — the soil should be near its optimum moisture content.

Ordering and Delivery Tips

Get quotes from multiple suppliers. Specify clean or common fill based on your needs. Schedule deliveries so material can be placed and compacted the same day — sitting piles can wash out or block access. Verify truck access and staging area size before the first load arrives.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is fill dirt?

  Fill dirt is subsoil material used to raise grades, fill holes, and backfill excavations. Unlike topsoil, it contains little organic matter and is valued for its compactability and stability. Clean fill is free of contaminants, debris, and large rocks.

• How much does fill dirt weigh per cubic yard?

  Fill dirt typically weighs 1.1 to 1.4 tons (2,200 to 2,800 lbs) per cubic yard depending on moisture content and soil type. Dry sandy fill is lighter, while wet clay fill is heavier.

• How much does fill dirt cost?

  Fill dirt costs $5–$25 per cubic yard depending on quality, source, and delivery distance. Clean engineered fill costs more than common fill. Delivery fees typically add $50–$150 per load.

• What is the difference between fill dirt and topsoil?

  Fill dirt is subsoil with minimal organic content, used for structural filling and grading. Topsoil is the nutrient-rich upper layer used for planting. Fill dirt compacts better but won't support plant growth on its own.

• How many cubic yards fit in a dump truck?

  A standard dump truck carries 10–16 cubic yards. A tandem truck holds 14–16 CY, while a tri-axle carries 16–20 CY. Check weight limits — fill dirt is heavy and may max out the weight capacity before the volume capacity.

• Should I compact fill dirt?

  Yes, fill dirt should always be compacted in lifts of 6–8 inches using a plate compactor or roller. Uncompacted fill will settle over time, creating low spots and potential structural issues.

• How much does fill dirt settle after compaction?

  Properly compacted fill settles very little. However, loosely placed fill can settle 10–25% over time. Order extra material to account for compaction — typically 10–15% above your calculated volume.

• Can I use free fill dirt for my project?

  Free fill from construction sites can save money but carry risks. It may contain debris, contaminants, or expansive clay. Always inspect free fill visually and consider testing it if it will be used near a structure or under pavement.