Dirt Calculator
Estimate fill dirt cubic yards, cubic meters, and tons from length, width, and depth. Dry, compacted, wet, or clay fill — not gravel or topsoil.
How to use this dirt calculator
Fill dirt is for grading, raising a pad, or backfilling — not for planting. Topsoil is the growing layer; gravel is drainage and driveways. This dirt calculator converts a rectangle and a depth into yards and tons so you can call a landscape yard once.
Loose fill settles. Order a little extra or compact in lifts if the grade has to hold a patio or shed. Wet clay is heavy: the same hole can weigh a lot more after rain, which is why the ton estimate changes with fill type.
Formula
Worked example
A 20×20 ft area, 6 in of dry fill: 20×20×0.5 ÷ 27 = 7.41 cu yd ≈ 10.4 tons.
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Frequently asked questions
How much fill dirt do I need?
Length × width × depth in feet, then divide by 27 for cubic yards.
How many tons in a yard of fill dirt?
Often 1.4–1.8 tons. Dry loose fill is lighter; wet clay is heavier.
Fill dirt vs topsoil vs gravel?
Fill dirt grades. Topsoil grows. Gravel drains and drives. Use the matching calculator.
How deep should I fill?
Whatever brings the grade to the plan. Six inches is a common regrade; footings and retaining walls follow the engineer.
Will it settle?
Yes, especially loose dumped dirt. Compact in 6–8 in lifts or order extra for a finish grade.
Results are estimates for informational purposes and are not financial, legal, or professional advice. Last reviewed 2026-08-20.