Cubic Yard Calculator
Estimate the material you need — stone, aggregate, or topsoil — before you order.
Plan Your Project
with Confidence
Enter your project dimensions below and select your material type. The calculator will give you an instant estimate in cubic yards — plus a recommended order quantity that accounts for natural settling and waste.
This estimate is for planning purposes. Material density, settling, and irregular surfaces can affect actual quantities. We recommend adding 10–15% to your calculated total.
How the Calculator Works
Our calculator converts your project dimensions from feet and inches into cubic yards — the standard unit used to price and deliver bulk stone, aggregate, and topsoil.
Select Your Material
Choose between Stone, Aggregate, or Topsoil to see material-specific depth guidelines and tips for your project type.
Enter Dimensions
Measure the length, width, and desired depth of the area you need to cover. Use feet or inches — the calculator handles the conversion.
Review Your Estimate
Your result shows the calculated cubic yards plus a recommended order quantity with a 10% buffer to account for compaction and waste.
Why Divide by 27?
One cubic yard equals 27 cubic feet (3 ft × 3 ft × 3 ft). Since most project measurements are given in feet and inches, this formula converts the total cubic footage into the cubic yards your supplier uses to price and load material.
When your depth is in inches, convert it first: depth ÷ 12 = depth in feet. Then multiply Length × Width × Depth and divide by 27.
What Does One Cubic Yard Look Like?
Imagine a cube that is 3 feet wide, 3 feet long, and 3 feet tall. That is one cubic yard — 27 cubic feet of material. A standard pickup truck bed holds roughly 1–1.5 cubic yards, while a tri-axle dump truck can carry 14–18 cubic yards in a single load.
How Deep Should
Your Material Be?
Depth is the most critical variable in your estimate. Use these guidelines as a starting point — your site conditions, intended use, and existing base will determine the final depth.
Stone
Aggregate
Topsoil
Tips for a Successful Order
A good estimate gets you close — but there are a few things to keep in mind when placing your order to make sure you have exactly what you need, when you need it.
Order 10–15% Extra
Material compacts after delivery, and irregular areas require more coverage than a simple rectangle. Always add a safety margin to avoid running short mid-project.
Measure Accurately
For odd-shaped areas, break them into rectangles and add the results together. For circular areas, use the formula: radius² × 3.14 × depth ÷ 27.
Consider Your Base
If you're adding material over an existing base, measure only the additional depth needed. New installs on bare ground typically require more depth than top-dress applications.
Know Your Delivery Options
A standard dump truck delivers 10–14 cubic yards. Tri-axle trucks carry 14–18 yards. For smaller jobs, inquire about pickup availability at our Hallstead yard.
Account for Compaction
Gravel and crushed aggregate will compact 10–20% under vehicle traffic or compaction equipment. Order accordingly, especially for driveways and parking areas.
When in Doubt, Ask Us
Our team has helped hundreds of homeowners and contractors in Northeast PA estimate materials accurately. Call or contact us and we'll walk through your project together.
Have Your Measurements?
Let's Get You a Quote.
Share your project dimensions and material needs with our team. We'll confirm your estimate and discuss delivery scheduling throughout Northeast PA.