Cubic Yard Calculator
By Taro Schenker | Updated February 11, 2026
Quick Answer: To calculate cubic yards, multiply Length (ft) x Width (ft) x Depth (ft) and divide by 27. One cubic yard equals 27 cubic feet, 46,656 cubic inches, or 0.7646 cubic meters. For weight, multiply cubic yards by the material density: concrete 3,915, gravel 2,700, sand 2,700, mulch 600, topsoil 2,160 lbs/cu yd. A 10 x 10 ft area at 4 inches deep equals 1.23 cubic yards.
Calculate cubic yards from any dimensions. Enter length, width, and depth to convert to cubic yards, cubic feet, cubic meters, and other volume units. Optionally select a material to estimate weight in pounds and tons.
How to Calculate Cubic Yards
The formula for calculating cubic yards from dimensions is:
- Measure the length, width, and depth of your space.
- Convert all measurements to feet (divide inches by 12, multiply yards by 3).
- Multiply length × width × depth to get the volume in cubic feet.
- Divide the cubic feet by 27 to get cubic yards.
- Add a waste factor if needed to account for spillage or uneven surfaces.
Cubic Yard Conversion Table
Quick reference for converting one cubic yard to other volume units:
| Unit | Equivalent to 1 Cubic Yard |
|---|---|
| Cubic Feet | 27 |
| Cubic Meters | 0.7646 |
| Cubic Inches | 46,656 |
| Liters | 764.55 |
| Gallons (US) | 201.97 |
Material Weight per Cubic Yard
Approximate weight of common materials when ordered by the cubic yard:
| Material | Weight (lbs) | Weight (tons) |
|---|---|---|
| Concrete | 3,915 | 1.96 |
| Gravel | 2,700 | 1.35 |
| Sand | 2,700 | 1.35 |
| Mulch | 600 | 0.30 |
| Topsoil | 2,160 | 1.08 |
| Dirt | 2,150 | 1.08 |
| Crushed Stone | 2,700 | 1.35 |
Common Uses for Cubic Yard Calculations
- Concrete projects: Estimating how many cubic yards of concrete to order for slabs, footings, driveways, and foundations.
- Landscaping: Calculating mulch, topsoil, or compost for garden beds and yard renovation.
- Gravel and aggregate: Determining how much gravel to order for driveways, pathways, and drainage projects.
- Excavation and fill: Figuring out how much dirt or fill material needs to be moved or brought in.
- Hauling and disposal: Knowing how many truck loads you need when a dump truck holds 10-14 cubic yards.
Formula Summary
Cubic Yard Formula (Rectangular): To calculate cubic yards, multiply Length (ft) x Width (ft) x Depth (ft) and divide by 27.
$$V_{\text{cu yd}} = \frac{L_{\text{ft}} \times W_{\text{ft}} \times D_{\text{ft}}}{27}$$
Circular Volume: $$V_{\text{cu ft}} = \pi \times \left(\frac{d}{2}\right)^2 \times D$$ then divide by 27 for cubic yards.
Weight Formula: $$W_{\text{lbs}} = V_{\text{cu yd}} \times \rho$$ where $\rho$ is the material density in lbs/cu yd.
| Material | Density (lbs/cu yd) |
|---|---|
| Concrete | 3,915 |
| Gravel | 2,700 |
| Sand | 2,700 |
| Mulch | 600 |
| Topsoil | 2,160 |
| Dirt | 2,150 |
| Crushed Stone | 2,700 |
Standard Assumptions: 1 cubic yard = 27 cubic feet = 46,656 cubic inches = 0.7646 cubic meters = 764.55 liters = 201.97 US gallons. Waste factor is adjustable and defaults to 0% for pure conversions. 1 ton = 2,000 lbs.
Related Calculators
- Mulch Calculator — calculate mulch for garden beds and landscaping
- Gravel Calculator — calculate gravel for driveways, paths, and fill
- Sand Calculator — estimate sand for leveling, sandboxes, and masonry
- Concrete Calculator — estimate concrete for slabs, footings, and columns
Estimates are for planning purposes only. Consult a qualified contractor for critical projects. Actual material requirements may vary based on site conditions, waste, and installation methods.
Pricing last verified: February 2026. Material prices vary by region, season, and supplier. Prices shown are national averages for planning purposes.