Fill Dirt Calculator
Use this fill dirt calculator to estimate the amount of fill dirt needed for backfilling, grading, leveling yards, foundations, landscaping and construction projects using standard US measurements.
Cubic Yards = Volume ÷ 27
1 cu yd fills ~100 sq ft at 3" depth · Standard dump truck = 10–14 cu yd · Fill dirt $8–$25/cu yd delivered · Add 15% for compaction
Estimates based on 2026 US average pricing. Always confirm pricing with your local supplier.
How Does the Fill Dirt Calculator Work?
This fill dirt calculator estimates how many cubic yards of fill dirt you need to level, grade, or fill any area. It includes a truckload estimator to help you know how many deliveries to schedule.
Steps:
- Enter your area length and width in feet.
- Enter the fill depth in inches — how deep you need to fill or raise the area.
- Get instant results — cubic yards, cubic feet, number of standard truckloads, and estimated cost.
Always add 15% extra to your fill dirt order to account for compaction. Fill dirt compacts significantly when tamped or driven over — what looks like enough before compaction may be short after. Use a plate compactor in 6-inch lifts for best results.
Fill Dirt Coverage at Common Depths
Use this quick reference chart to estimate your material needs before using the calculator above.
Fill Dirt Coverage at Common Depths
| Depth | 1 Cu Yd Fills | 100 Sq Ft Needs | 500 Sq Ft Needs |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3 inches | ~108 sq ft | 0.9 cu yd | 4.6 cu yd |
| 6 inches | ~54 sq ft | 1.9 cu yd | 9.3 cu yd |
| 12 inches | ~27 sq ft | 3.7 cu yd | 18.5 cu yd |
| 18 inches | ~18 sq ft | 5.6 cu yd | 27.8 cu yd |
| 24 inches | ~13.5 sq ft | 7.4 cu yd | 37.0 cu yd |
Fill Dirt Cost (2026)
Prices vary by type, quality, and region. Here are 2026 US average prices to help you budget your project.
Fill Dirt Cost (2026)
| Type | Per Cu Yd | Per Ton | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Clean Fill Dirt | $8 – $20 | $5 – $15 | Free sometimes locally |
| Clay Fill | $10 – $25 | $7 – $18 | Good for grading |
| Sandy Fill | $12 – $28 | $8 – $20 | Better drainage |
| Screened Fill | $18 – $35 | $12 – $25 | More consistent |
| Delivery (10 yd truck) | $50 – $150 | per load | Varies by distance |
Clean fill dirt is sometimes available for free or very cheaply from local construction sites, excavation contractors, or neighbors who are digging pools or foundations. Check Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, or local contractor listings for free fill dirt in your area.
Example Calculation
You need to fill a low spot in your yard — 30 ft × 20 ft area, 6 inches deep.
30 ft × 20 ft = 600 sq ft
Volume (cu ft):600 × (6÷12) = 600 × 0.5 = 300 cu ft
Cubic yards:300 ÷ 27 = 11.1 cubic yards
With 15% compaction:11.1 × 1.15 = ~13 cubic yards to order
Truckloads (10 yd):2 trucks (10 + 3 yards)
Cost ($15/cu yd):13 × $15 = ~$195 plus delivery
Buying & Ordering Tips
- Order early — call your supplier 1–2 days ahead for bulk delivery, especially during spring and summer when demand is high.
- Confirm truck size — standard dump trucks hold 10–14 cubic yards. Always confirm the exact capacity before ordering.
- Add waste factor — always order 10–15% more than your calculated amount to account for uneven ground, settling, and waste.
- Compare 3 suppliers — prices for bulk materials vary significantly between suppliers. Always get at least 3 quotes for large orders.
- Check delivery access — confirm the delivery truck can access your property before ordering. Some sites may require a smaller truck at higher cost per yard.