Fill dirt calculator
Enter the area to fill and the average depth. You get cubic yards for ordering, a rough weight in tons, and an optional cost with delivery.
Figures last reviewed October 2026. See sources.
Density used
Weight is a rough guide. Published figures for fill dirt run from about 2,000 to 3,200 pounds per cubic yard, and one supplier gives 2,000 to 2,700. Moisture, soil type, and compaction all matter. Pick the option that fits, or enter your supplier's figure. Order by volume when you can.
Average fill depth: typical ranges
These are common ranges, not requirements. Your soil, climate, and local rules may call for something different.
| Use | Depth |
|---|---|
| Filling low spots and leveling | The average depth of the area |
| Raising the grade over a larger area | Your planned finished height |
| Fill that will be compacted | Ask your contractor; plan for extra |
How this is calculated
Area times average depth gives volume in cubic feet. Divide by 27 for cubic yards. Fill settles after it is placed and watered, so the calculator adds 10% by default.
If you will compact the fill in layers, you will usually need more than the loose volume. Try a larger number in Extra material and ask your contractor what to expect. For an uneven hole, measure the depth in a few places and use the average, or split the area into sections with Add another area.
Example: a 20 ft by 15 ft area at 6 inches deep, with 10% extra, needs about 6.11 cubic yards (165.0 cubic feet).
How far does one ton go?
Area covered by one ton at different depths, before any extra material.
| Depth | Square feet covered |
|---|---|
| 2 in | 135 |
| 4 in | 67 |
| 6 in | 45 |
| 12 in | 22 |
Quick reference: common sizes
Amount needed in cubic yards, including the default 10% extra. Use the calculator above for your exact size.
| Area | 3 in deep | 6 in deep |
|---|---|---|
| 10 × 10 ft | 1.02 | 2.04 |
| 10 × 20 ft | 2.04 | 4.07 |
| 20 × 20 ft | 4.07 | 8.15 |
| 20 × 30 ft | 6.11 | 12.22 |
| 30 × 30 ft | 9.17 | 18.33 |
Common questions
How much fill dirt do I need?
Multiply the area in square feet by the average depth in feet, then divide by 27 for cubic yards. For example, 300 square feet at 6 inches deep is about 5.6 cubic yards before the allowance for settling.
How many tons are in a cubic yard of fill dirt?
It varies with moisture and soil type. Published figures run from about 1.0 ton (2,000 lb) when dry and loose to about 1.4 tons or more when wet or clay-heavy, with about 1.2 tons a common middle figure. Ask your supplier what they use.
How much area does a cubic yard of fill dirt cover?
About 135 square feet at 2 inches deep, 45 square feet at 6 inches deep, and 22 square feet at 12 inches deep, before any extra for settling.
What is the difference between fill dirt and topsoil?
Fill dirt is usually subsoil with little organic matter, used to raise or level ground. Topsoil is richer and meant for growing plants. A common approach is fill dirt for the bulk of the job, finished with a layer of topsoil.
Should I order by the yard or by the ton?
Whichever your supplier prices in. Ordering by volume is safer, because weight changes with moisture. Heavy loads can also hit a truck's weight limit before it is full, so ask about per-load limits.
Found a mistake or have a suggestion? Email us.