How to calculate cubic yards
Cubic yards = L(ft) × W(ft) × D(in) ÷ 12 ÷ 27
Worked example. Material needed: 1.11 cubic yards.
Example inputs — Length: 12 ft; Width: 10 ft; Depth: 3 in. Starting values are illustrative.
From George Guju, founder of Calculyn · Educational calculator guidance, not professional advice.
How it works
One cubic yard is 27 cubic feet. Multiply length × width × depth (converting inches to feet), then divide by 27. Order about 10% extra — material settles and compacts.
Assumptions & limitations
- Results are rounded for display.
Formula and assumptions reviewed October 2026 by the Calculyn team. How we build our calculators
Frequently asked questions
How much does a cubic yard weigh?
It depends on the material: topsoil is roughly 1–1.3 tons per yard, gravel about 1.4–1.7 tons.