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Excavation Calculator
Calculate cubic yards, weight, truck loads, and material cost for any excavation or fill project.
Material properties
Density: 1.1 tons/CY
No material purchase cost — disposal fees may apply
Total Volume
59.26 CY
1600.00 cubic feet · 65.19 tons
| Cubic feet | 1600.00 ft³ |
| Cubic yards | 59.26 CY |
| Weight | 65.19 tons |
| Truck loads (10 CY) | 6 |
| Truck loads (14 CY) | 5 |
| Disposal note | Cost varies |
info
Excavated dirt / common fill has no buy price, but disposal or hauling costs vary by region — typically $50–150/CY.
Methodology
Volume = L × W × D. Tons = cubic yards × material density. Standard truck loads calculated at 10 CY and 14 CY capacity. Material prices are national average estimates — verify with local suppliers before budgeting. Excavated material (dirt, clay) has no purchase price but will incur hauling and disposal costs depending on your site and municipality.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many cubic yards is a standard dump truck load?
Standard dump trucks carry 10–14 cubic yards depending on truck size and configuration. A tandem axle dump truck typically holds 10–12 CY, while a tri-axle can carry 14–16 CY. Always confirm rated capacity with your hauler, as weight limits may reduce volume capacity for dense materials like clay or wet concrete.
What does gravel weigh per cubic yard?
Gravel weighs approximately 1.4 tons per cubic yard, or about 2,800 lbs. Crushed stone is similar at 1.35 tons/CY (~2,700 lbs). These figures vary with moisture content and particle size — wet or compacted gravel can weigh more. Check axle weight limits before loading trucks for road transport.
How do I calculate excavation in cubic yards?
Multiply Length × Width × Depth (all in feet), then divide by 27. For example, a 20 × 20 pit that is 3 feet deep = 20 × 20 × 3 = 1,200 cubic feet ÷ 27 = 44.4 cubic yards. For irregular shapes, break the area into rectangles and sum the results.
How much does excavation cost?
Excavation costs $50–150 per cubic yard in 2026 depending on soil type, equipment required, site access, and region. Rocky or highly compacted soil increases cost significantly. This figure typically includes excavating and hauling away material but not backfill or compaction. Get at least three bids for any project over 100 CY.