By the Earthstone Materials Team · Last updated: September 26, 2026
The math is simple and it works for every material we sell: cubic yards = length (ft) x width (ft) x depth (ft) / 27. Measure the area in feet, convert depth from inches to feet by dividing by 12, multiply, then divide by 27. Round up to the nearest half yard. That is the whole formula.
Step-by-step
- Measure length and width of the area in feet.
- Pick a depth in inches: 3 to 4 inches for most top layers, 4 to 6 for base layers, 1 to 2 for mulch-like topsoil over beds.
- Divide the depth by 12 to get feet.
- Multiply length x width x depth-in-feet, then divide by 27.
- Round up to the nearest half yard, and add a compaction allowance for base materials.
How heavy is a cubic yard? (estimates)
Weight per cubic yard varies by material and moisture. These are standard industry approximations for estimating tons, not scale weights:
| Material | Tons per cubic yard (approx) |
|---|---|
| Crushed stone (#57, #4, crusher run, drain rock) | ~1.5 |
| Limerock base | ~1.5 |
| Gravel | ~1.4 |
| Asphalt millings | ~1.4 |
| Sand | ~1.35 |
| Fill dirt | ~1.3 |
| Rip rap | ~1.3 |
| Topsoil | ~1.1 |
Worked examples
| Project | Size | Depth | Cubic yards (approx) | Tons (approx) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2-car driveway, #57 stone | 20 x 20 ft | 4 in | ~5 | ~7.5 |
| Driveway base, crusher run | 20 x 40 ft | 4 in | ~10 | ~15 |
| Garden beds, topsoil | 10 x 20 ft | 2 in | ~1.5 | ~1.7 |
| Raising grade, fill dirt | 30 x 30 ft | 6 in | ~17 | ~22 |
Not sure which material your project needs? Take the material selector quiz first. Then skip the mental math and use our material calculator: pick a material, enter your measurements, and it gives cubic yards, estimated tons, and estimated truckloads, then pre-fills your quote.