Fill Dirt Calculator

Calculate fill dirt to raise grade, fill holes or build up around a foundation. Fill dirt is subsoil without organic matter, so it compacts well.

%

Cubic yards

7.78 yd³

  • Tons9.33 short tons
  • Cubic feet210 ft³
  • Cubic meters5.95 m³
  • Area covered200 ft²
  • Estimated material cost$93–$467

Estimates only. Round up when you order, and confirm structural details with your local building code.

How to use it

  1. Enter the area.
  2. Enter the average depth to fill.
  3. Add 10–25% for compaction if the fill will be compacted.

The formula

Cubic yards = area × depth ÷ 27

Tons ≈ cubic yards × 1.2

Worked example

Length20 ft
Width10 ft
Depth12 in
State (for price)U.S. average
Extra for settling / compaction5 %

Result

Cubic yards7.78 yd³
Tons9.33 short tons
Cubic feet210 ft³
Cubic meters5.95 m³
Area covered200 ft²
Estimated material cost$93–$467

Tips before you order

  • Compact fill in 6 in lifts. Loose fill can settle 20% or more.
  • Cap fill with 4–6 in of topsoil if you plan to plant grass.

Questions

Is fill dirt the same as topsoil?

No. Fill dirt is subsoil used to build up grade; topsoil is the organic layer plants grow in.