Soil Volume Calculator

Calculate soil volume for any shape - rectangles, circles, triangles, and trapezoids. Get accurate measurements in both imperial and metric units.

Calculate Soil Volume

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Soil Volume Calculator Guide

This calculator helps you determine the exact amount of soil needed for any shaped area. Whether you're filling a rectangular garden bed, creating a circular planting area, or working with irregular shapes, we've got you covered.

Shape Formulas

  • Rectangle: Length x Width x Depth
  • Circle: π x Radius² x Depth
  • Triangle: (Base x Height ÷ 2) x Depth
  • Trapezoid: ((Base1 + Base2) ÷ 2 x Height) x Depth

Soil Type Densities

  • Topsoil: 1.2 tons/yd³ (1.6 tonnes/m³)
  • Garden Soil: 1.3 tons/yd³ (1.7 tonnes/m³)
  • Potting Mix: 0.8 tons/yd³ (1.1 tonnes/m³)
  • Compost: 1.0 tons/yd³ (1.35 tonnes/m³)
  • Fill Dirt: 1.5 tons/yd³ (2.0 tonnes/m³)

Tips for Complex Areas

  • Break irregular areas into multiple simple shapes
  • Calculate each shape separately
  • Add all volumes together for total needed
  • Consider slopes and grade changes
  • Account for existing soil that may be reused

Common Project Depths

  • New lawn: 4-6 inches (10-15 cm)
  • Garden beds: 8-12 inches (20-30 cm)
  • Raised beds: 12-18 inches (30-45 cm)
  • Tree planting: 2-3 times root ball depth
  • Topdressing: 0.5-1 inch (1.3-2.5 cm)

Need More Gardening Calculators?

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Garden questions, answered

Common questions before you buy materials

Use these quick answers alongside the calculator so you can plan the right amount, avoid waste, and keep your garden project moving.

What is the easiest way to estimate soil volume?
Measure length, width, and desired soil depth, then multiply them using the same unit. For rectangular beds, this gives the volume before rounding up for settling.
Why do soil calculators use cubic feet or cubic yards?
Soil is sold by volume, not just by surface area. Cubic feet are useful for bags and small beds, while cubic yards are common for bulk deliveries.
Should I round soil volume up or down?
Round up a little, especially for new beds. Extra soil can top off low spots after watering, while too little soil leaves roots shallow and exposed.