MaterialCalc
Measurement Tools

Cubic Yard Calculator

A cubic yard is 27 cubic feet, so multiply length × width × depth in feet and divide by 27. Enter your area and depth — depth is usually in inches — to get cubic yards and cost.

Cubic yards
Cubic feet
Estimated cost

Estimates only — add 5–10% for cuts and breakage, and confirm quantities with your supplier.

How to calculate cubic yards

Multiply length × width × depth, all in feet, then divide by 27. Depth is usually given in inches, so divide inches by 12 first — the calculator does this for you when you pick inches.

Common uses

Bulk landscaping and building materials are priced by the cubic yard:

  • Gravel and crushed stone for driveways and paver bases
  • Topsoil and compost for garden beds
  • Mulch for landscape coverage
  • Concrete and fill for slabs and footings

For the gravel and sand under a patio, the paver calculator returns those volumes directly.

Ordering tips

Suppliers deliver in whole or half cubic yards, so round up. A little extra is normal — material compacts and settles once placed.

FAQ

Frequently asked

How many cubic feet are in a cubic yard?

There are 27 cubic feet in one cubic yard (3 ft × 3 ft × 3 ft). To convert cubic feet to cubic yards, divide by 27.

How do I calculate cubic yards from inches of depth?

Convert the depth to feet first by dividing inches by 12, then multiply length × width × depth and divide by 27. The calculator handles the inch conversion automatically.

How many cubic yards of material do I need?

Measure the area in feet and the depth you want to fill, and the calculator returns the volume. Gravel, soil, and mulch are all sold by the cubic yard.

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