This cubic yard calculator converts the length, width and depth of any area into cubic yards, so you know exactly how much gravel, mulch, soil, sand or concrete to order. It also shows tons and bags.
How to figure cubic yards
- Measure the length and width in feet.
- Measure the depth. If it is in inches, divide by 12 to convert to feet.
- Multiply length × width × depth to get cubic feet.
- Divide by 27, because one cubic yard is 3 ft × 3 ft × 3 ft = 27 cubic feet.
Cubic yards = Length (ft) × Width (ft) × Depth (ft) ÷ 27
Example
A 10 × 10 ft garden bed filled 3 inches deep: 10 × 10 × 0.25 = 25 cubic feet. 25 ÷ 27 = 0.93 cubic yards. Most suppliers sell in half or whole yards, so order 1 yard.
How much area does one cubic yard cover?
| Depth | Coverage per cubic yard |
|---|---|
| 1 inch | 324 sq ft |
| 2 inches | 162 sq ft |
| 3 inches | 108 sq ft |
| 4 inches | 81 sq ft |
| 6 inches | 54 sq ft |
Cubic yards to tons
Bulk materials are often sold by the ton. Weight depends on the material and how wet it is. The calculator uses these typical averages:
- Gravel: about 1.4 tons per cubic yard
- Sand: about 1.35 tons per cubic yard
- Topsoil: about 1.1 tons per cubic yard (more when wet)
- Mulch: about 0.4 tons per cubic yard
- Concrete: about 2 tons per cubic yard
Always confirm the exact density with your supplier before ordering by weight.
Cubic yards to bags
One cubic yard equals 27 cubic feet, so it takes 13.5 bags of 2 cu ft mulch, or about 45 bags of 80 lb concrete mix (0.6 cu ft each).
Frequently asked questions
How many cubic feet are in a cubic yard?
27 cubic feet.
How do I calculate a round area?
Choose “Circle” and enter the diameter. The calculator uses π × radius² for the area.
Should I order extra?
Yes. Add 5–10% for settling, compaction and uneven ground.