MulticalcExcavation Volume Calculator
Calculate earthwork volume and material removalEnter excavation dimensions to calculate volume.
Excavation Calculator Guide
How to Calculate Excavation Volume
1. Choose Excavation Type
Rectangular: Foundations, trenches,
basements
Circular: Pools, tanks, wells
Sloped: Excavations with angled sides for stability
2. Measure Dimensions
Measure length, width, and depth. For sloped excavations, measure both top and bottom dimensions.
3. Calculate Volume
Volume is calculated in cubic yards (standard for excavation). 1 cubic yard = 27 cubic feet.
4. Estimate Truckloads
Standard dump truck holds 10-14 cubic yards. We use 12 cubic yards as average capacity.
Soil Weight Estimates
- Topsoil: ~2,000 lbs/cubic yard
- Clay: ~2,400 lbs/cubic yard
- Sand/Gravel: ~2,700 lbs/cubic yard
- Rock: ~3,000+ lbs/cubic yard
Pro Tips
-
Slope
Ratio
OSHA requires 1.5:1 slope for excavations over 5 feet deep in most soils. -
Swell Factor
Excavated soil expands 20-40%. Account for this when planning disposal. -
Permits
Check local codes. Deep excavations often require permits and inspections.
Quick Conversions
- 1 cubic yard = 27 cubic feet
- 1 cubic yard = 0.76 cubic meters
- 1 ton soil ≈ 0.8-1.0 cubic yards
Frequently Asked Questions
A: Measure length, width, and depth in feet, multiply them together to get cubic feet, then divide by 27 to convert to cubic yards. For example: 30' × 20' × 8' = 4,800 cubic feet ÷ 27 = 177.78 cubic yards.
A: A standard dump truck holds 10-14 cubic yards. We use 12 cubic yards as an average. Divide your total cubic yards by 12 to estimate truckloads needed.
A: Excavated soil expands 20-40% from its in-ground volume due to air pockets. This means you'll need more truck capacity than the in-ground volume suggests. Plan accordingly for disposal.
A: OSHA requires sloped sides (typically 1.5:1 ratio) for excavations deeper than 5 feet in most soil types to prevent cave-ins. Alternatively, you can use shoring or trench boxes. Always follow safety regulations.
A: Excavation costs vary widely by location, soil type, and accessibility. Typical rates range from $10-$50 per cubic yard for digging, plus $50-$150 per truckload for hauling and disposal. Get local quotes for accurate pricing.
A: Requirements vary by location and project size. Most areas require permits for excavations over 5 feet deep. Always call 811 (or your local utility locating service) before digging to mark underground utilities. Check with your local building department.
Disclaimer
Important Notice:
- This calculator provides estimates only. Actual excavation volumes may vary based on soil conditions, site irregularities, and measurement accuracy.
- Always consult with a licensed excavation contractor or civil engineer for accurate site assessment and professional excavation services.
- Costs shown are approximate and vary significantly by location, soil type, accessibility, and market conditions.
- Safety critical: Excavation work is extremely dangerous. Cave-ins can be fatal. Follow all OSHA regulations, use proper shoring/sloping, and never enter an unprotected excavation.
- Call before you dig: Contact 811 or your local utility locating service at least 2-3 days before excavating to mark underground utilities (gas, electric, water, sewer, telecom).
- Soil swell factor (20-40% expansion) is not included in volume calculations. Plan for additional hauling capacity.
- This tool does not account for rock removal, dewatering, or other special conditions that may significantly increase costs.
- Check local building codes and permits before starting any excavation project. Most jurisdictions require permits for excavations over 5 feet deep.
- We are not responsible for any errors, omissions, injuries, property damage, or other consequences resulting from the use of this calculator.
Always verify calculations with professionals and prioritize safety above all else.
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Did You Know?
The largest excavation project ever was the Panama Canal, which removed over 200 million cubic yards of earth!