Shape
Volume calculator
Cubic Yard Calculator
Enter length, width, and depth to calculate cubic yards for a measured project.
Calculating
Unit converter
Cubic volume unit converter
1 m³35.31 ft³
ft³35.31 ft³
yd³1.31 yd³
liters1,000 liters
US gal264.17 US gal
Related calculators
Open a focused calculator when the main keyword changes.
How to use
How to calculate volume for your project
Switch between these options to match the way you are using the calculator right now.
Enter one shape and read the live total
- Choose the shape that matches the object you are measuring.
- Enter the required dimensions and confirm the input unit.
- Use the result panel to read cubic meters, cubic feet, liters, or gallons.
Start with length, width, and depth in feet when estimating cubic yards for material orders.
Guide
Cubic yard calculator guide
Use this cubic yard calculator when a project or supplier quotes material by yd3 and you need to convert measured dimensions into cubic yards.
Cubic yard formula
If dimensions are in feet, cubic yards = length x width x depth / 27. If dimensions are in yards, multiply length x width x depth directly.
Example cubic yard calculation
A measured area is 12 ft long, 9 ft wide, and 0.5 ft deep.
12 x 9 x 0.5 / 27 = 2
The project needs 2 yd3 before waste or rounding.
Unit notes
- Use feet for length, width, and depth when dividing by 27.
- Use decimal feet for depth if the depth is measured in inches.
- Round according to supplier bag, truck, or batch sizing after the calculation.
Best uses
- Bulk material orders
- Fill volume
- Landscape material
- Concrete quantity checks
Common mistakes
- Using inches for depth without converting to feet.
- Rounding down when supplier sizing requires whole bags, scoops, or truck loads.
- Confusing cubic yards with square yards.
Related calculators
How do I calculate cubic yards?
Multiply length, width, and depth in feet, then divide by 27. If all dimensions are already in yards, multiply them directly.
Why do I divide by 27 for cubic yards?
One yard is 3 feet, so one cubic yard is 3 x 3 x 3, or 27 cubic feet.
Can I use inches for depth?
Yes. Convert inches to feet first by dividing by 12, then use the cubic yard formula.
Should I add extra cubic yards when ordering?
For material orders, many users add a waste or rounding allowance because dimensions, compaction, and supplier sizing vary.
Is a cubic yard calculator only for landscaping?
No. It is also useful for concrete, fill, gravel, excavation, and other projects quoted in yd3.
This calculator provides estimates based on the dimensions and assumptions you enter. For engineering, structural, freight, or purchasing decisions, verify the result with a qualified professional or supplier.