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Cubic Yard Calculator

Convert dimensions or area and depth into cubic yards, two-cubic-foot bag equivalents, allowance, and cost.

Calculated and reviewed by HomeTaskKit Editorial Team ·
Quick answer

One cubic yard equals 27 cubic feet. Multiply length × width × depth in consistent units, divide cubic feet by 27, then add any allowance required for compaction, settling, or an uneven base.

Your planning estimate1.94 cubic yards

50 cu ft · about 26.3 two-cu-ft bags.

Measured need1.85 yd³ measured volumeBuy / plan1.94 yd³ after 5% allowance
Formula: footprint area × depth × quantity ÷ 27 × allowance
Shopping list
  • Bulk material1.94 cubic yards

Bulk suppliers may sell in half-yard or full-yard increments. Confirm minimums, delivery fees, material density, and compaction before ordering.

Use it well

Step by step

  1. 1

    Choose dimensions or area-and-depth mode and convert every measurement to the units shown.

  2. 2

    Calculate each section separately when depth varies, then combine the volumes.

  3. 3

    Apply material-specific compaction or waste and confirm whether the supplier sells fractional or only whole cubic yards.

Worked example

Check the estimate before you buy

Convert length, width, and depth—or a known area and depth—into cubic yards, bag equivalents, allowance, and optional material cost.

Example

A 20 × 10 ft area filled 3 in deep is 50 cubic feet, or 1.85 cubic yards. A 5% allowance raises the planning order to about 1.94 cubic yards, equal to roughly 26 two-cubic-foot bags.

How the calculation works

The footprint area is multiplied by depth in feet and quantity. Dividing cubic feet by 27 gives cubic yards; the selected allowance is applied last.

Planning checklist

Before you place the order

  • Use compacted or finished depth when that is how the material is specified.
  • Ask whether the supplier sells half-yard or full-yard increments.
  • Calculate different depths or materials separately before adding totals.
Common questions

Cubic Yard Calculator FAQ

How many cubic feet are in a cubic yard?

Exactly 27 cubic feet fit in one cubic yard.

How many 2 cu ft bags make a cubic yard?

Mathematically, 13.5 bags. Purchasing a full cubic yard in bags requires 14 full two-cubic-foot bags before any allowance.

Should I add extra material?

Use an allowance when settlement, compaction, uneven grade, spillage, or uncertain measurements apply.

Can I use square footage instead of length and width?

Yes. Choose the known-area mode, enter square feet and depth, then add any allowance.

Source & method

Reference: NIST Handbook 44 units and measurement tables. Results are practical estimates; complete labels, package directions, product specifications, and qualified professional advice take priority.