Excavation Calculator
An excavation calculator finds the volume of material you need to dig out and haul away, by multiplying the dig length by width by depth and converting to cubic yards and tons. Excavated soil swells when loosened, so haul volume exceeds the in-ground figure. Enter your dig dimensions below.
in-ground volume plus a swell factor (~25 percent) for loose haul volume.
- Cubic yards (in place)
- 0 yd³
- Loose / haul yards
- 0 yd³
- Tons (approx.)
- 0 t
Enter length, width and depth to see the volume.
Estimate only. Densities, yields and prices vary by supplier, moisture and region; confirm before ordering.
How Do You Calculate Excavation Volume?
To calculate excavation, multiply the dig length by width by depth in feet, then divide by 27 for cubic yards. A trench 20 feet long, 3 feet wide and 4 feet deep is 240 cubic feet, about 8.9 cubic yards in the ground. The calculator also shows the loose, swelled volume for hauling, which is larger because soil expands when dug out.
Why Is Excavated Dirt More Than the Hole?
Excavated dirt takes up more space than the hole it came from because digging loosens and aerates the soil, a property called swell. Depending on soil type, loose dirt can be 15 to 30 percent bulkier than its in-ground volume. This matters for hauling: you need truck capacity for the swelled volume, not the hole size. The calculator shows both figures.
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Frequently asked questions
- How do I calculate excavation volume?
- Multiply dig length by width by depth in feet and divide by 27 for cubic yards. A 20 by 3 by 4 foot trench is about 8.9 cubic yards in the ground.
- Why does excavated dirt take up more space?
- Digging loosens soil, a property called swell, making loose dirt 15 to 30 percent bulkier than its in-ground volume. Plan hauling for the swelled figure.