How to use the cubic yard calculator
- Enter the length, width and height (or depth), choosing a unit for each. Mixing units is fine: for example feet for length and width and inches for depth.
- Set a quantity if you have several identical areas or containers.
- Optionally enter a price per cubic yard to estimate cost.
How the calculation works
A cubic yard is a cube 3 ft on each side, so it contains 3 × 3 × 3 = 27 cubic feet. The calculator converts every dimension to the same base unit using exact conversion factors, multiplies them, and reports the volume in cubic yards, cubic feet, cubic meters and liters.
The most common mistake is mixing units without converting: multiplying 10 ft × 10 ft × 6 in as if all three were feet gives 600 “cubic feet” instead of 50. Because each dimension here has its own unit selector, the depth can stay in inches while length and width are in feet.
The quantity field multiplies the volume of one box, which is useful for several identical planters, post holes dug as square pits, or repeated bays of a trench. For a shape that is not a rectangular box, such as a circle, triangle or L-shape, work out the area first and multiply by the depth.
Formula
Worked examples
A 10 × 10 ft bed, 6 in deep
10 × 10 × 0.5 = 50 ft³. 50 ÷ 27 = 1.852 yd³ (1.416 m³).
A trench 20 m long, 60 cm wide, 90 cm deep
20 × 0.6 × 0.9 = 10.8 m³ = 14.126 yd³.
Assumptions and limitations
- Assumes a rectangular box shape. For circles or irregular areas, find the area first with the square feet calculator.
- Loose materials settle and compact; add an allowance when ordering.
Frequently asked questions
How many cubic feet are in a cubic yard?
Exactly 27 cubic feet, because a cubic yard is 3 ft × 3 ft × 3 ft. To convert cubic feet to cubic yards, divide by 27.
How do I convert inches of depth to cubic yards?
Divide the depth in inches by 12 to get feet, multiply by length and width in feet, then divide by 27.
How much area does a cubic yard cover?
324 sq ft at 1 in deep, 162 sq ft at 2 in, 108 sq ft at 3 in and 81 sq ft at 4 in.
Sources and references
- NIST Special Publication 811, Guide for the Use of the International System of Units (SI).