Estimate rectangular earthwork cut volume from length, average width, and average depth. The calculator reports in-place bank cubic yards, cubic feet, and loose hauling volume after an optional swell factor. Use measured or surveyed dimensions for early quantity checks, truck planning, and comparisons with takeoff data; irregular grades should be divided into smaller sections for a more reliable total.
Loose yd³ = bank yd³ × (1 + swell percentage).
Bank volume describes material before disturbance. Loose volume applies the entered swell factor and is the more relevant figure for temporary stockpiles or hauling capacity.
This rectangular-volume estimate does not replace a survey, cross-section takeoff, or civil model. Separate different soil types when their swell factors differ.
A cut 300 ft long, 40 ft wide, and 4 ft deep contains 48,000 ft³, or 1,777.78 bank yd³. With 20% swell, the estimated loose volume is 2,133.33 yd³.
Multiply length, width, and average depth in feet, then divide cubic feet by 27 to obtain cubic yards.
Excavated soil often occupies more volume after disturbance. Swell converts bank volume to an estimated loose hauling volume.
Use a surveyed or section-weighted average. A simple average may be unreliable where grades vary sharply.
Bank cubic yards describe material in place; loose cubic yards estimate its volume after excavation and expansion.
Only if the entered dimensions include it. Add required working space or overcut to the measured dimensions before calculating.
| Input | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Cut length | Measured horizontal extent |
| Average cut width | Average measured width |
| Average cut depth | Average vertical depth |
| Swell factor | Expansion after excavation |