How the calculation works
Geometric yd³ = length × width × depth in inches ÷ 324. Multiply by the selected extra-volume factor; tons = ordered yd³ × supplier tons/yd³.
A worked example
A 20 × 20 ft area at 4 in depth measures 4.9383 yd³. A 15% extra-volume factor gives 5.6790 yd³.
What to check before using the result
- The percentage here is extra volume, not the percentage of loose material that shrinks.
- This tool does not select base type, depth, drainage or compaction specification.
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Method prepared 2026-10-21. See our calculation and editorial methods. Spotted a problem? Tell us about it.