DIY Cost Tools
Topsoil Calculator
Estimate topsoil volume in cubic feet and cubic yards, bag quantity, delivery loads, waste, and material cost from area and finished depth.
Measure: Measure the bed length and width in feet and enter the finished topsoil depth in inches after considering settlement and existing grade.
How the estimate works: The calculator uses your measurements, unit conversions, waste allowance, and product coverage to create a planning quantity. Review the formula shown above, then read the matching guide below before ordering. See How Our Calculators Work for assumptions and limitations.
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How this calculator works
Volume = length × width × depth in feet. Cubic yards divide cubic feet by 27; waste is added before bag, load, and cost estimates are rounded.
Account for settlement and grading
Loose soil can settle after spreading, watering, and traffic. Do not raise soil against siding, drainage openings, or tree trunks. Preserve planned slopes and drainage paths.
Compare bulk and bagged products
Bulk delivery is often practical for larger volumes, while bags can be easier for small or hard-to-access areas. Delivery minimums, source quality, screening, amendments, and cleanup affect the real project cost.
Read the complete topsoil planning guide: depth, cubic yards, bags, and delivery.
Topsoil-area example
A 30-by-20-foot area covered 3 inches deep contains 150 cubic feet of soil. Dividing by 27 gives about 5.56 cubic yards before an allowance. Bulk soil can settle, compact, and vary in moisture, so discuss the finished depth and supplier’s delivery increment before rounding the order. Bag volume should come from the selected product label.
Calculate grading areas and planting beds separately
Split slopes and curves into smaller shapes, and account for existing grade rather than assuming one uniform depth. Do not bury tree flares, cover drainage paths, or raise soil against siding. Screened topsoil, garden mixes, compost blends, and fill have different purposes; confirm composition and suitability. Delivery access, spreading, amendment, compaction, testing, and removed material are separate considerations.