Excavation calculator

Excavation volume calculator: cubic yards and truckloads

Estimate a simple rectangular excavation in bank cubic yards, then apply a swell factor for loose material and approximate hauling loads.

Excavation planning

Estimate in-place volume, loose volume and truckloads.

Useful for rectangular cuts, trenches and simple excavation planning. Irregular sites require field measurements or a takeoff.

Length ft Width ft Average depth ft Swell factor % Truck capacity yd³

Bank volume vs. loose volume

Bank volume is the material before excavation. Once disturbed, many soils occupy more space; the swell factor estimates that increase. Actual swell, payload and truck capacity vary, so use field or supplier values when available.

Good for early planning

Trenches, rectangular cuts, foundation excavations, simple pads and rough hauling estimates. Irregular grades and complex earthwork should be measured with a proper takeoff.

Need a project-specific quantity tool on your website?See Custom Calculators