Fill Dirt Cost Calculator
Accurately calculate fill dirt cost, volume, and delivery fees. Get instant estimates for your landscaping or construction project with current 2024 pricing.
Pro Fill Dirt Calculator
Accurate estimates for Yards, Tons, & Compaction
Results
How to Calculate for Fill Dirt Cost Calculator
The Formula
Calculate fill dirt costs by multiplying length, width, and depth (in feet) to get cubic feet, then divide by 27 for cubic yards. Multiply by your local price per cubic yard. Add 10-15% for compaction. Example: 25ft × 15ft × 0.67ft = 251 cu ft ÷ 27 = 9.3 cubic yards × $12/yard = $112 + 15% = $129
Measure Accurately
Measure in feet. For depth, measure in inches and our tool handles the conversion (divide by 12).
Check Your Shape
Most fill dirt-cost-calculator projects are areas. If irregular, break it into smaller shapes.
Add Compaction
Accurate cost calculations prevent budget overruns and material shortages. Fill dirt pricing varies significantly by region ($5-$30/yard), material type, and delivery distance. Understanding true costs including delivery fees, compaction factors, and hidden expenses ensures you order the right amount and budget appropriately.
Planning a landscaping project or foundation work? Understanding how much fill dirt you need and what it will cost can be challenging without the right tools. Our fill dirt cost calculator takes the guesswork out of calculating cost of fill dirt by providing instant, accurate estimates based on your project dimensions.
Whether you're leveling your yard, filling a pool, building up foundation areas, or tackling any project requiring bulk soil, this fill dirt price calculator handles the complex math for you. Simply enter your measurements above, and you'll get precise volume calculations and cost estimates that help you budget effectively and order the right amount of material.
This comprehensive guide explains everything you need to know about fill dirt costs, from basic calculations and regional pricing to delivery fees and cost-saving strategies. You'll learn how to measure your area accurately, choose the right type of fill dirt, and avoid common mistakes that waste money.
Table of Contents
How to Use the Fill Dirt Cost Calculator
Step-by-Step Instructions
Using our calculator is straightforward, but following these steps ensures maximum accuracy for your project estimates.
- Enter Length: Measure the longest dimension of the area you want to fill using a tape measure. The calculator accepts feet and inches (e.g., 20.5 feet).
- Enter Width: Measure the narrowest dimension perpendicular to length. For irregular shapes, divide the area into sections and calculate separately.
- Enter Depth: Measure desired depth in inches. Common depths are 6" for minor leveling or 12-24" for grade changes.
- Select Units: Choose feet, inches, yards, or meters from the dropdown. Consistency matters.
- Input Price: Enter your local cost per cubic yard (typically $5-$25). Contact local suppliers for current rates.
- Review Results: See cubic feet, cubic yards, and total cost estimates instantly, including 10-15% compaction factor.
Understanding Your Results
- Cubic Yards conversion: Suppliers sell by the yard, but you likely measure in feet. We divide cubic feet by 27 to get cubic yards. Use our cubic yards calculator for detailed volume estimates.
- Compaction Factor: We automatically add 10-15% volume because dirt compresses and settles. Without this, you would run short.
- Truck Loads: Standard dump trucks hold 10-14 yards. We estimate trips based on volume to help you plan delivery logistics.
How to Calculate Fill Dirt Cost Manually
The Basic Formula
Volume (First) = Length × Width × Depth
Important: Convert all measurements to feet first! (Divide inches by 12)
Example: 25 ft long × 15 ft wide × 8 inches deep (0.67 ft)
25 × 15 × 0.67 = 251 cubic feet
Adding Compaction Factor
Soil naturally compresses. You need 10-20% extra material to reach your target elevation after settling. Learn more about compacted fill dirt calculations.
Fill Dirt Cost Per Cubic Yard (2024 Prices)
Fill dirt costs vary by quality and region. Here are current average price ranges to help you budget.
Standard Fill Dirt
Unscreened, contains rocks/roots. Best for deep filling.
Screened Fill
Debris removed (1-2" screen). Spreads easily, good for lawns.
Clean Certified Fill
Guaranteed contaminant-free. Required for environmental compliance.
Structural Fill
Engineered specifications for foundations and load-bearing use.
Regional Price Variations
Key Insight: Prices vary based on local geology and construction demand.
- Northeast ($10-$25): Higher labor/transport costs. Rocky soil often commands premiums.
- Southeast ($5-$15): Abundant material and lower costs keep prices down.
- Midwest ($8-$15): Moderate pricing, widely available in agricultural areas.
- West Coast ($12-$30): High regulation, labor, and transport costs drive prices up.
Delivery Costs Explained
Delivery often exceeds material cost for small orders. Understanding pricing structures is essential for your budget.
Distance-Based Pricing
- $0Short Distance (0-5 miles)
Checking for free delivery? Many suppliers offer free delivery for orders over 10-20 yards within 5 miles.
- $50+Local (5-10 miles)
Flat fees typically range $50-$150 depending on load size.
- $150+Medium Distance (10-30 miles)
Expect $150-$300. Mileage fees may apply ($3-$5 per mile).
- $300+Long Distance (30+ miles)
Can exceed $300-$600. Typically not economical unless sourcing specialized material.
Dump Truck Capacity Guide
Knowing your truck size helps plan site access and delivery logistics.
Standard Truck
10-14 yards
Best for residential driveways
Large/Tandem
15-20 yards
Needs wide clearance
Semi/End Dump
20-30 yards
Commercial sites only
How to Measure Your Area
Rectangular Areas
Measure length at longest point, width at widest point. For depth, measure at multiple spots and use the average if grade varies.
Tip: Use a 100ft tape measure for yard projects. Cloth tapes stretch and cause errors.
Irregular Shapes
Divide complex shapes into smaller rectangles or squares. Calculate each section separately and add them together. For circles, use the formula π × r² × depth.
Fill Dirt vs Other Materials
| Material | Cost/Yard | Best For | Not For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fill Dirt | $5 - $15 | Raising grade, filling holes, foundations | Gardening, top 6" of lawn |
| Topsoil | $15 - $50 | Gardens, lawns, planting | Deep filling, foundations (too spongy) |
| Sand | $15 - $50 | Drainage, pavers, pipe bedding | Steep slopes (erodes easily) |
| Gravel | $20 - $60 | Driveway base, heavy drainage | Growing plants, tight compaction |
Common Project Cost Examples
Leveling a Yard (1,000 sq ft)
Raising a small yard 6 inches requires ~15 cubic yards. See our square feet calculator for area-based calculations.
- • Material: $75 - $225
- • Delivery: $100 - $150
- • Total: $375 - $775 (with professional grading)
Filling a Pool (15 x 30 ft)
Requires ~85 cubic yards plus demolition debris. Check our specialized pool fill calculator for detailed estimates.
- • Material: $425 - $1,275
- • Delivery: $200 - $400
- • Total: $2,500 - $6,000 (complex demo & compaction)
Additional Costs to Budget For
- Labor & SpreadingPros charge $50-$150/hr. Equipment rental (Bobcat) costs $200-$400/day.
- PermitsRequired >50 yards or 12" depth. Costs $50-$500 depending on city.
- Site PrepClearing brush/trees ($100-$1,000). Silt fencing for erosion control ($3-$8/ft).
- Soil TestingOptional but recommended for foundations. Compaction/contaminant tests cost $50-$200.
How to Save Money on Fill Dirt
- 📦Order in Bulk
50+ yards often triggers wholesale pricing ($2-$5/yard savings).
- 🤝Share with Neighbors
Coordinate projects to split delivery fees and reach bulk tiers.
- 🏗️Check Construction Sites
Excavators often pay to dump clean dirt. They may give it to you for free (verify quality first!).
- ❄️Off-Season Ordering
Winter orders often come with 10-20% discounts compared to spring peak pricing.
Professional Installation vs DIY
When to DIY
- Small projects under 20 cubic yards
- Non-structural work (flower beds, minor holes)
- You have truck/trailer access
- Physically fit for heavy spreading
- Budget is primary concern
When to Hire Pros
- Large volume (50+ yards)
- Structural/Foundation work
- Site has steep slopes or difficult access
- Project requires permits and inspections
- Tight deadline or need perfect grading
Fill Dirt Quality: What to Look For
Not all dirt is equal. Inspect loads before they dump.
✅ Acceptable Marks
- • Brown/Tan color (natural subsoil)
- • Mixed particle sizes (sand/clay/silt)
- • Moderate moisture (clumps but crumbs)
- • Some small rocks ok for general fill
❌ Red Flags (Reject Load)
- • Chemical/Petroleum odors
- • Construction debris (wood, glass, asphalt)
- • Excessive organic matter (roots/black soil)
- • Liquid/Muddy consistency
Compaction: The Critical Step
Loose dirt settles. To stop your ground from sinking later, you must compact effectively.
Best Practices
- Layer it: Spread dirt in 6-8 inch layers ("lifts"). Do not fill a 3ft hole all at once.
- Moisturize: Dirt should be slightly damp. Too dry = won't bind. Too wet = bounces (spongy).
- Compact: Use a plate compactor (rent for ~$80/day). Pass over each spot 3-4 times.
- Repeat: Add next layer and repeat until final grade is reached.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about fill dirt pricing, delivery, and installation.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a yard of fill dirt cost?
Fill dirt costs $5-$25 per cubic yard depending on type and location. Standard fill: $5-$15/yard, Screened: $12-$25/yard, Clean certified: $8-$20/yard, Structural/engineered: $15-$30/yard. Prices vary by region, with Northeast typically higher ($10-$25) and Southeast lower ($5-$15).
How many cubic yards of fill dirt do I need?
Calculate: (Length × Width × Depth in feet) ÷ 27 = cubic yards. Example: 20ft × 15ft × 0.5ft = 150 cu ft ÷ 27 = 5.6 cubic yards. Add 10-15% for compaction, so order 6-7 cubic yards.
How much does fill dirt weigh?
Dry fill dirt: 2,000-2,200 lbs/cubic yard. Moist dirt: 2,400-2,700 lbs/cubic yard. Wet dirt: 2,800-3,200 lbs/cubic yard. Weight matters for truck capacity limits.
Can I get fill dirt delivered for free?
Some suppliers offer free delivery within 5-10 miles for orders of 10-20+ cubic yards. Otherwise, expect delivery fees of $50-$600 depending on distance. Check Craigslist or construction sites for free dirt from excavations.
Is fill dirt cheaper than topsoil?
Yes. Fill dirt costs $5-$15/yard while topsoil runs $10-$50/yard. Fill dirt lacks organic matter and nutrients, making it unsuitable for planting but perfect for structural filling and leveling.
How do I calculate cubic yards of fill dirt?
Formula: (Length × Width × Depth in feet) ÷ 27. Convert inches to feet first (6 inches = 0.5 ft). Then add 10-15% for compaction.
How many cubic feet are in a cubic yard?
27 cubic feet = 1 cubic yard (3ft × 3ft × 3ft). To convert cubic feet to yards, divide by 27. To convert yards to feet, multiply by 27.
How much fill dirt fits in a dump truck?
Standard dump truck: 10-14 cubic yards. Large dump truck: 15-20 cubic yards. Semi-trailer: 25-30 cubic yards. Actual capacity depends on material weight.
What is the minimum delivery amount?
Most suppliers require 10-20 cubic yard minimums for delivery. Smaller amounts may incur surcharges or require self-pickup with your own truck.
Should I add extra for compaction?
Yes, always add 10-20% extra. Light landscaping: 10-12%, Yard leveling: 12-15%, Foundation work: 15-20%. Fill dirt settles as air spaces compress.
How much does delivery cost?
Local (0-10 mi): $50-$150. Medium (10-30 mi): $150-$300. Long distance (30+ mi): $300-$600+. Many suppliers offer free delivery within 5-10 miles for minimum orders.
What's the difference between fill dirt types?
Common fill ($5-$15/yard): unscreened, contains rocks. Screened ($12-$25/yard): debris removed, easier spreading. Clean ($8-$20/yard): certified contaminant-free. Structural ($15-$30/yard): engineered for foundations.
How long does delivery take?
Spring/summer peak: 3-7 days. Fall/winter: 1-3 days. Some suppliers offer next-day delivery. Plan 3-5 days ahead for typical scheduling.
Do I need to be present for delivery?
Usually yes, to direct placement, verify quantity, and inspect quality. If absent, mark dumping location clearly and leave contact information.
Can delivery trucks access my property?
Check: road width (8-9ft needed), overhead clearance (15-18ft for raised dump beds), weight limits, turning radius (20-30ft truck length), and ground stability. Inform suppliers of access limitations.
