How Much Soil is in a Cubic Yard? (And How to Calculate Exactly What You Need)
If you're planning a garden project, landscaping, or filling raised beds, you’ve probably come across the term cubic yard when ordering soil, compost, or mulch. But what does that actually look like, and how much do you really need?
Let’s break it down so you can accurately calculate your soil needs and avoid under- or over-ordering.
What is a Cubic Yard of Soil?
A cubic yard is a standard volume measurement used for bulk materials like topsoil, compost, and mulch. It equals:
✅ 27 cubic feet (a 3 ft × 3 ft × 3 ft cube)
✅ Approximately 750 lbs of soil (varies based on moisture and material)
✅ Enough to cover 10’ × 10’ with 3 inches of soil
How Much Area Does One Cubic Yard Cover?
Use this quick reference guide to estimate soil coverage:
| Depth of Soil | Coverage Area |
|---|---|
| 1 inch | 324 sq ft (about the size of a small bedroom) |
| 2 inches | 162 sq ft |
| 3 inches | 108 sq ft |
| 6 inches | 54 sq ft |
| 12 inches | 27 sq ft (ideal for deep raised beds) |
How to Calculate How Much Soil You Need
Use this simple formula to determine how many cubic yards to order:
📏 (Length in feet) × (Width in feet) × (Depth in feet) ÷ 27 = Cubic yards needed
Example Calculation:
If you're filling a 4' × 8' raised bed that’s 12 inches (1 foot) deep:
4 × 8 × 1 ÷ 27 = 1.2 cubic yards of soil
What Does a Cubic Yard of Soil Look Like?
- A single cubic yard fits in most pickup truck beds. (Most trucks can handle 2 yards.)
- A 1-yard bulk tote measures 3 ft × 3 ft × 3 ft.
- 1 cubic yard equals 27 cubic feet or 201 gallons of soil.
Order the Right Amount of Soil the First Time
Whether you're topping off raised beds, refreshing garden beds, or setting up a no-till space, knowing exactly how much soil you need saves time and money.
💬 Still unsure how much to order? We’re happy to help! Contact us for a soil quote and delivery options:
📧 info@sdmicrobeworks.com
or Leave us a message at 1-888-755-SOIL and someone will reach back out.