How To
How Much Fill Dirt Do I Need? A Simple Yard Calculator
5 min read · Updated 2026-10-16
Multiply length × width × depth in feet, divide by 27 to get cubic yards, then add about 10–20% because fill settles and compacts. A 20 × 20 ft area raised 6 inches needs about 7.4 cubic yards before the settling allowance.
The formula
Multiply length × width × depth in feet, divide by 27 to get cubic yards, then add about 10–20% because fill settles and compacts. A 20 × 20 ft area raised 6 inches needs about 7.4 cubic yards before the settling allowance.
- 3 inches = 0.25 ft
- 6 inches = 0.5 ft
- 12 inches = 1 ft
Fill dirt vs. topsoil
Use fill to raise grade or fill holes; finish with 2–4 inches of topsoil where you want grass or plants to grow.
Delivery tips
Lay a tarp on pavers or driveways before the load is dumped, and pick a spot the trailer can back into. Text photos to (561) 345-9808 — you get a price back before anyone shows up, and you never pay for an estimate visit.
Common questions
How much does a cubic yard of fill weigh?
Roughly 2,000–2,700 lbs depending on moisture — heavier than most people expect.
Get a flat price today
All Out Rubbish serves every city in Palm Beach and Broward County. Text one photo and get a flat quote back — same-day pickup costs no extra.