Topsoil Calculator

Enter the area and depth and get cubic yards, cubic metres, bag counts, approximate weight and an optional cost.

Soil is heavy — around 1.35 tons per cubic yard — so the weight figure is worth checking before loading a trailer.

How to use the topsoil calculator

Enter the bed or lawn dimensions.

Set the depth and add extra for settling.

Read cubic yards, bags and weight.

Why use the Build Tally topsoil calculator

Settling allowance

Use the waste field to account for soil compacting down.

Weight shown

Judge what your vehicle or barrow can handle.

Raised beds

Enter internal dimensions and full depth.

Metric ready

Cubic metres and 40 L bags supported.

How much depth different jobs need

Overseeding or topdressing an existing lawn: a quarter to half an inch. A new lawn from seed or sod: 4–6 inches of good topsoil over the subgrade. Garden beds: 8–12 inches for most vegetables and perennials. Raised beds: fill to the full internal depth, which is usually where the volume surprises people — a 4 × 8 ft bed 12 inches deep takes about 1.2 cubic yards on its own.

Topsoil settles

Freshly delivered soil is loose and full of air. Once watered and settled it can lose 15–25% of its apparent volume, which is why a bed filled level on delivery day is noticeably low a fortnight later. Order 10–20% extra, or plan to top up. Our waste allowance field is the place to add that.

Weight and access

A cubic yard of topsoil weighs roughly 2,000–2,700 lb depending on moisture — considerably more after rain. A half-ton pickup should not carry more than about a yard. If your only access is through a garden gate, consider bags or a smaller bulk bag rather than a tipped pile you have to move by barrow.

Read the guide: How Much Mulch Do I Need? Bags, Cubic Yards and the Right Depth

Frequently asked questions

How much topsoil do I need?

Area in square feet × depth in feet ÷ 27 = cubic yards. Enter your figures above and the calculator does it.

How deep should topsoil be for a new lawn?

Four to six inches of quality topsoil over a prepared subgrade.

How much does a cubic yard of topsoil weigh?

Roughly 2,000–2,700 lb (about 1.35 tons), heavier when wet.

How much topsoil for a 4x8 raised bed?

A 4 × 8 ft bed 12 inches deep needs about 1.19 cubic yards, or roughly 32 cubic feet.

Does topsoil settle?

Yes, typically 15–25%. Order extra or plan to top up after the first few waterings.

What is the difference between topsoil and garden soil?

Topsoil is screened native soil. Garden or bed mixes are blended with compost and other amendments and cost more.