Last updated June 16, 2026 by our expert review team
Cubic Yard Conversion Table
To find cubic yards, multiply area by depth in feet, then divide by 27 — a 10 × 10 ft patio at 4 in deep is 33.3 ft³, or about 1.23 cubic yards. One cubic yard is 27 cubic feet (≈ 0.765 m³).
Bulk material is sold by the cubic yard, so this is the number to give a supplier.
| Conversion | Factor |
|---|---|
| 1 cubic yard | 27 ft³ |
| 1 cubic yard | 0.7646 m³ |
| 1 ft³ | 0.03704 yd³ |
| 1 m³ | 1.30795 yd³ |
The metric factor follows NIST customary-to-metric conversion guidance. Suppliers may round quantities for ordering.
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How we verify our calculatorsDepth Coverage Per Cubic Yard
| Depth | Approx coverage | Yd3 for 100 sq ft |
|---|---|---|
| 2 in | 162 sq ft per yd³ | 0.62 |
| 3 in | 108 sq ft per yd³ | 0.93 |
| 4 in | 81 sq ft per yd³ | 1.23 |
| 6 in | 54 sq ft per yd³ | 1.85 |
Coverage assumes level grade and no waste, compaction, or settling allowance.
Methodology
How the Cubic Yard Calculator Works
The calculator converts length and width to square feet, converts depth to feet, then multiplies area × depth to get cubic feet. Cubic yards are cubic feet divided by 27.
For concrete context, NRMCA CIP 31 notes that ready mixed concrete is manufactured and delivered under ASTM C94/C94M, so confirm mix and delivery details with the supplier.
Formulas
Volume (ft³) = area (ft²) × depth (ft)
Cubic yards = cubic feet ÷ 27
Cubic meters = cubic yards × 0.764554858
Quick Reference
- 1 yd³
- 27 ft³
- 1 yd³
- 0.7646 m³
- 2 in depth
- 162 sq ft/yd³
- 4 in depth
- 81 sq ft/yd³
- 6 in depth
- 54 sq ft/yd³
How Many Cubic Yards Does a Truck Hold?
Bulk material is delivered by the cubic yard. Rough capacities so you can plan delivery vs. hauling it yourself:
| Vehicle / load | Capacity |
|---|---|
| Pickup truck (level) | ~2 yd³ |
| Pickup truck (heaped) | ~2.5–3 yd³ |
| Dump trailer | ~3–5 yd³ |
| Single-axle dump truck | ~5–8 yd³ |
| Tandem dump truck | ~10–16 yd³ |
Approximate. Always confirm legal load limits and tailgate clearance before hauling heavy material.
Cubic Yard Examples
Small Patio Slab
10 x 10 ft at 4 inUse the concrete slab calculator when reinforcement, forms, and ready-mix cost matter.
Driveway Gravel Run
20 x 12 ft at 6 inFor gravel, convert yards to tons with the material density before ordering.
Mulch Bed
300 sq ft at 3 inMulch often needs a waste or settling allowance, so use the mulch calculator for final ordering.
Avoid these
Cubic Yard Mistakes That Change Orders
Leaving depth in inches
Convert inches to feet before multiplying. Four inches is 0.333 ft.
Forgetting the divide-by-27 step
Area x depth gives cubic feet. Divide by 27 for cubic yards.
Using volume as tons
Cubic yards are volume. Tons need density, moisture, and material type.
Skipping waste or compaction where needed
This converter gives exact volume. Material calculators add waste, compaction, or bag yield.
Cubic Yard Calculator FAQs
How many cubic feet are in a cubic yard?
How many cubic yards do I need for 100 square feet at 3 inches deep?
How many cubic yards are in a 10x10 slab at 4 inches?
Should I use cubic yards or tons for gravel?
Should I order bagged material or bulk cubic yards?
How much does a cubic yard of concrete cost?
Why does depth need to be converted to feet?
Is this the same as a concrete calculator?
For a material order, move from this converter to the gravel calculator, concrete slab calculator, mulch calculator, or soil calculator.
Important Disclaimer
These estimates are for planning purposes only. Actual costs vary by location, material availability, and project complexity. Always get at least 3 local quotes. This calculator does not replace professional advice.