Soil Calculator

Digging a foundation, pond or basement? The soil takes more space once dug, which matters when you hire trucks or trolleys to remove it.

Measure in
Dug soil takes about 20% to 30% more space.
Results update as you type.

Soil volume (in the ground)

50.97 m³ (1,800 cft)

18 brass

Loose volume to carry
63.71 m³ (2,250 cft)+25% bulking
Truck loads
11at 6 m³ each

For filling, order about 20% more than the hole’s volume because soil compacts.

About this calculator

Enter the size, the bulking percentage and the truck capacity.

How to use it

  1. Choose feet or metres and enter the dimensions.
  2. Choose the mix or materials.
  3. Read the quantities to order.

The formula

Loose volume = in-place volume × (1 + bulking)
bulking
20% to 30% for most soils

Worked example

A 30 × 20 ft pit, 3 ft deep

  1. In-place volume = 1,800 cft = 51 m³ (18 brass).
  2. Loose = 63.7 m³; at 6 m³ a load, 11 trips.

What the result means

For filling, order about 20% more than the hole because soil compacts.

Assumptions

  • Rectangular pit.

Limitations

  • Rock and wet clay behave differently.

Frequently asked questions

How much does soil expand when dug?

Usually 20% to 30%.

How much does a tractor trolley carry?

Often 2.5 to 3 m³; trucks carry more.

Is excavation measured in brass?

Often, yes: 1 brass = 100 cft.

Last reviewed on 3 October 2026. Found a mistake? Tell us.