Last updated: March 2, 2026 by Dr. David Park

How to Calculate Cubic Yards

Formula

cubic yards = (length × width × depth in feet) / 27

Cubic yards are the standard unit for ordering bulk materials like concrete, gravel, mulch, and soil. To calculate cubic yards, multiply length by width by depth (all in feet) and divide by 27.

This calculator accepts depth in inches for convenience since material depth is often specified in inches (e.g., 4 inches of gravel).

Common use cases:

  • Ordering concrete for slabs and footings
  • Calculating mulch or gravel for landscaping
  • Estimating soil for raised garden beds

Frequently Asked Questions

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Dr. David Park

Applied Mathematician, PhD Mathematics

David holds a PhD in Applied Mathematics from MIT. He has published research on numerical methods and computational algorithms used in engineering and scientific calculators.

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