Excavation Calculator
Calculate excavation and material quantities quickly, then turn the results into a professional project estimate.
Calculate the basic volume
For a simple rectangular excavation or material area, multiply length × width × depth. DirtQuote converts the dimensions into cubic yards and can add a waste/overage percentage.
For depth in inches, convert the depth to feet first. One cubic yard contains 27 cubic feet. The calculator is designed to keep those conversions out of the field math.
Estimate tons and truckloads
Once cubic yards are known, an estimated tonnage can be calculated using the material density you enter. Truckloads are based on the truck capacity you enter, so the result reflects your actual hauling setup rather than a generic assumption.
Actual delivered tonnage and load counts can vary with moisture, material type, legal payload limits, and how a truck is loaded.
Turn quantities into a quote
DirtQuote can combine material, delivery, haul-off, labor, equipment, project time, and markup into a single estimate. Enter your project information, calculate the job, and review the customer-ready estimate before sharing it.
More DirtQuote Resources
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Understand the cost categories that go into an excavation estimate.
Learn how DirtQuote helps contractors create field-ready estimates.