Excavation Calculator
NEWCalculate excavation volume for trenches, foundation pits, and ponds. Results include bank volume, loose volume with swell factor, truck loads, and estimated weight.
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How to use Excavation Calculator
- Select excavation type and unit system, then enter length, width, and depth.
- Set the swell factor (typically 20-30% for common soil) and truck capacity.
- Click Calculate for bank volume, loose volume, truck loads, and weight estimate.
What is Excavation Calculator?
An excavation calculator determines how much soil needs to be removed from a dig site. It accounts for the swell factor — soil expands 15-30% when dug up because air fills the gaps between particles. This means you need more truck capacity to haul loose soil than the in-ground volume suggests.
This calculator supports trench, foundation pit, and pond/pool shapes. It provides results in both cubic yards and cubic meters, and estimates the number of truck loads needed.
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FAQ
- What is the swell factor for soil?
- Common soil swells 20-30% when excavated. Clay swells 30-40%, sand swells 10-15%, and rock swells 40-60% depending on type.
- What is the difference between bank and loose volume?
- Bank volume is the soil in its natural, undisturbed state. Loose volume is after excavation when the soil has expanded. Always use loose volume for trucking estimates.
- How many cubic yards does a dump truck hold?
- A standard dump truck holds 10-14 cubic yards. A small pickup truck holds about 1-2 cubic yards. Tri-axle trucks can hold 15-18 cubic yards.
- How heavy is a cubic yard of soil?
- A cubic yard of common soil weighs approximately 2,000 pounds (1 ton). Wet clay can weigh up to 3,000 lbs per cubic yard.
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