Cut and Fill Calculator

The Cut and Fill Calculator estimates earthwork volumes for excavation and grading projects — telling you how much soil or rock needs to be moved and how many truck loads it will take to haul it away. Enter your site's length, width, and depth/height, then select the shape, swell factor (soil type), truck capacity, and units. You'll get the in-place volume, the bank volume after swell, and the number of truck loads required.

Results

In-Place Volume

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Bank Volume (Swelled)

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Truck Loads Required

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between in-place volume and bank volume?

In-place volume is the actual volume of the excavated area before the soil is disturbed. Bank volume (or swelled volume) accounts for the expansion of soil when it's excavated and loose, which is always larger due to air voids between particles.

How do I determine the correct swell factor for my soil type?

Swell factors vary by soil type: compacted fill (10%), clay (15%), common earth (20%), sand/gravel (25%), and rock (30%). The factor represents how much the volume increases when excavated from its natural state.

Why does the calculator round up truck loads?

Truck loads are rounded up because you need whole trucks for transportation. Even if you only need 8.3 truck loads, you'll still need to hire 9 trucks to complete the job.

How do shape factors affect volume calculations?

Different shapes have different volume formulas: rectangular uses the full length × width × depth, triangular uses half that volume, circular uses π/4 of the area, and trapezoidal uses approximately 75% depending on slope angles.

What factors can affect the accuracy of volume calculations?

Accuracy depends on precise measurements, correct soil type identification, consistent soil conditions throughout the site, and accounting for compaction requirements. Site surveys and soil testing improve accuracy.

How do I handle mixed soil types in one excavation?

For mixed soil types, calculate each section separately with its appropriate swell factor, then sum the results. Alternatively, use a weighted average swell factor based on the proportion of each soil type.

What is cut and fill in construction?

Cut and fill is an earthmoving process where soil is excavated (cut) from higher elevations and moved to lower areas (fill) to create a level grade. It's essential for site preparation, road construction, and foundation work.