How many tons in a cubic yard of dirt?
Quick Answer
A cubic yard of average topsoil weighs approximately 1.1 tons (2,200 lbs). Dry fill dirt weighs about 1.0–1.1 tons per cubic yard, while compacted or wet clay-heavy soil can weigh 1.5–1.7 tons per yard. Sandy soil is on the lighter end at 1.0–1.1 tons per yard.
Quick Reference Table
| Soil type | Weight per cubic yard |
|---|---|
| Dry topsoil | ~1.1 tons (2,200 lbs) |
| Moist topsoil | ~1.35 tons (2,700 lbs) |
| Dry fill dirt | ~1.0–1.1 tons |
| Wet clay soil | ~1.5–1.7 tons |
| Sandy loam | ~1.1–1.3 tons |
| Compacted fill | ~1.25–1.35 tons |
How to Calculate It Yourself
- 1
One cubic yard = 27 cubic feet.
- 2
Typical topsoil density: 80–90 lbs per cubic foot.
- 3
27 × 85 lbs/cu ft = 2,295 lbs ≈ 1.15 tons per cubic yard.
- 4
For wet clay: 27 × 115 lbs/cu ft = 3,105 lbs ≈ 1.55 tons per yard.
- 5
To convert tons to cubic yards: tons ÷ 1.1 = approximate cubic yards of topsoil.
Pro Tip
When ordering topsoil or fill dirt, ask for the weight per yard from your supplier — it varies significantly with moisture content. Fresh-delivered soil is often much heavier than dry stored soil.
Assumptions to Check
Before ordering materials, confirm the dimensions, product coverage, waste factor, and local installation requirements for your project. Manufacturer coverage tables and local code rules can change the final quantity, especially for structural work, exterior projects, and irregular layouts.
Need an exact number for your specific dimensions?
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