Cut & Fill Calculator — ft, yd³ (Slope Grading)
How to use this calculator
Choose a method: Simple for uniform cut or fill across a known area, Two-Point for comparing existing grade vs desired grade across a length, or Grid for 4-corner elevation averaging. The calculator shows cut volume, fill volume, net earthwork, swell-adjusted hauling volume, and truck loads.
Swell factor — soil expands 20–50% when excavated. Clay ~35%, loam ~25%, sand ~15%, rock ~50%. Adjust the slider to match your soil type.
Trucks — based on standard 10 yd³ dump truck capacity.
Saved Calculations
| Time | Method | Area ft² | Cut yd³ | Fill yd³ | Net yd³ | Haul yd³ | Trucks |
|---|
How to Calculate Cut & Fill Volumes
This cut and fill calculator estimates earthwork volumes for site grading projects. Choose from three methods: Simple (uniform depth across a rectangular area), Two-Point (linear grade change from start to end), or Grid (4-corner elevation averaging). All volumes are in cubic yards with soil swell factor adjustment for hauling estimates.
Formulas
Simple: Volume = Area × Depth ÷ 27. Two-Point: At each end, difference = existing − desired. Volume = Area × average difference ÷ 27. Where cut and fill occur, the calculator splits at the crossover point. Grid: Average existing elevation = (C1+C2+C3+C4)/4, same for desired. Difference × Area ÷ 27. Swell: Loose volume = Bank volume × (1 + swell %).
Swell Factors by Soil Type
Sand/gravel: 10–20% · Loam/topsoil: 20–30% · Clay: 30–40% · Shale: 35–45% · Rock: 40–60%. The swell factor accounts for volume increase when soil is excavated and loaded loose.
FAQ
What is bank vs loose volume? Bank volume is soil in its natural compacted state. Loose volume is after excavation — it occupies more space due to air voids. How many trucks? Based on a standard 10 yd³ dump truck hauling loose material. Adjust for your truck capacity as needed.
