Excavation calculator
Calculate the volume of soil or material to be excavated for pits, trenches and sloped-side cuts. Results in m³, cubic yards and truck loads.
Inputs
Results
Volume (net)
Enter your measurements to see the result
cubic metres (m³)
With 15% buffer
—
m³
Cubic yards (incl. 15% buffer)
—
yd³
Removal trucks
—
@ 6m³ / truck
Litres
—
L
⚠ Add 10–15% buffer to account for over-excavation and soil swell. Actual removal volume may vary depending on soil type.
Frequently asked questions
How do I calculate excavation volume?
Multiply length × width × depth to get the volume in cubic metres. For trenches with sloped sides, use the average of the top and bottom width instead of a single width measurement.
How many trucks do I need to remove excavated soil?
A standard dump truck carries about 6 cubic metres of material. Divide your total excavation volume by 6 and round up to get the number of truck loads needed.
Why should I add a buffer to my excavation volume?
Soil swells when excavated — loose soil takes up more volume than compacted soil in the ground. A 10–15% buffer accounts for this swell and any over-excavation at the edges.
What is the difference between a pit and a trench excavation?
A pit is a broad, roughly square or rectangular hole (for foundations or basements), while a trench is long and narrow (for pipes, footings, or drainage). The volume calculation is the same for both.