Calculate excavation and removal volume
Excavated soil generally occupies more space after it is loosened. Select a planning swell factor, then enter the verified capacity of the intended bin, trailer or truck.
Excavation formulas
In-place cubic yards = area × depth in inches ÷ 324
Loose volume = in-place volume × selected swell factor. Disposal loads = loose volume ÷ verified capacity, rounded up.
Excavating 500 square feet to 4 inches produces 6.17 cubic yards in place. A 25 percent swell allowance produces approximately 7.72 loose cubic yards.
What the estimate does not include
- Weight limits imposed by bins, trailers, vehicles or disposal facilities.
- Concrete, buried rubble, roots, wet clay or contaminated soil.
- Over-excavation required to correct unstable subgrade.
- Safe digging procedures, utility locating or permit requirements.
Capacity by volume does not mean the load is safe by weight. Confirm both limits with the vehicle, bin and disposal provider.
Last updated August 28, 2026. Arrange utility locates and confirm disposal requirements before excavation.