Excavation Calculator
Calculate excavation volume and truck loads. Enter values for instant results with step-by-step formulas.
Formula
Volume = Length × Width × Depth
Calculate bank (in-place) volume, then apply bulking factor for loose volume to determine truck loads needed.
Worked Examples
Example 1: Foundation Excavation
Problem:Dig foundation pit 30×20×4 ft. Calculate removal volume.
Solution:Bank volume: 30 × 20 × 4 = 2,400 cu ft 2,400 ÷ 27 = 88.9 cubic yards Loose volume (25% bulking): 88.9 × 1.25 = 111 loose yards Truck loads (10-yard trucks): 111 ÷ 10 = 11.1 Need 12 truckloads
Result:89 bank yards = 111 loose yards (12 trucks)
Example 2: Trench Excavation
Problem:Utility trench 100 ft long, 2 ft wide, 3 ft deep.
Solution:Bank volume: 100 × 2 × 3 = 600 cu ft 600 ÷ 27 = 22.2 cubic yards Loose (30% bulking for clay): 22.2 × 1.30 = 28.9 loose yards Trucks: 28.9 ÷ 10 = 3 loads
Result:22 bank yards = 29 loose (3 trucks)
Example 3: Pool Excavation
Problem:Pool 15×30 ft, varying depth 4-8 ft (average 6 ft).
Solution:Using average depth: 15 × 30 × 6 = 2,700 cu ft 2,700 ÷ 27 = 100 cubic yards Loose (25% bulking): 100 × 1.25 = 125 yards Trucks: 13 loads
Result:100 bank yards = 125 loose (13 trucks)
Frequently Asked Questions
What is bank volume vs loose volume?
Bank volume: soil in its natural, undisturbed state (in-ground). Loose volume: same soil after excavation (expanded by air pockets). Soil 'bulks' 20-40% when excavated. Critical for truck capacity - you need more truck space than the hole volume suggests.
How do I calculate sloped excavation?
For safety, excavations need sloped sides. Slope ratios like 1:1 or 1.5:1 (horizontal:vertical). This expands top dimensions. Calculate using average width: (top width + bottom width) / 2, or use trapezoidal formulas. Slope requirements depend on soil type and depth.
Do I need permits for excavation?
Permits often required for: excavation over 4-5 feet deep, near property lines, in flood zones, or disturbing more than 1 acre. Call 811 (USA) for utility location before any digging. Violations can cause utility strikes, fines, or project shutdown.
How deep can I excavate safely?
OSHA requires protection for excavations 5+ feet deep: sloping, benching, or shoring/trench box. Depths 4-5 feet need competent person evaluation. Never enter deep, unsupported excavation - collapses kill workers every year. Hire professional for deep excavation.
What does excavation cost?
Excavation: $50-200 per cubic yard depending on soil, access, disposal. Machine rental: $200-1,000/day based on size. Operator: $50-100/hr if not included. Disposal: $30-100/yard at landfill. Total project varies widely - get multiple quotes for significant work.