Quantity calculator
The quantity calculator shows how many cubic metres and tonnes of bulk material (soil, gravel, sand, crushed stone or topsoil) you need and how many dump trucks would deliver it. Based on approximate material density and truck capacity.
Enter the area and layer thickness — we will estimate how much material you need.
Worked examples
Lawn — 100 m², 10 cm of topsoil
100 m² × 0.1 m = 10 m³; 10 m³ × 1.3 t/m³ ≈ 13 t
≈ 10 m³ · ≈ 13 t · ≈ 1 dump truck
Raising a plot — 600 m² (6 ares), 30 cm of fill soil
600 m² × 0.3 m = 180 m³; 180 m³ × 1.6 t/m³ ≈ 288 t
≈ 180 m³ · ≈ 288 t · ≈ 15 dump trucks
Driveway or yard — 100 m², 25 cm crushed stone base
100 m² × 0.25 m = 25 m³; 25 m³ × 1.7 t/m³ ≈ 43 t
≈ 25 m³ · ≈ 43 t · ≈ 3 dump trucks
Paving base for cars — 50 m², 30 cm of gravel
50 m² × 0.3 m = 15 m³; 15 m³ × 1.7 t/m³ ≈ 26 t
≈ 15 m³ · ≈ 26 t · ≈ 2 dump trucks
approximateFigures are approximate: material density and dump truck capacity (~14 m³ or ~20 t) are averages, so confirm the exact quantity with the supplier or haulier. For soil that will be compacted, add about 15–25%.
The exact volume of soil is measured and calculated by land surveyors, e.g. UAB GEOMANAI.
Frequently asked questions
How do I calculate how many m³ of material I need?
Multiply the area (m²) by the layer thickness in metres: e.g. 100 m² × 0.1 m = 10 m³. For soil or gravel that you will compact, add about 15–25%.
How do I convert cubic metres to tonnes?
Multiply the m³ by the material density. The calculator uses approximate densities: gravel and sand — 1.7 t/m³, fill soil — 1.6 t/m³, topsoil — 1.3 t/m³.
How much fits in one dump truck?
The calculator counts 14 m³ or 20 t per dump truck — whichever limit is reached first. Heavy materials such as gravel fit fewer cubic metres. The carrier will tell you the exact capacity.
Is the calculation exact?
No, the figures are approximate: the real density depends on moisture and grading, and truck bodies differ. Confirm the quantity with the supplier or carrier when ordering.