Reference chart

Cubic Yard Cheat Sheet

All the numbers you need on one page: conversions, coverage, bag counts, and weights.

About this chart

All the numbers you need on one page: conversions, coverage, bag counts, and weights. Bookmark it or print it for the job site.

Every value is calculated with the same formulas as the calculators on this site. You can print the page or save it as a PDF for the job site.

Key conversions

Cubic yard cheat sheet
FactValue
Cubic feet in a cubic yard27
Cubic meters in a cubic yard0.7646
US gallons in a cubic yard201.97
Cubic yards in a cubic meter1.308
Square feet covered at 1 inch324
Square feet covered at 3 inches108
Square feet covered at 4 inches81
3 cu ft wheelbarrows per cubic yard9
2 cu ft bags per cubic yard13.5

Core formulas

  • Rectangle: length × width × depth ÷ 27
  • Circle: 3.1416 × radius × radius × depth ÷ 27
  • Triangle: ½ × base × height × depth ÷ 27
  • Cone: ⅓ × 3.1416 × radius × radius × height ÷ 27
  • Convert inches to feet by dividing by 12 first

Typical weights

Pounds per cubic yard
MaterialPounds
Concrete4,050
Mulch700
Gravel2,800
Dirt2,400
Topsoil2,200
Sand2,700
Fill Dirt2,400
Compost1,000
Crushed Stone2,700
Pea Gravel2,800

Frequently asked questions

What is the cubic yard cheat sheet?

All the numbers you need on one page: conversions, coverage, bag counts, and weights. Bookmark it or print it for the job site.

Are the values exact?

The volume math is exact. Weights and bag yields are planning values, so confirm with your supplier.

Can I print this chart?

Yes. The page prints cleanly, or you can save it as a PDF.

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