How to convert cubic yards to bags
Multiply cubic yards by 27, then divide by the bag size in cubic feet. Round up to whole bags and add a small spare allowance.
Cubic Yards to Bags table
Use the table to check your answer or to find common values quickly. It uses the same math as the calculator above.
| Cubic yards | Bags (0.5 cu ft bag) | Bags (1 cu ft bag) | Bags (2 cu ft bag) | Bags (3 cu ft bag) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 0.5 cubic yards | 27 | 13.5 | 6.75 | 4.5 |
| 1 cubic yards | 54 | 27 | 13.5 | 9 |
| 2 cubic yards | 108 | 54 | 27 | 18 |
| 3 cubic yards | 162 | 81 | 40.5 | 27 |
| 5 cubic yards | 270 | 135 | 67.5 | 45 |
| 10 cubic yards | 540 | 270 | 135 | 90 |
| 20 cubic yards | 1,080.0 | 540 | 270 | 180 |
| 50 cubic yards | 2,700.0 | 1,350.0 | 675 | 450 |
Worked example
Suppose you have 2 cubic yards. Using the same factors as the calculator, that equals 108.00 bags (0.5 cu ft bag). Round up when you are ordering material, because a small shortage costs more than a small surplus.
Frequently asked questions
How do I convert cubic yards to bags?
Multiply cubic yards by 27, then divide by the bag size in cubic feet. Round up to whole bags and add a small spare allowance.
How many bags are in 1 cubic yard?
1 cubic yards equals 13.5 bags.
Is the conversion exact?
Volume to volume conversions are exact. Anything involving weight, bags, area, or loads relies on a material or size you choose, so those answers are estimates.
Should I round up?
Yes. When buying material, round up to the next quarter or half yard and add a small allowance.