A cubic yard of topsoil weighs about 2,200 pounds, or 1.1 tons, as a planning value. Wet soil can weigh 20 to 30 percent more, and screened or sandy blends can weigh a little less.
The planning value
Our planning value for topsoil is 2,200 pounds per cubic yard. Garden soil, which has more organic matter, is about 1,700 pounds. Fill dirt is heavier at 2,400. Clay can be 2,700 or more.
One cubic foot of topsoil is about 81 pounds.
Why moisture matters
Soil holds water, and water weighs about 8.3 pounds per gallon. After a rainy week, a yard of soil can weigh several hundred pounds more. That can surprise people who are loading a pickup or trailer.
Can my pickup carry it?
Many half ton pickups have a payload of about 1,500 to 2,000 pounds, including passengers and gear. One cubic yard of topsoil is already above that. Many people haul only half a yard at a time, or have it delivered.
Convert to tons
A ton of topsoil is about 0.91 cubic yards. Ten tons is about 9.1 cubic yards.
Topsoil load weight at 2,200 pounds per cubic yard
| Cubic yards | US tons | Pounds |
|---|---|---|
| 0.5 | 0.55 | 1,100 |
| 1 | 1.10 | 2,200 |
| 2 | 2.20 | 4,400 |
| 3 | 3.30 | 6,600 |
| 5 | 5.50 | 11,000 |
| 10 | 11.00 | 22,000 |
Frequently asked questions
How much does a yard of topsoil weigh?
About 2,200 pounds, or 1.1 tons.
How much does a cubic foot of topsoil weigh?
About 81 pounds.
Does wet topsoil weigh more?
Yes, often 20 to 30 percent more.
How many yards of topsoil in a ton?
About 0.91 cubic yards.