How to calculate a dump truck load
A truck bed has a size and a weight limit, and both matter. This tool gives the volume, and the weight tool tells you whether the load is legal.
- Measure the inside length, width, and side height of the bed.
- Read the volume in cubic yards.
- Pick a material to see the weight, and compare it with the truck rating.
- Remember that heavy materials fill a bed by weight before they fill it by volume.
Worked example
For a typical dump truck load with length 14 ft, width 7 ft, depth 3 ft, the volume is 294.00 cubic feet. Divide by 27 for 10.89 cubic yards. With a 10 percent allowance, plan for 11.98 cubic yards.
Dump Truck Load sizes and quantities
These common sizes are calculated with the same formula as the tool above, so you can find your number quickly.
| Size | Cubic feet | Cubic yards | With 10 percent extra |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10 ft long, 6 ft wide, 3 ft high | 180.00 | 6.67 | 7.33 |
| 14 ft long, 7 ft wide, 3 ft high | 294.00 | 10.89 | 11.98 |
| 16 ft long, 7.5 ft wide, 4 ft high | 480.00 | 17.78 | 19.56 |
| 20 ft long, 8 ft wide, 5 ft high | 800.00 | 29.63 | 32.59 |
Tips
- Heaped loads carry more than level loads, but are not allowed everywhere.
- A truck can be full by volume with light mulch and overloaded by weight with wet soil.
- Ask the supplier how many yards their truck actually carries.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Assuming the nameplate size equals the usable size.
- Ignoring axle and road weight limits.
- Mixing up struck load and heaped load volumes.
Frequently asked questions
How many cubic yards do I need for a dump truck load?
Multiply the dimensions in feet and divide by 27. The example above, length 14 ft, width 7 ft, depth 3 ft, needs 10.89 cubic yards before waste.
How much extra should I order?
Add 5 to 10 percent for waste. Add more if the ground is uneven or the material is loose.
Can I enter inches and feet together?
Yes. Each box has its own unit selector, so you can mix feet and inches.