The volume of mulch in a “scoop” lacks a universal answer because the term is not standardized across the industry. Bulk materials like mulch are sold by volume, typically measured in cubic feet or cubic yards. When a supplier uses the term “scoop,” it refers to the capacity of the heavy machinery used to load the material. The actual volume you receive depends on the specific equipment used and how the material is loaded.
The Standard Range of a Commercial Mulch Scoop
A commercial “scoop” corresponds to the stated bucket capacity of a front-end loader or skid-steer machine used at a supply yard. Equipment used in landscaping typically has bucket sizes that fall within a defined range, allowing for a reliable volume estimate. The most common capacities for these commercial buckets are one-half cubic yard and one full cubic yard.
To translate these figures into cubic feet, use the standard conversion: one cubic yard equals 27 cubic feet. Therefore, a half-cubic-yard scoop contains approximately 13.5 cubic feet of mulch. A one-cubic-yard scoop holds 27 cubic feet of material. Some suppliers utilize buckets sized at two-thirds of a cubic yard, which translates to about 18 cubic feet.
The expected range for a single commercial scoop of mulch is generally between 13.5 and 27 cubic feet. It is best practice to confirm the precise volume with your local supplier before ordering to avoid miscalculation. Knowing the supplier’s stated capacity allows for accurate project planning and cost comparison.
Variables Affecting Actual Scoop Volume
Although a supplier provides a stated bucket capacity, the actual volume delivered to the customer can be affected by the material and the loading process. Loader buckets have two capacity measurements: “struck” and “heaped.” Struck capacity is the volume when the material is level with the top edge of the bucket. Heaped capacity includes the volume of material piled above the edges.
The operator’s technique and the specific geometry of the bucket determine whether the load approaches the level or the heaped volume. A skilled operator may provide a slightly heaped scoop, meaning the customer receives more than the struck capacity. Conversely, a load that settles during transit or is not fully filled may result in a lower volume.
The density of the mulch also plays a role in the final volume. Wet mulch, which has a higher moisture content, is heavier and compacts more easily within the bucket than dry material. This compaction can reduce the air space within the load, potentially leading to a denser volume.
Calculating Your Project’s Mulch Needs
Before ordering, calculate the total volume of mulch required using a straightforward formula. Begin by measuring the length and width of the area in feet. These two measurements are multiplied together to determine the total square footage.
Next, decide on the desired depth for the mulch, typically between two and four inches. To incorporate this into the volume calculation, the depth measurement (in inches) must be converted to feet by dividing the number of inches by 12. For example, 3 inches converts to 0.25 feet.
The final step is to multiply the area (Length x Width) by the depth in feet to determine the total cubic feet of mulch required. For example, if a flower bed measures 20 feet long and 5 feet wide, and you desire a 3-inch depth, the total volume needed is 20 x 5 x 0.25, which equals 25 cubic feet. Divide this total cubic footage by the supplier’s scoop capacity to determine how many scoops to order.