The question of how much a yard of soil weighs is complex because the answer is not a single fixed number. While a cubic yard is a specific measurement of volume, the weight of the material filling that volume can vary dramatically. This variability occurs because soil is a natural substance composed of solids, liquids, and gases, all contributing differently to the overall mass. Understanding the distinction between volume and weight is important for planning any landscaping or construction project.
Defining a Cubic Yard and the Average Weight Range
A “yard” of soil is shorthand for a cubic yard, a unit of volume equivalent to 27 cubic feet. This volume is the space occupied by a cube measuring three feet tall, wide, and deep. Suppliers use this standard measurement for selling bulk materials regardless of the actual weight.
For average, loosely packed topsoil, the typical weight range falls between 1,800 and 2,700 pounds per cubic yard. This range accounts for variations in a standard mix of loam and organic matter. A cubic yard of moist topsoil can weigh roughly 1.35 tons.
The common working estimate used by professionals is approximately 2,200 pounds per cubic yard, slightly more than one ton. However, the actual weight delivered can fluctuate significantly depending on excavation and storage conditions. These differences are caused primarily by changes in moisture content and composition.
Physical Properties That Change Soil Weight
Moisture content is a primary factor altering the weight of a cubic yard of soil. Water is heavy; one cubic foot weighs approximately 62.4 pounds. Since a cubic yard contains 27 cubic feet, fully saturated soil can hold hundreds of pounds of additional water weight.
A cubic yard of wet soil, especially after heavy rain, can easily weigh up to 3,000 pounds or more. This is a 30 to 40 percent increase over its dry weight and is noticeable in clay-heavy soils, which retain water. Conversely, very dry, loose soil sits at the lower end of the weight spectrum.
The specific composition of the soil also plays a significant role in its density and resulting weight. Sandy soil is heavier than organic-rich loamy soil because sand particles pack together more tightly, leaving less air space. A cubic yard of dry sand can weigh between 2,700 and 3,300 pounds, often exceeding the weight of standard topsoil.
Clay-rich soil is also dense and can reach close to 3,000 pounds per cubic yard when wet due to its water-holding capacity. The degree of compaction also affects the weight of the volume. Loosely loaded or “fluffed” soil, such as fresh topsoil, will be lighter than highly compacted soil, which can weigh up to 2,565 pounds per cubic yard.
Calculating Tonnage for Delivery and Projects
When ordering soil, remember that 2,000 pounds equals one ton. Since soil weight is highly variable, suppliers may sell material by the cubic yard or by the ton. Understanding this difference is important for budgeting and logistics, and helps ensure your vehicle or trailer can safely manage the load.
To prevent ordering too little material, always estimate on the higher end of the weight range, assuming the soil will be moist upon delivery. A conservative rule-of-thumb is to calculate the total tonnage assuming each cubic yard weighs 1.35 tons (2,700 pounds). This higher estimate accounts for moisture and denser compositions.
For example, if a project requires 10 cubic yards of soil, multiplying 10 cubic yards by 1.35 tons per yard results in a total weight estimate of 13.5 tons. Using this conservative figure ensures the necessary capacity is available for transport. This calculation converts the volume needed for a project into the required weight.