How is cut and fill volume calculated?

Cut and fill volume is typically calculated by determining the area of the site and the average depth of excavation (cut) or embankment (fill). The basic formula is Volume = Length × Width × Depth. For more complex terrains, grid or cross-section methods are used, often with specialized software.

What is the difference between cut and fill?

Cut refers to the material (soil, rock) that needs to be removed from an area to achieve the desired grade or elevation. Fill refers to the material that needs to be brought in to raise an area to the desired grade or elevation.

Why are shrinkage and swell factors important?

Shrinkage and swell factors account for changes in soil volume when it's excavated and then compacted (fill) or loosened (cut). Cut soil often swells, meaning it occupies more volume than in its natural state. Fill soil, when compacted, shrinks, meaning a larger volume of loose material is needed to achieve a smaller compacted volume.

Earthwork Cut and Fill Volume Estimator

Cut Volume Inputs

Project Length (Cut): m

Project Width (Cut): m

Average Cut Depth: m

Swell Factor (%):

Fill Volume Inputs

Project Length (Fill): m

Project Width (Fill): m

Average Fill Depth: m

Shrinkage Factor (%):

Earthwork Cut and Fill Volume Estimator

Cut Volume Inputs

Fill Volume Inputs

Calculation Results