Guide / quantity planning
Cubic Yards to Truckloads
Understand how a project volume translates into estimated truckloads using an adjustable planning assumption.
Truckload planning starts with the volume basis and the assumed capacity. Use the table as a conversation starter, then confirm truck configuration, material, route, and site conditions for the actual scope.
| Project volume | Estimated loads |
|---|---|
| 10 CY | 1 loads |
| 25 CY | 2 loads |
| 50 CY | 4 loads |
| 100 CY | 8 loads |
| 250 CY | 20 loads |
| 500 CY | 39 loads |
| 1000 CY | 77 loads |
The 13 CY figure is an estimating example only. Adjust the assumption with the Truck Loads Calculator.
A planning table, not a payload promise
The examples below use 13 cubic yards per assumed load. That figure is an estimating assumption only; trucks do not all carry the same legal or practical payload.
How to use the estimate
Divide the project’s cubic yards by the assumed yards per load and round up. The final load may be partial, and actual trips can change with moisture, density, swell, access, loading, and receiving conditions.
Questions contractors ask
How many loads is 100 cubic yards?
At a 13 CY planning assumption, 100 cubic yards rounds up to 8 estimated loads. Actual truck count and payload require project review.
Can I use this for compacted fill?
Use the volume basis carefully. Compacted, bank, and loose volumes can differ, so identify the basis before treating the result as a hauling plan.
From planning to scope
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