Excavation Volume Calculator

This excavation calculator helps you determine the volume of earth to be removed and the amount of material to haul away, accounting for soil expansion (swell) when excavated.

Excavation Types

• Rectangular: Standard pit or foundation excavation with vertical walls
• Trench: Linear excavation for utilities, pipes, cables, or strip footings
• Slope-sided: Excavation with sloped walls for safety and stability (required for deep excavations)

How to Use

1. Select excavation type: Choose rectangular, trench, or slope-sided based on your project requirements
2. Enter dimensions: Measure length, width, and depth in millimeters. For slope-sided excavations, enter bottom dimensions and slope ratio
3. Choose soil type: Select from loose soil, compact soil, clay, rock, topsoil, or enter a custom swell factor. Different soils expand by different amounts when excavated
4. Review results: Get in-place volume (bank measure) and loose volume (for hauling). Pay attention to safety warnings for deep or large excavations
5. Share calculation: Copy the URL to save or share your excavation estimate with contractors or team members

Understanding the Results

In-Place Volume: The volume of the excavation in its natural state (bank measure). This is the volume of the hole you're creating.

Loose Volume: The volume after excavation, accounting for soil swell. This is what you need to haul away. Always larger than in-place volume due to air gaps and loosening.

Swell Factor: Percentage increase in volume. For example, 25% swell means 10 m³ in-place becomes 12.5 m³ loose. Use loose volume for truck capacity and disposal planning.

Safety Considerations

Excavations deeper than 1.5m require protective systems: sloping, benching, or shoring. OSHA and local codes specify minimum slope ratios based on soil type. Trenches narrower than 450mm typically require trench boxes. Always consult safety regulations and consider hiring a competent person to inspect excavations before workers enter.