Calculator Use
This excavation costs calculator is designed to provide quick and accurate estimates for earthmoving projects. Whether you are digging a foundation for a new home, clearing space for a swimming pool, or trenching for utilities, knowing the volume of material to be moved is the first step in budgeting. This tool calculates the total volume in cubic yards or meters and applies your specific labor and equipment rates to generate a final cost estimate.
Simply input your project dimensions and local rates to see an instant breakdown of costs including overhead and markup considerations.
- Length, Width, and Depth
- The physical dimensions of the area to be excavated. In the US, these are typically measured in feet.
- Cost per Unit
- The local market rate for excavation. This usually includes machine rental, operator labor, and fuel. Average rates range from $30 to $150 per cubic yard depending on soil type.
- Markup/Misc
- A percentage added to cover unexpected obstacles (like boulders), administrative costs, and contractor profit.
How It Works
To calculate excavation costs, we first find the cubic volume of the hole and then convert it to the industry-standard unit (cubic yards). One cubic yard is equal to 27 cubic feet (3′ x 3′ x 3′).
Total Cost = [(Length × Width × Depth) / 27] × Rate × (1 + Markup %)
- Step 1: Calculate cubic feet (L × W × D).
- Step 2: Convert to cubic yards by dividing by 27.
- Step 3: Multiply by the per-yard cost.
- Step 4: Apply the markup percentage for the final total.
Calculation Example
Example: Excavating a basement for a 30ft by 40ft house at a depth of 8 feet.
Step-by-step solution:
- Length = 40 ft, Width = 30 ft, Depth = 8 ft
- Total Cubic Feet = 40 × 30 × 8 = 9,600 cu. ft.
- Convert to Cubic Yards = 9,600 / 27 = 355.56 cu. yd.
- Assume Rate = $60 per cubic yard
- Subtotal = 355.56 × 60 = $21,333.60
- Add 10% Markup = $21,333.60 × 1.10
- Final Total = $23,466.96
Common Questions
What factors increase the excavation costs calculator result?
Several variables can drive prices up beyond the standard volume calculation. These include hitting solid bedrock (which requires blasting or hydraulic hammers), high water tables requiring constant pumping, or difficult site access that necessitates smaller, less efficient equipment.
Is dirt disposal included in the cost?
Usually, the "rate per yard" includes digging and piling the dirt on-site. If you need the dirt hauled away, you must account for "swell factors." Dirt expands when excavated (often by 20-30%), meaning you will have more cubic yards to haul than you had in the ground.
How much does soil type matter?
Sand and loose loam are the cheapest to excavate. Heavy clay is more difficult and sticks to buckets, slowing the process. The presence of large boulders or "caliche" (hardened calcium carbonate layers) can double or triple the hourly equipment rate.