Trench Spoils Calculator
Estimate loose cubic yards and truck counts from bank excavation. Swell accounts for the volume increase when soil is dug and loaded.
Enter your values, then press Calculate.
How to calculate
Enter bank cubic yards from the trench excavation calculator, or any known bank volume. Choose a swell factor for the material and the truck capacity you are using.
Formula
Loose CY = bank CY × (1 + swell). Truckloads = ceil(loose CY ÷ truck capacity). Pipe displacement can be subtracted when the pipe stays in the trench.
Common use cases
- Haul-off estimates
- Comparing 10 CY vs 16 CY trucks
- Checking if spoils stay on site
- Utility trench waste haul
Worked example
Example: 30 bank CY at 25% swell in 12 CY trucks
1. Loose volume after swell
30 yd³ × (1 + 25%) = 37.5 yd³
2. Truckloads
ceil(37.5 ÷ 12) = 4 loads
Related calculators
- Trench Excavation CalculatorConvert trench length, width, and depth into cubic yards of excavation.
- Truckload EstimatorConvert cubic yards into truckloads using a real truck capacity.
- Shrink/Swell CalculatorConvert bank cubic yards to loose and compacted yards.
- Bedding CalculatorEstimate pipe bedding cubic yards from length, width, and depth.
FAQ
What swell factor should I use?
Sand and gravel are often 10–15%, clay 20–30%, and blasted rock 30–50%. Confirm with the geotech report or past loads from the same cut.
Are truckloads heaped or struck?
Enter the capacity you actually get, usually less than the nameplate if the material is wet or the tailgate leaks.
Disclaimer
These calculators are estimating tools for planning and field checks. They are not a substitute for approved plans, specifications, licensed professional engineering, or governing standards. Confirm densities, waste factors, and yields with your supplier and project documents.