Truckload Estimator
Estimate how many truckloads you need from a quantity in cubic yards and the capacity of the truck you actually have on the job. Rounds up to whole loads for ordering.
Enter your values, then press Calculate.
How to calculate
Enter the haul quantity in cubic yards (loose yards for spoils, compacted for import). Choose the truck size you are using. The result is exact loads and a whole-truck count.
Formula
Loads (exact) = quantity (yd³) ÷ truck capacity (yd³). Loads to order = ceil(exact loads). Remaining capacity on the last truck = capacity − remainder.
Common use cases
- Spoils haul-off
- Import backfill or aggregate
- Checking a quote against truck tickets
- Comparing 10-yd vs 16-yd trucks
Worked example
Example: 32 yd³ in 10-yd trucks
1. Exact loads
32 ÷ 10 = 3.2 loads
2. Round up to whole trucks
ceil(3.2) = 4 loads
Related calculators
- Trench Spoils CalculatorConvert bank trench yards to loose spoils and truckloads using a swell factor.
- Backfill CalculatorEstimate trench backfill cubic yards after subtracting pipe displacement.
- Shrink/Swell CalculatorConvert bank cubic yards to loose and compacted yards.
- Base Rock Tonnage CalculatorEstimate crushed rock or aggregate base tons from area, thickness, and density.
FAQ
Bank yards or loose yards?
Trucks haul loose material. Convert bank yards with the shrink/swell calculator before counting loads, or use the trench spoils tool which already applies swell.
Why round up?
You cannot dispatch a fraction of a truck. The last load is a partial bed unless the quantity divides evenly.
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.