Construction
Excavation Volume Calculator
Calculate dug volume from length, width and depth, plus a loose-volume figure after digging.
The bank volume is the size of the hole, while the larger loose volume is the space the dug soil will take up once it is moved.
Formula
Bank volume = length multiplied by width multiplied by depth. Loose volume = bank volume multiplied by 1.25, a rough bulking factor for dug soil.
How it works
Multiply the hole's length, width and depth for the volume in the ground. Dug soil takes up more space once loosened, so the loose figure helps plan skips and haulage. Soil type changes bulking, so treat 1.25 as a rough factor.
Worked example
For example, a hole 5 m long, 4 m wide and 1.5 m deep gives a bank volume of 5 × 4 × 1.5 = 30.00 cubic m, and a loose volume of 30.00 × 1.25 = 37.50 cubic m.
FAQs
Why two volumes?
Bank volume is the hole size; loose volume is the larger pile of dug soil that must be moved.
Does soil type matter?
Yes. Clay, sand and rock bulk differently, so adjust the factor if your soil is unusual.
Are battered sides included?
No, this assumes vertical sides. Sloped or stepped sides need separate section calculations.
Rough estimate only — consult a licensed professional for structural work before building.
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