Sand Calculator: Cubic Yards, Volume & Cost

Calculate how much sand you need for a rectangular area at a uniform depth. Enter length, width, and depth to estimate cubic yards, cubic feet, and cubic meters. Add a supplier's price per volume unit for an optional material cost estimate.

Calculate sand volume

Use the dimensions of the actual space being filled. The depth is your input, not a construction recommendation. This version estimates volume, not weight or mix proportions.

This calculator needs JavaScript. If this message stays visible, the calculator has not loaded.

Your entries are calculated in this browser. This tool does not save or send them. Google Blogger may separately provide its own platform services and cookies.

How to calculate yards of sand

Cubic yards = length (feet) x width (feet) x depth (inches) / 324

A rectangular space 12 feet long and 9 feet wide at 3 inches depth has a volume of 12 x 9 x 3 / 324 = 1 cubic yard, or 27 cubic feet. This is a calculation example, not a recommended depth for paving or any other installation.

For measurement steps and coverage examples, read our guide to calculating how much sand you need.

Metric sand volume

Cubic meters = length (m) x width (m) x depth (cm) / 100

A 5-meter by 2-meter space with a 10-centimeter layer needs 1 cubic meter geometrically. One cubic meter is approximately 1.308 cubic yards.

Sand coverage depends on depth

One cubic yard is 27 cubic feet. Before allowances, it covers 162 square feet at 2 inches depth, 108 square feet at 3 inches, or 81 square feet at 4 inches. These coverage figures describe geometry, not installation specifications.

Sand volume is not sand weight

There is no single reliable weight for every cubic yard of sand. Bulk density varies with the product, moisture, packing, and condition. Ask the supplier for the conversion for the specific material, and confirm whether the weight unit is a US short ton or a metric tonne.

A bag labeled by weight cannot be treated as a fixed volume without product information. This calculator does not assume that every sand bag has the same size.

Frequently asked questions

Can I use this for a rectangular sandbox?

The formula estimates the geometric fill volume of a rectangle. Measure inside dimensions and the intended fill depth, allowing for objects or existing material when defining the space to fill. The tool does not decide product suitability, play safety, or maintenance requirements.

Can I estimate sand for pavers?

It estimates volume if you supply the appropriate area and layer depth. It does not specify bedding thickness, compaction, drainage, or material type. Follow the product and project requirements. For a separate cost budget, use our Driveway Pavers Cost Calculator.

Does it calculate mortar or concrete mix proportions?

No. A geometric sand volume is not a concrete or mortar recipe. Mix design requires the specified materials and proportions for the intended use.

Is extra sand included?

No automatic percentage is added. Ask the supplier or installer about the relationship between loose delivered volume and the finished layer, and any allowance needed for losses or uneven ground.

What if my area is irregular?

Where suitable, divide it into non-overlapping rectangles, calculate each volume, and add the totals. Curved spaces, slopes, and changing depths need additional measurements or a different geometric model.

How do I enter a price?

Match the supplier's volume unit to the selected price unit. For 2 cubic yards at an illustrative $50 per cubic yard, material cost is $100. This is not a current market quote and does not include delivery or other fees.

What happens when I change units?

Dimensions clear so feet are not reused as meters. The optional price retains its explicitly selected volume unit. Enter your dimensions again in the new system.

What inputs are supported?

Positive length and width up to 10,000 and depth up to 1,000 in displayed units. Optional price can be $0 to $1,000,000 per selected volume unit. Up to four decimals are accepted, using a decimal point or comma without thousands separators.

Related calculators

For area only, use the Square Footage Calculator. For a different loose material, see the Gravel Calculator.

HandyMetric provides general estimation tools, not construction specifications, mix design, or installation services. Verify material suitability and purchasing quantities before ordering.