Concrete Bags Calculator

Convert concrete volume into the number of 40, 60, or 80 lb bags.

Mason ReidFounder and Lead Estimator at MeasureThen

Last updated 2026-08-21

What Is a Concrete Bags Calculator?

A concrete bags calculator converts a concrete volume into the exact number of 40, 60, or 80 lb bags you need to buy. You enter the volume you already know and pick a bag size, and it returns the bag count rounded up. It is the handiest tool when you are mixing by hand or with a small mixer instead of ordering ready-mix.

How It Works

Bags = (Cubic yards × 27) ÷ Bag yield. Yields: 40 lb = 0.30 ft³, 60 lb = 0.45 ft³, 80 lb = 0.60 ft³.

Example

For 1.5 cubic yards with 80 lb bags: (1.5 × 27) ÷ 0.6 = 67.5 → 68 bags.

How to Calculate

Enter the concrete volume in cubic yards you need, such as 1.5 cubic yards.
Choose your bag size, for example 80 lb.
The calculator uses the 80 lb bag yield of 0.60 cubic feet.
It computes (1.5 × 27) ÷ 0.6 = 67.5 bags.
Round up to 68 bags and plan your mixing trips, since 80 lb bags are heavy to haul and mix.

Bag Yield and Coverage by Size

Bag Size	Yield	Bags per Cubic Yard	Best For
40 lb	0.30 cu ft	90 bags	Small patch jobs
60 lb	0.45 cu ft	60 bags	Mid-size projects
80 lb	0.60 cu ft	45 bags	Largest value per bag
Ready-mix	27 cu ft per yard	1 yard	Over 1 yard volume

Sources

Frequently Asked Questions

Which bag size is most economical?

80 lb bags are usually the best value per cubic foot, but they are heavy to haul and mix by hand.

Can I mix bags by hand?

Yes, up to about 1 cubic yard. Beyond that, a rented mixer or ready-mix delivery saves time and effort.

Do bag yields include water?

Yes, the published yields assume the mix is made with the correct amount of water.

Mason ReidFounder and Lead Estimator at MeasureThen

Mason Reid founded MeasureThen after two decades of hands-on work in construction and estimating. Across residential and light commercial projects, he sized concrete pours, framed walls, hung drywall, and priced out roofing, fencing, and deck work — learning the exact math that every job depends on. At MeasureThen he writes the formulas, checks every calculator against real-world assumptions, and makes sure each one is simple enough for a homeowner to trust and a contractor to use. When he is not measuring twice, he is helping projects stay on budget.

Every MeasureThen calculator uses simple, transparent formulas and standard industry assumptions drawn from common construction practice. We show the math behind each result and include worked examples so you can follow along and double-check the numbers. Results are estimates: materials, labor, and pricing vary by region and market, so always confirm important figures with a licensed professional and your local building codes.