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Excavation Cost Calculator

Estimate the cost of excavation work.

Mason ReidFounder and Lead Estimator at MeasureThen

Last updated 2026-08-21

What Is a Excavation Cost Calculator?

An excavation cost calculator estimates the price of digging work from the volume in cubic yards and a price per cubic yard. It is a quick budgeting tool for a new foundation, pool, or utility run. Rates vary by region, equipment, and haul distance, so it is a starting point rather than a firm quote.

How It Works

Cost = Volume (cu yd) × Price per cubic yard.

Example

22.2 cubic yards at $12/yd³ = $266.40.

How to Calculate

  1. Get the excavated volume in cubic yards. A 20 ft by 10 ft by 3 ft hole is 22.2 cubic yards.
  2. Enter the price per cubic yard from local excavators, often $10 to $30 depending on the region.
  3. Multiply the volume by the price. At $12 per cubic yard, 22.2 cubic yards comes to about $266.40.
  4. Ask about minimum call out fees, which make small jobs cost more per yard.
  5. Check whether haul away of the removed soil is included, because haul off is often billed separately.

Dump Truck Load Capacities

Truck TypeCapacity (cu yd)Payload (tons)
Small dump truck3 to 56 to 10
Standard dump truck7 to 1014 to 20
Large dump truck10 to 1420 to 28
Articulated hauler20 to 2540 to 50

Sources

Frequently Asked Questions

What does excavation cost per yard?

Rates vary widely by region, equipment, and haul distance — commonly $10–$30 per cubic yard.

Are there minimum charges?

Most excavators have a minimum call-out fee, so small jobs cost more per yard.

Does this include hauling?

Not necessarily — haul-off of removed soil is often billed separately.

or browse Excavation Calculators

More Excavation Calculators

Excavation CalculatorCalculate cubic yards of excavation, cost, and haul-away truck loads for any digging project. Adjust for soil type and swell factor.Trench CalculatorCalculate the volume of a trench excavation.Dirt CalculatorEstimate dirt volume and weight for excavation.Backfill CalculatorEstimate backfill material needed for an excavation.

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.