How do I measure the fill depth?

Fill depth is how deep you want the soil layer, not the full height of the bed frame. Many gardeners fill to 1–2 inches below the top of the frame to prevent spill. Measure from the bottom of the bed (or the top of any existing native soil) up to your desired fill line.

What density is used for soil weight?

The default density is 75 lb per cubic foot (roughly 1,200 kg/m³), typical for a standard raised-bed mix of topsoil, compost, and perlite. Dense garden soil runs closer to 90 lb/ft³; pure compost is closer to 55 lb/ft³. Adjust the density slider to match your mix.

How many bags do I need?

Divide the total cubic feet by the bag size. Common bags are 1 cu ft (small), 1.5 cu ft, and 2 cu ft. The results panel shows bag counts for all three sizes automatically.

Should I account for soil settling?

Yes. Loose soil can settle 10–20% over the first season as it compacts and organic matter breaks down. A 10% overage is a safe buffer — the tool includes a "Add 10% settling buffer" checkbox.

Can I calculate multiple beds at once?

Yes. Use the "Add another bed" button to stack additional beds with different dimensions. The totals panel sums all beds.

What is the difference between cubic feet and cubic yards?

One cubic yard equals 27 cubic feet. Bulk soil deliveries are usually quoted in cubic yards; bags at garden centers are usually labeled in cubic feet or liters.

Raised Bed Soil Calculator

Name: Raised Bed Soil Calculator
Availability: InStock
Author: Nham Vu

Enter your raised bed dimensions and fill depth to instantly calculate cubic feet, cubic yards, and estimated soil weight.

Bed Dimensions

Units:

Soil density 75 lb/ft³

Light compost Dense topsoil

Add 10% settling buffer

Enter your bed dimensions on the left to see results.

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Summary

Enter your raised bed dimensions and fill depth to instantly calculate cubic feet, cubic yards, and estimated soil weight.

How it works

Choose your preferred unit system: US customary (inches/feet) or metric (centimeters/meters).
Enter the inner length and width of your raised bed.
Enter the depth you want to fill with soil mix.
Optionally add multiple beds or adjust the soil density for your specific mix.
The calculator instantly shows volume in cubic feet, cubic yards, and liters.
Estimated dry weight in pounds and kilograms is shown to help you plan delivery or bag purchases.

Use cases

Plan soil purchases before building a new raised bed.
Compare how many bags of potting mix are needed for different bed sizes.
Estimate delivery weight when ordering bulk soil or compost.
Calculate soil for multiple beds at once using the multi-bed feature.
Convert between cubic feet and cubic yards for supplier quotes.
Determine how many 1 cu ft or 2 cu ft bags to buy at a garden center.

Frequently Asked Questions

Last updated: 2026-07-01 · Reviewed by Nham Vu