What is a typical packing density for corn silage?

Well-packed corn silage in a bunker typically reaches 14–18 lb/ft³ (as-fed). Under-packed silage below 14 lb/ft³ increases spoilage risk. Target 15–17 lb/ft³ for optimal fermentation and storage.

What dry matter percentage should I enter?

Corn silage is usually ensiled at 30–38% dry matter (62–70% moisture). Haylage ranges from 35–60% DM. If unsure, use a forage moisture tester or send a sample to a lab.

How is drive-over pile volume calculated?

A drive-over pile is approximated as a half-cylinder (half the volume of a full cylinder). Volume = 0.5 × π × (width/2)² × length. For a peaked pile with sloped sides the actual volume will be slightly less.

Why does my bunker tonnage differ from what I expected?

Common causes are over-estimating packing density, not accounting for tapered walls, or using total wall height instead of average silage height. Measure the average silage face height for the most accurate result.

Can I use this for haylage or small grain silage?

Yes. Adjust packing density (haylage bunkers average 10–14 lb/ft³) and dry matter % to match your crop. The volume math is the same regardless of crop type.

Silage Tonnage Calculator

Name: Silage Tonnage Calculator
Availability: InStock
Author: Nham Vu

Enter silo dimensions and packing density to calculate total wet and dry matter tons of stored silage.

Silage Storage Details

Silo Type

Length (ft)

Width (ft)

Height (ft)

Packing Density (as-fed lb/ft³)

Corn silage: 14–18 · Haylage: 10–14

Dry Matter (%)

Corn: 30–38 · Haylage: 35–60

Results

Enter dimensions and click Calculate.

Summary

Enter silo dimensions and packing density to calculate total wet and dry matter tons of stored silage.

How it works

Select the silo type: bunker/trench, drive-over pile, or bag silo.
Enter the structure dimensions (length, width, height or diameter).
Set the as-fed packing density (lb/ft³) — typical range is 14–18 lb/ft³ for corn silage.
Enter the dry matter percentage of the silage (0–100%).
The calculator computes volume, total wet tons, and dry matter tons.

Use cases

Estimate feed inventory before winter to ensure adequate supply for the herd.
Verify that packing density meets recommendations during silage harvest.
Calculate dry matter tons for ration balancing and feed budgeting.
Compare storage capacity of bunkers vs. bag silos for a new facility.
Audit silage remaining at feed-out to track shrink losses.
Plan silage purchases or sales based on available storage tonnage.

Frequently Asked Questions

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