Dirt is a commonly found substance with many commercial and domestic uses. This article will discuss how much a dump truckload of dirt weighs and how much it costs to have dirt hauled away.
Contents
How Much Is Dirt in a Dump Truck Load?
Dump trucks can typically carry 10 to 14 cubic yards of dirt. One cubic yard is equivalent to 27 cubic feet, roughly the size of a 3-foot-long, 3-foot-high, and 3-foot-wide block of material. To determine how much dirt a dump truckload contains, the volume of the truck itself needs to be known. An average dump truck is 16 feet long, 7 feet wide, and 3.5 feet tall, totaling 448 cubic feet. Therefore, a full load of dirt would be around 10 to 14 cubic yards or 270 to 378 cubic feet.
How Much Is a Load of Topsoil?
For landscaping projects, knowing the amount of topsoil needed is crucial. Typically, one dump truck can hold 10 to 13 cubic yards of topsoil, depending on the truck’s size and the topsoil’s density. HomeAdvisor says a truckload of fill dirt, including its delivery cost, is typically between $150 and $450. However, the price of the dirt may vary depending on its type. For instance, topsoil rich in organic matter can cost more than sand or gravel. Knowing the required amount of dirt before ordering to budget accordingly is essential.
What Is Considered a Load of Dirt?
Dirt is a specific type of soil consisting of small rocks and organic matter. It is rich in nutrients, making it ideal for growing plants. The amount of dirt that can be hauled in a truck depends on the vehicle. A commercial dump truck can carry 10 to 14 cubic yards of dirt. However, the cost of dirt varies depending on the type. For example, topsoil is typically more expensive than fill dirt due to its nutrient-rich properties. Therefore, knowing the kind of dirt required and its cost is crucial before ordering.
How Much Dirt Fits in a Truck Bed?
The bed of an average full-size pickup truck is 8 feet long, 5.33 feet wide, and 1.5 feet high. When filled, the truck bed can hold 2.5 cubic yards of material, equivalent to 20,833 pounds of dirt or roughly 10 tons.
What’s the Difference Between Fill Dirt and Topsoil?
While both fill dirt and topsoil are used in gardening and landscaping, they differ significantly. Fill dirt consists of Bernardino clay, sand, silt, and rocks and has no organic matter or nutrients. In contrast, topsoil contains all the nutrients and minerals required for plant growth. It has a higher percentage of organic matter than fill dirt. Additionally, topsoil is easier to work with as it is looser and crumbly. Thus, topsoil is more suitable for gardening and landscaping purposes.
What Kind of Dirt Should I Use To Fill Holes in the Yard?
A mix of planting soil, sand, and compost is recommended to fill holes in a yard effectively instead of regular topsoil. An equal proportion of each material will create a mix that allows grass to root efficiently, making the lawn strong and healthy in the long run.
Conclusion
Trucks are a reliable option for transporting dirt for various purposes. The cost of transportation can vary from $150 to $450, depending on the type of truck and the amount of dirt needed. A commercial dump truck, on average, can carry between ten to fourteen cubic yards of dirt. Fill dirt typically comprises Bernardino clay, sand, silt, and rocks. At the same time, topsoil is a nutrient-rich soil that fosters plant growth. Therefore, when planning a landscaping project, it’s essential to identify the type and amount of dirt needed to ensure project success. With a truck, you can transport and fill dirt with ease!
