Trailer Cubic Yard Calculator
Calculate a level trailer volume and compare it with an entered material payload.
Free to use. Calculations run in your browser.
At a glance
Trailer Cubic Yard Calculator
Level rectangular trailer capacity in cubic yards equals inside bed length × inside width × usable fill height in feet ÷ 27. The allowable material load also depends on weight ratings.
Project planning
Measure the usable inside space
Measure inside the bed, allowing for wheel housings, obstructions, side wall shape, and a usable level fill height. Exterior sales dimensions may not describe the space available to material.
Level capacity (yd³) = inside length (ft) × inside width (ft) × fill height (ft) ÷ 27
A rectangular inside bed measuring 12 ft by 6 ft with a 2 ft level fill height contains 144 ft³, or about 5.333 yd³. This is geometric capacity, not a claim that the trailer can carry that quantity of every material.
Project planning
Volume capacity and payload are different limits
An available payload is a weight quantity. PJ Trailers describes payload in relation to the gross vehicle weight rating and trailer weight. Use the actual available rating after accounting for the trailer and any other load; also check the tow vehicle, hitch, axles, tires, and applicable limits.
If you enter material bulk density and available payload, the calculator compares full volume weight with that payload. It also shows the volume within the entered payload. This comparison does not certify a towing combination.
Volume within entered payload (yd³) = smaller of geometric capacity and payload (lb) ÷ density (lb/ft³) ÷ 27
For a purely illustrative density of 100 lb/ft³, the 144 ft³ example would weigh 14,400 lb. If only 8,000 lb were available for material, about 2.963 yd³ would fit within that entered weight limit. Use actual ratings and material data.
Project planning
Tapered beds, rounded ends, and heaped loads
The main model is a rectangular level load. Sloping walls, rounded ends, or obstructions can change usable capacity. Break a nonrectangular body into measured sections or use the manufacturer’s rated capacity and measurement method.
A heap above the sides is not a rectangular box. Its volume depends on the actual mound shape, and it may be restricted by load securement, containment, weight, or operating limits. This tool does not add an assumed heap.
Common questions
Trailer Cubic Yard questions, answered.
How many yards is my dump trailer?
Enter its inside bed dimensions and usable level fill height. Then compare the result with the material weight and available payload. A volume figure alone cannot establish the permitted load.
Can a trailer hold the same yards of mulch and gravel?
The geometric space is the same, but the material weights can differ. A dense material may reach the payload limit before the bed is full. Use relevant bulk density and actual ratings.
Do I enter GVWR as available payload?
No. GVWR includes the trailer’s own weight. Use the available material payload after the trailer and other carried weight are accounted for, and check the manufacturer’s rating guidance.
Can I enter dimensions in inches or meters?
Yes. Each dimension has its own unit selector. The measured capacity is reported in cubic yards, cubic feet, and cubic meters.
Check the basis