Why Calculate Truck Capacity?
Whether you're a construction professional, landscaper, or homeowner ordering materials, knowing your truck's exact capacity is crucial. Under-ordering means multiple trips and wasted time. Over-ordering wastes money and storage space.
Our Truck Calculator helps you measure exactly how many cubic feet (CFT) your dump truck can carry.
How the Calculator Works
The formula is simple: Volume (CFT) = Length × Width × Height
- Measure Your Truck Bed: Use a measuring tape to find the inner dimensions
- Enter Dimensions: Input length, width, and height in feet and inches
- Get Results: The calculator instantly shows total volume in cubic feet
Understanding CFT (Cubic Feet)
Cubic feet is the standard unit for measuring truck capacity. One cubic foot is:
- A cube that is 1 foot × 1 foot × 1 foot
- Approximately 28.3 liters
- About 7.5 gallons
Typical Truck Capacities
| Truck Type | Approx. CFT | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Small Pickup | 40-60 CFT | Small home projects |
| Full-size Pickup | 60-100 CFT | Medium landscaping |
| Dump Truck (small) | 200-400 CFT | Construction sites |
| Dump Truck (large) | 400-800+ CFT | Major earth moving |
Tips for Accurate Measurements
- Measure the inner dimensions of the cargo bed, not the outer
- Account for wheel wells and other obstructions that reduce space
- When loading, material usually piles above the bed edges — our calculator gives the flat-bed volume
- For loose materials like sand/soil, add 10-15% for settling
Material Weight Reference
While our calculator measures volume, knowing weight helps too:
- Dry sand: ~100 lbs per cubic foot
- Gravel: ~110-120 lbs per cubic foot
- Topsoil: ~80-90 lbs per cubic foot