Convert Cubic Feet to Cubic Yards

Category: Various Measurements/Units
- May 14, 2025
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Convert between cubic feet (ftÂł) and cubic yards (ydÂł) with this simple calculator. Enter a value in either field to see the conversion result.

Volume Conversion

ftÂł
ydÂł

Display Options

Conversion Results

Conversion Formula
1 cubic yard = 27 cubic feet
Common Conversions
1 ydÂł = 27 ftÂł
2 ydÂł = 54 ftÂł
5 ydÂł = 135 ftÂł
10 ydÂł = 270 ftÂł
Related Units

Calculation Steps

1. Starting with 27 cubic feet

2. Divide by 27 to convert to cubic yards (27 Ă· 27 = 1)

3. Result: 27 cubic feet = 1 cubic yard

About Cubic Feet and Cubic Yards

Cubic feet (ftÂł) and cubic yards (ydÂł) are units of volume in the imperial and US customary measurement systems. These units are commonly used in construction, landscaping, and shipping to measure large volumes of materials.

Conversion Formula
  • 1 cubic yard = 27 cubic feet
  • 1 cubic foot = 0.037037 cubic yards

The conversion factor comes from the fact that 1 yard = 3 feet, and when cubed: 3³ = 3 × 3 × 3 = 27

Common Uses

These volume units are commonly used for:

  • Concrete, gravel, sand, and soil in construction and landscaping
  • Mulch and compost for gardening
  • Waste management and dumpster sizing
  • Swimming pool volumes
  • Shipping container and freight volumes
Visualizing the Difference

To visualize the difference between cubic feet and cubic yards:

  • A cubic foot is about the size of a basketball or a small microwave
  • A cubic yard is about the size of a standard washing machine
  • A standard pickup truck bed can hold approximately 2-3 cubic yards of material

What Is a Cubic Feet to Cubic Yards Conversion?

This conversion tool helps you convert volume measurements between cubic feet (ftÂł) and cubic yards (ydÂł). These units are commonly used in construction, landscaping, and shipping to measure bulk materials like concrete, soil, gravel, and mulch.

Knowing how to convert between these two units is important when estimating how much material you need for a project or when comparing prices between vendors. This unit conversion tool makes the process simple and fast.

Conversion Formula:
1 cubic yard = 27 cubic feet
1 cubic foot = 0.037037 cubic yards

How to Use the Calculator

Follow these quick steps to use the calculator effectively:

  • Enter a value in either the Cubic Feet or Cubic Yards input field.
  • Click the Convert button to perform the calculation.
  • Use the Reset button to restore default values.
  • Click Swap Values to reverse the direction of conversion.

Additional display options let you:

  • Select how many decimal places to show in the result.
  • Display results as fractions for easier measurement estimation.
  • See the volume represented as cube dimensions.

Why This Conversion Matters

This tool is especially useful for professionals and DIYers who regularly work with volume estimates. It takes the guesswork out of material planning and ensures you get accurate volume conversions every time.

Use this Conversion Calculator to:

  • Convert feet to yards volume during material takeoffs.
  • Quickly calculate how many cubic feet of soil you’ll need from cubic yard measurements.
  • Double-check supplier estimates in different units.

Real-World Examples

  • 1 cubic yard of mulch will fill approximately 27 cubic feet of space.
  • A pickup truck bed can typically hold 2–3 cubic yards of material, or 54–81 cubic feet.
  • Filling a 9 ftÂł wheelbarrow three times gives you roughly 1 cubic yard of volume.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the difference between cubic feet and cubic yards?

A cubic foot (ft³) is a volume that measures 1 ft × 1 ft × 1 ft. A cubic yard (yd³) is larger and measures 3 ft × 3 ft × 3 ft, which equals 27 cubic feet.

When should I use cubic yards instead of cubic feet?

Use cubic yards when dealing with large volumes such as soil, concrete, or bulk materials. Cubic feet are more practical for smaller-scale measurements like appliance dimensions or small garden beds.

Can I see the result as a fraction?

Yes. Select the checkbox labeled “Show results as fractions when appropriate” to view your results in fractional form, which is common in construction and landscaping.

What happens when I select “Show Dimensions”?

The calculator will display the cube dimensions (length of each side) that represent the entered volume, helping you better visualize the space or material.

Is this the same as converting gallons or liters?

No. This calculator is for converting between cubic feet and cubic yards, which are volume units used mostly in the US. For converting gallons or liters, use a liters to gallons or gallons to liters calculator instead.

Helpful Conversion Tools Related to This Calculator

Summary

Whether you’re ordering materials, estimating loads, or checking your delivery, this volume conversion calculator makes it quick and easy to convert measurements between cubic feet and cubic yards. It’s a valuable conversion helper for both professionals and homeowners working with volume-based materials.