How Many Cubic Yards Can My Dump Truck Carry?

When you’re hauling heavy loads, knowing your dump truck’s capacity is critical. Even if you know the listed specs, material weight per cubic yard also affects how much you can carry. Here’s how to understand dump truck capacity so you can plan your hauls more effectively.

Learn How to Think in Cubic Yards

Capacity is measured in cubic yards. One cubic yard equals a block of space 3 feet long, wide, and tall. Different materials have different densities, so one cubic yard of mulch will weigh much less than one cubic yard of stone. Because of these differences, dump truck capacity depends on both volume and weight.

Check Your Dump Truck’s Capacity Limits

Start with your truck’s official specifications for volume and weight. Even if a model has the space to hold a certain number of cubic yards, weight limits may lower that number. Check your truck’s documents or look up your model online to confirm both figures.

Understand Material Weight Per Cubic Yard

When planning hauls, consider the average weight per cubic yard of each material. You’ll move more cubic yards of lighter materials like mulch than heavier ones like gravel. Suppliers often provide this information in product catalogs or over the phone.

Calculate the Number of Cubic Yards You Need

Use simple math to figure out how many cubic yards your project requires:

  • Measure the length and width of your space in feet.
  • Determine the depth in inches or feet.
  • Convert all feet to inches (1 foot = 12 inches).
  • Multiply length by width by depth.
  • Divide the total by 46,656 (the number of cubic inches in a cubic yard).

Rent a Dump Truck From The Cat® Rental Store

Need more hauling capacity? Renting a dump truck gives you flexibility without the long-term costs of ownership. At The Cat® Rental Store, our experts can guide you to the right model for your job. We also offer flexible rental terms and global dealer support to keep your project moving.

Browse our dump truck rentals, request a quick quote or find a dealer near you to get started.

FAQs About Dump Truck Capacity

  • How many cubic yards can a typical dump truck hold?

It depends on the model and the material. Standard trucks often carry 10-16 cubic yards, but weight limits apply.

  • Does material type affect capacity?

Yes. Lighter materials like mulch allow for more volume, while heavier materials like stone reduce the number of cubic yards you can haul.

  • Why rent a dump truck instead of buying?

Renting avoids maintenance, storage, and depreciation costs while giving you access to the latest equipment for short- or long-term projects.

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