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Your calculation audit
Every total is shown as a short sequence so you can see what was measured, deducted, adjusted and rounded.
- 01Awaiting valid measurementsComplete the fields above to reveal the formula path.
Garden Materials & Beds
Raised-bed soil calculator
Estimate soil volume and bags for a simple rectangular raised bed.
Transparent formulaFormula v1.0 · bed length × width × fill depth
Scope boundary: A planting-material estimate only; it does not assess containment, drainage, soil health or structure.
Measure clearly
Simple guidance
Measure the internal bed length, internal width and realistic fill depth. If the bed has a drainage layer, do not include that layer in soil depth.
Worked example
Follow the same logic
A 2.4 m × 1.2 m bed filled to 300 mm needs 0.864 m³ of soil mix before bag or bulk-bag rounding.
Planning tipWrite down the product factor or pack size you used, so a later change is easy to trace.
Before you buy
Three quick checks
- 01
Measure the usable internal bed dimensions.
- 02
Exclude drainage layers from the soil fill depth.
- 03
Match the calculation to the bag or bulk-bag size you can buy.
Quick answers
Useful to know
Do I include a drainage layer?
No. Enter only the depth you intend to fill with soil or compost. Calculate a separate material volume for a drainage layer if needed.
Can I use this for a planter?
Yes, for a simple rectangular planter or bed. Check unusual shapes, liners and fill layers separately.
Review record
Transparent, source-ready method
Last reviewed: 15 October 2026. Formula version: v1.0. Source/review data to be added — Calculator.Shop does not present placeholder figures as an authoritative trade specification.