A “load” of topsoil typically refers to a full dump-truck delivery — usually 10-15 cubic yards at $200-600 depending on quality, region, and delivery distance. Smaller “loads” (a half-load or partial dump-truck delivery) run 5-7 cubic yards. The term “load” isn’t a standard measurement, so always confirm the exact cubic yardage when ordering. Below: load sizes, pricing, what’s included, and how to calculate what you actually need.
What does “a load of topsoil” actually mean?
“Load” is informal terminology that varies by supplier and truck size:
| Truck Type | Typical Load Size | Weight Capacity |
|---|---|---|
| Small dump truck | 5-7 cubic yards | 12,000-15,000 lbs |
| Standard dump truck | 10-12 cubic yards | 25,000-30,000 lbs |
| Tri-axle dump truck | 15-18 cubic yards | 40,000+ lbs |
| Pickup truck “load” | 0.5-1 cubic yard | 1,500-3,000 lbs |
| “Half load” | 3-6 cubic yards | ~15,000 lbs |
Always ask the supplier specifically: “How many cubic yards is in a load?” before agreeing to a price.
Cost of a load of topsoil
Full dump truck load (10-12 cubic yards)
- Standard screened topsoil: $200-480 ($20-40/yd × 10-12 yd)
- Premium blended topsoil: $400-840 ($35-70/yd × 10-12 yd)
- Delivery: Usually included in load pricing for full deliveries
- Total range: $200-840 delivered
Tri-axle load (15-18 cubic yards)
- Standard screened topsoil: $300-720
- Premium blended topsoil: $525-1,260
- Best per-yard pricing: This size usually gets the best discount
Half load (3-6 cubic yards)
- Standard topsoil: $60-240 material + $50-100 delivery = $110-340 total
- Premium blends: $105-420 material + delivery
- Note: Half loads have proportionally higher delivery costs
For detailed pricing breakdowns by region and quality, see our yard of topsoil pricing guide.
What’s typically included in a load?
Most “load” pricing includes:
- The topsoil material itself
- Loading at the supplier yard
- Delivery within 10-15 miles (often)
- Dumping at one location on your property
Usually NOT included:
- Distribution or spreading on your property
- Additional dump locations (separate piles)
- Long-distance delivery (beyond 15-20 miles)
- Difficult access situations (tight driveways, unpaved approaches)
- Specialized truck requirements
How many cubic yards do you actually need?
Before ordering “a load,” calculate what your project actually needs:
Formula: (Length × Width × Depth in feet) ÷ 27 = cubic yards
Quick reference:
| Project | Cubic Yards Needed | Load Size? |
|---|---|---|
| 4’×8′ raised bed, 12″ deep | 1.2 yd | Bag or half-load |
| 500 sq ft new lawn, 4″ deep | 6.2 yd | Half load |
| 1,000 sq ft topdress, ½” deep | 1.6 yd | Half load |
| 2,000 sq ft new lawn, 4″ deep | 24.7 yd | 2 full loads |
| Major grading: 5,000 sq ft, 6″ deep | 92.6 yd | ~9 full loads |
See our how much topsoil do I need guide for detailed calculations.
How to get the best price on a load
- Order full loads when possible — half loads have proportionally higher per-yard costs due to delivery fees
- Get 3+ quotes — load pricing varies 30-50% within the same region
- Order off-season — late fall through mid-winter saves 10-20% vs spring/summer
- Be flexible on delivery timing — same-week delivery beats next-day for pricing
- Combine with neighbors — split a load if you don’t need a full delivery
- Pick up yourself if you have access to a pickup or trailer — saves $50-150 in delivery
- Skip premium tiers if standard works — premium topsoil costs 50-100% more for marginal improvement on most projects
What’s the difference between a “load” and a “yard”?
- Cubic yard: Standard volume measurement = 27 cubic feet (3’×3’×3′)
- Load: Whatever a specific truck holds, varies by truck size
- Scoop (term used in some regions): Usually ½ to 1 cubic yard, equipment-loaded amount
Suppliers should price by cubic yard for clarity. “Load” is informal — get the exact yardage in writing before paying.
How much will a truckload weigh?
Important for planning where you’ll dump it:
- 10 cubic yards moist topsoil: ~24,000 lbs (12 tons)
- 15 cubic yards moist topsoil: ~36,000 lbs (18 tons)
- 20 cubic yards moist topsoil: ~48,000 lbs (24 tons)
Most residential driveways handle these weights fine for short-term dumping. Be cautious about asphalt damage from prolonged loaded-truck stops.
See our cubic yard topsoil weight guide for weight by moisture content.
Frequently asked questions
How much does a truckload of topsoil cost?
A standard 10-12 yard dump truck load runs $200-480 for screened topsoil delivered, or $400-840 for premium blends. Tri-axle loads (15-18 yards) cost $300-1,260 depending on quality.
How many cubic yards in a dump truck load?
Standard dump trucks: 10-12 cubic yards. Tri-axle trucks: 15-18 cubic yards. Small dump trucks: 5-7 cubic yards. Always confirm with the supplier.
Will a full load fit in my driveway?
A 10-yard load makes a roughly 10′ × 10′ × 4′ pile (rough cone shape). Needs an open area at least 12′ × 12′ for the truck plus pile space.
How long does it take to spread a load of topsoil?
10 cubic yards typically takes 4-8 hours to spread by hand with wheelbarrows. With a tractor or skid steer, 1-2 hours. Plan accordingly.
Can I store a load before using it?
Yes, but cover with a tarp to prevent rain saturating it (becomes heavier and harder to work with). Use within a few weeks for best results — topsoil quality degrades when piled for long periods.
Find topsoil load delivery near you
Topsoil.com lists over 10,000 verified topsoil suppliers across the US with delivery options. Browse by state to compare load pricing in your area.
Related guides: How Much Is a Yard of Topsoil, How Much Topsoil Do I Need, Where to Buy Topsoil in Bulk.
