Homeowners typically pay a few hundred to several thousand dollars for a load of fill dirt, depending on soil type, quantity, and delivery. The main cost drivers are material type, delivery distance, and whether the dirt needs to be leveled or compacted on site. Understanding the price range helps buyers budget and compare local quotes.
| Item | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fill Dirt (per yard) | $15 | $28 | $40 | Commonly borrow or fill dirt; clean soil vs. sandier mixes varies price. |
| Delivery (per load, 10–12 yards) | $120 | $240 | $600 | Distance and access affect fuel and time. |
| On-site Preparation | $50 | $150 | $350 | Grading, leveling, or brief compaction included in labor. |
| Container/Disposal Fees | $0 | $60 | $300 | Some jobs require haul-away or disposal at a transfer site. |
| Permits/Fees | $0 | $25 | $150 | Typically minimal unless large site work triggers rules. |
| Taxes & Contingency | $0 | $50 | $150 | Tax on services or materials may apply; contingency for weather. |
Overview Of Costs
Assumptions: region, dirt type, delivery distance, and site access vary; prices shown assume a typical residential fill dirt order with standard delivery within 20 miles. The total project range often spans $1,200 to $5,000 for a full backyard fill, including delivery and basic site prep. For per-unit estimates, dirt typically runs $15–$40 per cubic yard, with delivery adding $120–$600 per load depending on distance and loader access. data-formula=”total_cost = (yards × price_per_yard) + delivery + prep”>
Cost Breakdown
Materials, Labor, Delivery, and Miscellaneous Costs are broken down to illuminate where money goes. The table below shows a sample mix with total and per-unit figures.
| Category | Low | Average | High | Details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Materials | $1,350 | $2,600 | $4,000 | Assumes 12 yards of fill dirt with standard composition. |
| Labor | $200 | $700 | $1,400 | Loader time, placement, and compaction as needed. |
| Delivery/Transport | $120 | $240 | $600 | Distance-based; additional trips increase cost. |
| Permits | $0 | $25 | $150 | Often minimal for small residential jobs. |
| Disposal/Haul-away | $0 | $60 | $300 | Depends on site cleanup and material reuse options. |
| Taxes & Contingency | $0 | $50 | $150 | Buffer for weather or price changes. |
What Drives Price
Local soil type, delivery distance, and site access are primary drivers. Dirt type affects density and moisture; clay-rich fill is heavier and may cost more to move and compact. Additionally, rural areas may incur longer trips, while urban zones face tighter access and higher delivery fees. Assumptions: standard residential fill dirt, single delivery, no compaction upgrades. A nearby supplier often yields a 5–15% discount compared to long-haul deliveries.
Factors That Affect Price
Regional price differences can shift costs by a noticeable margin. The same order shipped to a suburban yard from a regional hub may cost more or less based on fuel surcharges and load frequency. Weather can also influence availability and timing, with off-season deliveries sometimes offering price relief. Labor availability and fleet capacity impact delivery quotes.
Ways To Save
Shop quotes, compare material options, and optimize delivery timing. Options include using recycled or locally sourced fill, coordinating multiple orders to reduce trips, and choosing less moisture-sensitive material when feasible. Scheduling deliveries during off-peak times can also limit surcharges. Assumptions: price-sensitive consumer seeking mid-range value.
Regional Price Differences
Prices vary by region due to transportation costs and market demand. Three example regions illustrate typical delta ranges: Northeast, Midwest, and South. In urban corridors, delivery fees and access charges often rise, while rural areas may offer steep discounts due to lower demand but longer travel distances. Expect roughly +/- 10–25% variation between regions for similar yardage orders. Assumptions: standard backhaul, no premium soil additives.
Real-World Pricing Examples
Three scenario cards demonstrate common project sizes.
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Basic — 6 yards of standard fill, 10 miles delivery, minimal site prep. Materials $90–$180/yard? note: costs listed below are for total ranges; this scenario uses $15–$28/yard, delivery at $120, simple leveling. Total: $1,260–$2,000.
Assumptions: 6 yards, standard dirt, basic leveling. -
Mid-Range — 12 yards, mid-quality fill, delivery 20 miles, light compaction. Total range: $1,800–$3,200.
Assumptions: regional delivery, minor shaping. -
Premium — 20 yards, select fill with clay content stabilization, delivery 40 miles, active on-site grading and compaction. Total range: $4,000–$6,500.
Assumptions: extended haul, heavier compaction, and disposal considerations.
Assumptions: region, specs, labor hours. The numbers above mix totals with per-yard estimates and per-load delivery figures to reflect common pricing practices in the United States.