Earthwork Cut and Fill Volume Calculation: Methods & Solved Example (2026 Guide)
Learn how to calculate earthwork cut and fill volume using the Average End Area and Prismoidal (Simpson's) methods. Includes formulas, a step-by-step solved example, and pro tips for site engineers. Every road, dam, canal, and building site begins with the same question: how much soil do we need to dig out, and how much do we need to fill in? That's earthwork — and getting the numbers right matters. Earthwork is often one of the first major costs on a project, and a wrong estimate can blow your budget, delay machinery, or leave you paying to haul away soil you could have reused. This guide explains what cut and fill means, the two main methods to calculate earthwork volume, a fully solved example, and practical tips every site engineer should know. What Is Cut and Fill in Earthwork? When we build a road or level a plot, the natural ground is rarely at the exact height we need. So we compare the Natural Ground Level (NGL) with the Formation Level (FL) — the finished ...