How Much Soil for a 4x4 Raised Bed?

Soil volume and bag count for a 4×4 raised bed, with a worked example using the same calculator math.

Quick answer

Soil(ft³) = 4×4×(depth_in/12). At 12" depth: soil = 16 ft³ = 0.593 yd³. Bags(2 ft³) = ceil(16/2)=8.

Worked example

Depth 12": depth_ft=1. Soil_ft³=4×4×1=16. Soil_yd³=16/27=0.5926…. Bags: 1.5 ft³ → ceil(16/1.5)=11; 2 ft³ → 8; 3 ft³ → 6.

If you mix bagged soil with compost, or if the bed is not filled to the brim, your actual bag count can be lower.

Use the calculator Opens prefilled state.

How many 2 cu ft bags for a 4x4 raised bed?

At 12" depth: 16 ft³ total → 8 bags (ceil).

How many 3 cu ft bags?

16/3=5.33 → 6 bags (ceil).

How do I adjust for different depths?

Use depth_ft = depth_in/12 and multiply: 4×4×depth_ft.

Should I buy extra soil for settling?

Yes. Bagged and bulk mixes can settle 10–15% after watering and a few weeks. Slightly overfilling is normal.

Estimates only. If you need accuracy, validate depth, compaction, and spacing with your local guidance.