Fill-dirt in Decatur, TN

Delivered cost varies by supplier, distance, and load size, but a single tri-axle dump load (roughly 10–12 cubic yards) of fill dirt in West Tennessee commonly ranges from about $300 to $800. Hello Gravel prices are regionally sourced and will show exact delivered costs when you enter your Decatur zip code; minimum orders usually start at 3 tons and standard delivery is 2+ business days.

A typical tri-axle dump truck carries about 10–12 cubic yards of loose fill dirt, which generally weighs about 1.1–1.3 tons per cubic yard (so a full load is roughly 11–16 tons). That works out to an approximate delivered cost range per cubic yard of $25–$70 and per ton of $20–$60 in the Decatur area, depending on supplier, distance, and site access.

For light backyard leveling and top dressing, 2–4 inches of fill dirt is common; for a driveway base you should plan for 4–8 inches of compacted structural fill or, better, a layer of compactable fill dirt followed by 4–6 inches of gravel for drainage and load-bearing. Driveways and any area supporting vehicles need compaction in lifts and probably a granular base instead of loose topsoil.

You can add fill dirt directly over existing soil for small, non-structural fixes, but for lasting results you should remove organic topsoil, grade the area, and compact the fill in lifts (generally 4–8 inch lifts) with proper equipment. Hello Gravel drivers may offer tailgate spreading at their discretion, but mechanical compaction and site prep are best handled by you or a contractor.

Use the rule: cubic yards = area (sq ft) * depth (in) / 324. For 1,000 sq ft that equals about 6.2 yd3 at 2u0022, 12.3 yd3 at 4u0022, and 18.5 yd3 at 6u0022. At a delivered cost range of $25–$70 per cubic yard in the Decatur area, expect an approximate material cost of $155–$435 for 2u0022, $308–$860 for 4u0022, and $462–$1,295 for 6u0022, plus any compaction or contractor fees and a 5–10% allowance for settlement.

Fill dirt (plain soil) is typically cheaper per cubic yard than crushed stone or gravel, but gravel performs better for driveway bases because it drains and compacts to support loads. For driveways you may save money long-term by using fill dirt only where grading is needed and topping the base with compactable gravel; compare delivered cost per cubic yard and consider compaction and longevity when choosing.

For most Decatur homeowners, ordering bulk delivery through an online marketplace like Hello Gravel is cost-effective because it connects you with local suppliers and competitive rates, with a minimum order typically 3 tons. Other options include hiring a local contractor to supply and place material (more convenient but costlier) or checking county public works for surplus soil, though municipal options are limited and variable.

Material needs for that area depend on depth, but for 1,000–1,200 sq ft at a 4u0022 compacted base you'll need roughly 12–15 cubic yards of fill. Using a delivered price range of $25–$70 per cubic yard, material delivery would be roughly $300–$1,050; add contractor grading and compaction costs (often $200–$800 depending on local labor and equipment). Exact pricing varies, so request a quote through Hello Gravel for site-specific pricing.

Small residential orders are usually allowed without special permits, but large-scale grading, filling near streams, changes to drainage, or projects in regulated floodplains may require permits from Decatur city or Meigs County. Before major fills, check with Decatur City Hall or Meigs County building/soil conservation offices to confirm permit and erosion-control requirements.

Hello Gravel partners with local suppliers and haulers that serve West Tennessee and will show available options for Decatur when you enter your zip code. Many local suppliers accept small loads (minimums often start around 3 tons) and some offer tri-axle delivery; if you need smaller quantities, ask about partial loads or a contractor who will split a larger delivery.