Fill-dirt in Rocky Top, TN

Delivered fill-dirt prices in West Tennessee typically run in the range of $10 to $25 per ton, depending on source, moisture content, and distance from the supplier. Rural delivery, small orders, or tight access can add fees, so expect the higher end when extra trucking time or offloading is required. Hello Gravel lists a 3-ton minimum and offers standard 2+ business day delivery with next-day options for an extra fee.

For a 20 ft x 24 ft area (480 sq ft), you will need about 6 cubic yards for a 4u0022 layer, 9 cubic yards for a 6u0022 layer, or 12 cubic yards for an 8u0022 layer. That translates roughly to 8 to 20 tons depending on depth and how wet/compacted the dirt is; a common driveway grade of 6u0022 of compacted fill-dirt is about 9 yd3 or roughly 11 to 14 tons. Use these as estimates and order a little extra (5%-10%) for settling and compaction.

For grading and raising lot grade, screened fill-dirt is usually best because it has fewer rocks and large debris and compacts more uniformly. For a driveway base, crushed stone or crusher-run is a better choice than fill-dirt because it drains and locks up under traffic; mixed or unscreened fill-dirt can work for mass fill but may cause settling and poor drainage in West Tennessee's clay soils. Consider screened fill for lawn and yard fills and crushed stone for the final driveway base.

Fill-dirt can be used in Rocky Top but it is sensitive to moisture and can settle or heave if not properly compacted and drained. West Tennessee has clay soils and occasional freezes that amplify movement, so proper compaction, good slope for runoff, and avoiding wet or organic fill are important. For driveways or any traffic-bearing area, pair fill-dirt with a well-draining aggregate layer (like crushed stone) to reduce freeze/thaw and wet-season problems.

Fill-dirt is generally cheaper per ton than crushed stone, so upfront material cost is lower if you only need to raise grade. However, crushed stone provides better drainage, compaction, and durability under traffic, so it usually costs less over time because it requires less maintenance and lasts longer. For long-lasting driveways in Rocky Top's wet/clayey conditions, a crushed stone base topped with appropriate surface material is the more durable investment.

Contractor prices vary, but for small jobs in rural West Tennessee expect to pay roughly $30 to $75 per cubic yard for delivery plus spreading and compaction charges, or a combined labor/equipment rate that can put total installation for a small driveway project in the $400 to $1,500 range. Compaction-only charges are often billed per hour or per square foot; get written quotes that list hauling, spreading, equipment, and compaction separately. Prices depend on access, terrain, and how much finish grading or excavation is needed.

Hello Gravel connects you with local suppliers who commonly sell fill-dirt by the ton or cubic yard and deliver by dump truck; our platform enforces a 3-ton minimum order. Local quarries, landscapers, and farm suppliers in West Tennessee also sell bulk fill-dirt, but small loads may incur extra delivery or minimum-load fees. Check zip code availability in our checkout and add delivery notes (access, gate codes) to avoid surprises.

If properly compacted and installed with good drainage, fill-dirt can be stable for several years, but in clay-rich West Tennessee soils you may see settling or ruts within 1 to 3 years in areas that get traffic or poor drainage. For non-traffic areas that receive adequate compaction and runoff control, it can remain serviceable longer, but periodic grading and topping may still be needed. For driveways, using a crushed stone base greatly extends service life compared with fill-dirt alone.

Permit requirements vary by project type and location; many rural residential driveway connections to public roads require county permits, culvert approvals, or driveway permits, while simple yard grading often does not. Rocky Top city or Anderson County building and public works departments can confirm local rules, setback and drainage standards, and whether engineered fill specs are required for lot-level changes. Always check with the local building office before major grading or fill work to avoid rework or fines.

Common additional charges include extra travel fees for long haul distances, fees for tight or steep access where trucks need spotters or multiple trips, and labor charges if drivers must wheelbarrow material. Tailgate spreading is sometimes available at the driver's discretion but is not guaranteed; requesting it at checkout helps, but expect the driver to assess safety on arrival. To minimize surprises, include clear access notes, photos, and gate codes when ordering and confirm whether the supplier needs special equipment or offloading space.