Concrete

Concrete for Post Holes: Volume and Bags

Post-hole concrete is a cylinder-volume problem with one important correction: the post itself occupies part of the hole. Calculate the gross hole, subtract post displacement when appropriate, multiply by the number of posts, then convert the adjusted volume to the exact bag yield.

QUICK ANSWER

The short version

Calculate gross cylindrical hole volume, subtract the embedded post volume when appropriate, multiply by the number of holes, add a stated allowance, then divide by the selected concrete mix's published bag yield.

QUICK CHECKLIST

Five checks before trusting an estimate

  • Use actual hole diameter and depth rather than the nominal auger size.
  • A post reduces concrete volume only through the portion actually inside the concrete.
  • Divide required cubic feet by the manufacturer-published yield for the selected mix.
  • A quantity estimate does not establish required footing diameter, embedment, frost depth, uplift resistance, or post spacing.
  • Fast-setting and conventional concrete products can have different package sizes, yields, and placement instructions.
PUBLISHING INFO

About this guide

Published: September 18, 2026

Last reviewed: September 18, 2026

Published by BuildYard. The guide reflects BuildYard's calculation methodology and editorial standards and does not replace project-specific professional advice.

Measure the drilled hole

Use actual hole diameter and depth rather than the nominal auger size.

Separate holes that change diameter or depth instead of averaging them.

Subtract post displacement carefully

A post reduces concrete volume only through the portion actually inside the concrete.

Keep the assumption visible so it can be replaced when project or product data is available.

Convert volume to bags

Divide required cubic feet by the manufacturer-published yield for the selected mix.

Round up to whole bags only after all matching holes and the allowance are included.

Keep structural requirements separate

A quantity estimate does not establish required footing diameter, embedment, frost depth, uplift resistance, or post spacing.

Use project documents and applicable requirements for those decisions.

Confirm the selected mix

Fast-setting and conventional concrete products can have different package sizes, yields, and placement instructions.

Check the current product data before purchase and placement.

BUILDYARD REFERENCE EXAMPLE

Four 12 in × 36 in holes with 4 × 4 posts

BuildYard example uses actual 3.5 × 3.5 in square posts and a 0.60 cu ft yield per 80 lb bag.

StepResult
Gross four-hole volume9.42 cu ft
Embedded post displacement1.02 cu ft
Net concrete8.40 cu ft
With 10% allowance9.24 cu ft
At 0.60 cu ft per bag16 bags
SOURCE NOTES

References used for this guide

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VERIFY BEFORE ORDERING

Use project-specific information first

Current manufacturer data, supplier specifications, drawings, field measurements, applicable codes, permit requirements, and qualified professional guidance can take priority over a general-purpose planning estimate.