3D Modeling

Stockpile Volumetrics and Cut-Fill Analysis for Construction

Volumetric calculations from aerial photogrammetry. Cubic yard and cubic meter reports for stockpiles, borrow pits, and earthwork. Used by GCs, aggregate suppliers, site developers, and engineers for material tracking, pay applications, and project closeout.

Request a Volumetrics Project Assessment

What Is Stockpile Volumetrics?

Stockpile volumetrics uses aerial photogrammetry to calculate the cubic yardage or cubic meterage of a stockpile, borrow pit, or earthwork area. We fly the site, generate a 3D surface model, and compute the volume between the surveyed surface and a reference plane or design grade. The output is a tabular report, a contour map, and a 3D visualization.

The traditional method is surveyor-and-GNSS, which is accurate but slow. Aerial volumetrics produces comparable results in a fraction of the time, and is safer because nobody has to climb a 40-foot aggregate pile.

When To Use It

Aggregate and material tracking. Quantify inventory at a quarry, batch plant, or lay-down yard. Run monthly to track material in and out without disrupting operations.
Earthwork progress payments. Subcontractors get paid based on cubic yards moved. Volumetrics gives both sides a defensible number without surveyor arguments.
Cut-fill balance. Compare a design surface to existing grade. Identify the cubic yards that need to be cut or filled across the site. Useful for site balancing and contractor bidding.
Project closeout and dispute resolution. Final volumes support contract closeout, bond release, and final payment applications. Useful documentation if a subcontractor disputes quantities.

What You Get

Volume Report

A tabular report with cubic yards of cut, cubic yards of fill, and net volume. Useful for payment milestones and stockpile tracking.

Contour Map

A contour map of the current surface, typically at 1-foot intervals. GeoTIFF or DWG format. Useful for visual reference and planning.

3D Surface Model

A 3D surface model of the measured area. GeoTIFF or LandXML format. Drop into Civil 3D, Revit, or any platform that accepts TIN surfaces.

Comparison Overlay

An optional side-by-side comparison of two measurements. Useful for tracking stockpile change over a defined period.

Frequently Asked Questions

How accurate is aerial volumetrics compared to surveyor GNSS?

For stockpiles, aerial volumetrics produces results comparable to traditional survey methods. The accuracy depends on pile geometry, vegetation cover, and ground control. For high-stakes pay applications, we recommend coordinating with a licensed surveyor for verification on a subset of piles.

What is the cost of stockpile volumetrics?

Starting at $750 for a single stockpile or pit up to 5 acres. Larger sites, multiple piles, and recurring monthly service are quoted based on acreage and complexity. The deliverable is the volume report, contour map, and 3D model.

How quickly can you deliver a volume report?

Standard delivery is 3-5 business days from the day of flight. Rush delivery (24-48 hours) is available. For ongoing monthly tracking, we deliver on a fixed schedule tied to your billing cycle.

Can you track material over time with repeat flights?

Yes. We offer monthly or quarterly stockpile tracking for aggregate yards, batch plants, and lay-down areas. Each flight produces a current volume, and the comparison between flights shows material in/out and net change.

Request a Volumetrics Project Assessment

Tell us about your site and the piles you need quantified. We will confirm fit and recommend a documentation plan.