Direct answer
Fill dirt builds volume. Topsoil supports the finished landscape.
Use fill dirt to raise grade, fill depressions and build a base where organic growing material is not needed. Use topsoil near the surface for sod, seed, planting and landscape finish work.
Fill dirt
Lower-organic material for volume, rough grade, low spots and site shaping. Pricing varies by source, cleanliness and screening.
Topsoil
Higher-organic finish material for turf and planting. Product quality and screening vary, so current source pricing matters.
Grading and low areas
Estimate the volume needed to reach the proposed grade, then allow for settlement and compaction. Do not place topsoil throughout a deep fill when only the upper growing layer needs it.
Sand, mulch and finish materials
| Material | Common use | Planning price |
|---|---|---|
| Masonry sand | Paver work and fill applications | $65–$85/ton |
| Granite sand | Paver base and stone-related applications | $50–$70/ton |
| Black mulch | Landscape-bed finish | Current quote/yard |
Why dirt prices are quoted
Fill dirt and topsoil are less standardized than numbered stone. Screening, organic content, moisture, source and availability can materially change the product and price. MSS therefore requests a current source quote instead of publishing a false fixed number.
Estimate soil volume