Service 01 · Volume calculation
Volume calculation and material management
Know the volumes in your stockpiles of crushed rock, gravel, sand, soil and other materials – without walking around piles with a tape measure.
Volumes from drone data
During a flight, the stockpile is photographed from multiple angles. The images are processed into a digital surface model, from which the volume is calculated against a selected reference surface. The results support inventory control, production monitoring and material management planning.
With experience in aggregate crushing and material management, we understand how stockpiles are formed, how they change and which figures are needed to monitor operations.
Example projects
- Volume calculation for material stockpiles
- Documentation of material movements
- Comparison between surveys
- Data for internal monitoring and reporting
- Quantity calculations for excavated materials
What affects the results?
Weather, lighting, stockpile shape and the definition of the reference surface affect the calculation. Before starting, we review the conditions and agree on realistic accuracy and deliverables for your site.
Survey method and deliverable formats
We primarily survey using GNSS/RTK, which links the imagery directly to a coordinate system. Where needed, we add ground control points (GCPs) – for example when tighter positional control is required or site conditions call for it. The method is chosen based on the purpose of the project.
- Orthophotos and elevation models – GeoTIFF
- Point clouds – LAS/LAZ
- CAD data – DXF/DWG
- 3D model / mesh – OBJ
- Volume and summary reports – PDF
- Other formats and coordinate systems on request
Accuracy depends on factors such as flight altitude, image overlap, control points, terrain, vegetation, light and weather. We agree on realistic accuracy before the project starts.
Projects across Sweden and the Nordics
We take on assignments across Sweden and, by agreement, elsewhere in the Nordic region. Site size, travel, access and delivery requirements affect planning and pricing – tell us where and what, and we will come back with a proposal.
Frequently asked questions
How does drone volume calculation work?
The drone photographs the stockpile with high overlap. The images are processed photogrammetrically into a surface model, and the volume is calculated between that model and an agreed reference surface, such as an earlier survey or an interpolated ground surface.
What information do you need from us?
A map or location of the site, which stockpiles or areas to measure, any earlier surveys and your preferred delivery format. If you have your own reference surface or coordinate system, we will use it.
Can surveys be compared over time?
Yes. With repeat flights against the same reference, changes in volume and surface can be reported between surveys.
What affects the price?
Mainly site size, number of stockpiles, travel, required accuracy and the deliverables needed. We provide a quote after reviewing the conditions.
More services
Quarry and land surveying
Drone mapping of rock and gravel quarries, work sites and land.
033D modelling and terrain models
Orthophotos, point clouds, 3D models and terrain models from drone imagery.
04Drone inspections
Visual checks and documentation of roofs, facades, industrial buildings and hard-to-reach areas.
05Documentation and repeat surveying
Repeat flights showing changes over time in stockpiles, quarries and work sites.
What do you need to survey or inspect?
Tell us about your site or structure and we will propose a suitable approach.