One of the challenges with DIY backyard landscaping projects is minimizing the cost associated with dirt, rock, and sand delivery. If you have a truck and live close to a mulch yard or quarry, you may save time and expense by delivering and unloading the material yourself. However, a landscaping professional will likely get materials at a lower cost and deliver the load to you with their dump truck.
New lawns require three to six inches of topsoil, depending on the condition of your soil. If your soil has been somewhat neglected, opt for closer to six inches. Garden beds require eight inches of topsoil. The best way to incorporate topsoil is to till two to three inches into the existing soil before placing the rest on top.
Typically, delivery companies bring your bulk bags of topsoil using a tail lift, dump truck, or crane offload. Choose an easy-to-access surface delivery area with a flat, hard surface. Ideally, the route from the main roads to the delivery area will be hard surfaces like concrete, asphalt, pavers, or gravel. Some companies won’t drive over or deliver onto grass, dirt, or other soft areas.
Make sure there are no landscaping issues or power lines that may obstruct the delivery. Someone must be available when the delivery truck arrives to troubleshoot any potential issues that may arise.