Measure Piles Without Climbing Them

Volumetric Analysis and Measurement in Florida and Alabama

When you're managing stockpiles of aggregate, soil, or other bulk materials in Hilliard, Florida, knowing how much material is on hand affects ordering, billing, and site planning. Walking a pile with a tape measure doesn't give you reliable volume, and manual data collection takes time your crew could spend on other tasks. Aerial Metrology & Inspection uses drone-based data collection and processing software to calculate stockpile volumes with repeatable accuracy, so you know exactly what you have without sending anyone up a slope or into unstable material.

This service is used in mining, aggregates, construction sites, and material yards where volume tracking matters for inventory, invoicing, or loss prevention. We capture the pile from above, process the data into a 3D surface model, and calculate volume against a defined base elevation. The result is a report that shows cubic yards or tons, depending on material density, along with visual documentation of pile shape and location.

If your site in Hilliard depends on accurate material counts and you want data-driven reporting instead of rough estimates, reach out to discuss your measurement needs.

How Volume Measurement Actually Works

Volume measurement starts with a flight over your stockpile using a drone equipped with a high-resolution camera or LiDAR sensor. We process the images or point cloud data into a 3D model that represents the pile's surface. Then we define a base plane—either the ground level or a custom reference elevation—and calculate the volume of material above that plane. For sites in Hilliard, we can measure single piles or track multiple stockpiles across a large yard in a single visit.

Once the analysis is complete, you receive a report with volume totals, cut-and-fill comparisons if tracking changes over time, and a visual map showing pile locations and dimensions. Repeatable measurement tracking reduces material loss by making discrepancies visible and gives you a defensible record for billing or inventory audits.

Reports can be delivered as PDFs, CAD files, or spreadsheets depending on how your team tracks data. This service does not include material sampling or density testing—volume is calculated from shape and dimensions, and you apply density factors based on your material type.

Questions About Accuracy and Timing

Most clients want to know how accurate the numbers are and how often they should schedule measurements.

What if I need a licensed survey?

We can deliver a licensed survey for any data we collect, by partnering with one of our local registered land surveyors.

What if the pile shape changes between flights?
We can compare volumes from different dates and generate a cut-and-fill report showing where material was added or removed.
How long does a typical measurement visit take?
Flight time is usually under an hour for most sites. Processing and reporting typically take one to two business days after the flight.
Can you measure piles that are partially covered or in tight spaces?
Yes, as long as the pile is visible from above and there's safe airspace to operate. Covered or enclosed material requires a different measurement approach.
Do you provide volume in tons or cubic yards?
We provide volume in cubic yards or cubic meters. If you need tonnage, you apply a density conversion factor based on your material type.

If you're managing stockpiles or site materials in Hilliard and need repeatable, defensible volume data, Aerial Metrology & Inspection can deliver reports that support inventory tracking, billing, and material management. Contact us to schedule a site visit and discuss your measurement timeline.