Measure Volume and 3D Terrain

In this guide, you’ll learn how to measure volume and 3D terrain using Moasure

Moasure captures measurements in three dimensions as you move, allowing you to record changes in elevation and map real-world terrain. From this, it provides surface area and volume — enabling you to measure everything from flat surfaces to complex landscapes.

There are two ways to measure volume with Moasure:

• Simple Method — capture perimeter and elevation in a single measurement

• Advanced Method (Layers) — return later and add volume to an existing perimeter

Start with the Simple Method below, or jump to the Advanced Method if you are working with layers.

3D Terrain Mapping & Volume Measurements

Measuring Volume (Simple Method)

Measuring Volume (Simple Method)

To measure volume in a single measurement, follow these steps:

1. Tap Start to begin a new measurement

2. Walk the perimeter of the area you want to measure

3. Return to your starting point without ending the measurement

4. Change the path type to Points

5. Walk within the perimeter, capturing elevation data across the area

   • Use a spiral or zig-zag pattern for best coverage

   • Capture more points in areas with slopes or uneven ground to improve accuracy

6. Once complete, return to your original starting point

   • This helps improve overall accuracy

7. Tap the red stop button to finish the measurement

Measuring Volume as a Layer (Advanced Method)

Moasure allows you to capture volume as an additional layer, meaning you can return to a site later and measure volume using a previously recorded perimeter.

This is especially useful for landscaping, excavation, or turfing projects where elevation data isn’t needed during the initial visit but can be added later.

Before You Begin

To ensure accurate results:

• Your original measurement must include a clear, straight A–B reference edge

• Mark Point A and Point B with visible markers (e.g. flags or cones) so you can return to the exact same positions

How to Add a Volume Layer

1. Open your saved measurement, tap the Layers icon, then select Add Layer

2. The app will display your A–B reference edge

   • This is the original edge used to align the new volume layer with your perimeter

1. Return to Point A, then walk toward Point B to retrace your original A–B reference edge

   • A black guide line will appear to help you follow the same reference edge

   • This step ensures your new layer is correctly aligned with the original measurement

2. Once the A–B reference walk is complete, the app will automatically switch to Ignore Line

   • This allows you to move freely within the perimeter without affecting it

3. At Point B, change the path type from Ignore Line to Points

   • This creates a new reference point (Point C) at the same location

   • You will return to this point to complete the layer

   Note: You can choose a different location for Point C if needed. If you do, make sure it is clearly marked so you can return to the exact same position to finish the layer.

4. Begin capturing elevation data across the area

   • Move in a spiral or zig-zag pattern

   • Place points wherever the height changes

   • Capture more points in areas with slopes, peaks, or dips for better accuracy

5. As you move, a chequered flag will remain visible to show your return point (Point C), and a dotted line will show your path

6. Once you’ve finished capturing data, return to Point C and capture your final point

   • This closes the loop and helps maintain alignment

7. Tap the red stop button to finish the layer

Viewing Your Data

To view your volume calculation:

• Tap 3D Mesh view to see the calculated volume

You can choose between two reference planes:

• Lowest Point Plane Uses the lowest captured point as the base Best for excavations, pools, or areas below ground level

• Perimeter Plane Uses the height of the perimeter as the base Best for stockpiles or materials sitting on relatively level ground

Optional Tools

To access additional volume tools:

• Tap Edit, then scroll to:

• Cut and Fill Estimates how much material needs to be added or removed to level the surface

• Add Depth Calculates the volume of material below the measured surface (ideal for excavation)

Contour Mapping

To view contour data:

• Tap the Contour icon

Contour maps show changes in elevation using lines that connect points of equal height.

• Closely spaced lines indicate steeper slopes

• Wider spacing indicates flatter areas

You can switch between 2D and 3D views, and adjust contour settings within the app.

Learn more about the available views and how to use them in our Views Guide.

Contour 2D

Contour 3D

Surface

Advanced Tools

For more advanced calculations, such as estimating material quantities or levelling terrain, you can use Cut/Fill and Add Depth Tools.

When to Use Cut / Fill and Add Depth

When to Use Each Tool

• Add Depth Use when calculating how much material is needed to cover an area at a specific depth (e.g. mulch, soil, or aggregate)

• Cut / Fill Use when calculating how much material needs to be removed or added to level a surface or reshape terrain

Multi-Layer Surface Fitting

Volume measurements can be split across layers, allowing the perimeter to be captured in one layer and elevation data in another — or across multiple layers.

This is particularly useful for large or complex terrain with significant variation.

Key Benefits

• Redo specific layers without repeating the entire measurement

• Improve resolution by adding more elevation data

• Increase flexibility by separating perimeter and elevation capture

Things to Be Aware Of

• Accurate alignment between layers is essential

• Poor alignment can lead to incorrect volume results