Define what is being measured
Share the project location, the material or landform, the area to include, and the decision the estimate will support. Identify whether you need a current quantity, a comparison between dates, or cut-and-fill information for planned work.
For a stockpile, the measurement boundary matters: neighboring terrain, vegetation, structures, or separate piles should not be included by accident. Tell us about access restrictions and whether equipment or material movements could change the site during collection.
Gather prior DEMs and collection dates
LiDAR can describe the current surface shape and height. Calculating a volume also needs a suitable reference surface beneath the material or a compatible earlier surface. Prior digital elevation models (DEMs) can be useful where they represent the relevant terrain and have suitable coverage and quality.
Share any earlier surveys, DEMs, design surfaces, and collection dates. We need to check coordinate systems, vertical references, units, and whether the terrain changed between datasets. Historical state LiDAR can help where coverage and suitability are confirmed; its availability alone does not establish a reliable comparison.
Reference: Esri: Measuring volumes using an elevation surface
Distinguish volume, weight, and subsurface estimates
Volume is a three-dimensional quantity, commonly reported in cubic yards or cubic meters. Converting it to weight or tonnage requires an appropriate material-density estimate and an understanding of conditions such as moisture and compaction. LiDAR does not directly weigh a stockpile.
For a gravel esker, surface measurements do not reveal where gravel ends below ground. Soil samples or other ground information are needed to support estimates of deposit depth and extent. These assumptions should remain visible in the estimate rather than being presented as direct laser measurements.
Agree on checking and repeat measurements
Confirm the output units, reporting format, acceptable uncertainty, and checks before work begins. Sensor-position specifications do not automatically establish the accuracy of a finished volume estimate.
Tracking stockpile changes requires repeat measurements of the same area, using compatible references and clearly recorded dates. Keep a record of material movements around collection time. If you only need a quote initially, start with the location, a boundary sketch, your available data, and the intended use of the result.