Convert gravel yards to tons
Tons = cubic yards x density; confirm density and moisture with your supplier.
Some suppliers sell gravel by cubic yards, others by tons. The conversion depends on material density, which varies by gravel type, gradation, and moisture. That is why two suppliers can give different tons for the same yard estimate, and why wet material can weigh more.
Use your cubic yard estimate, then use the supplier's yards-to-tons conversion for the exact product you are buying whenever possible. Generic density numbers are fine for planning, but supplier conversions are the most reliable for ordering. If you switch products (base vs top), use separate conversions.
Step-by-step: yards to tons
- Estimate volume in cubic yards based on area and compacted depth (or use an existing yard estimate from a volume calculator). Use compacted depth as your target, then add buffer later.
- Choose a density for your material (tons per cubic yard). If the supplier provides a conversion table for your product, use it and note the product name/gradation.
- Multiply: tons = cubic yards x density (conversion factor). Keep units consistent: short tons (2,000 lb) vs metric tonnes (1,000 kg).
- Add a buffer for compaction, uneven grade, and edge loss. Bases are often compacted in lifts; the installed coverage can be smaller than the loose delivered volume.
- Round up to match delivery increments and minimum loads. The practical order size is often driven by truck size and fees, not perfect math.
Practical tips
- Wet material can weigh more than dry material-supplier conversions are the best source. Ask for the product name/gradation so you are comparing the right material.
- Different products (pea gravel, crushed stone, base rock) can have different densities. Do not assume one conversion fits both base and top layers.
- If you need exact tonnage for hauling limits, confirm the conversion before ordering and note whether the supplier uses short tons or metric tonnes. Ask whether their numbers are for loose or compacted material.
- Ordering slightly extra is usually cheaper than paying a second delivery fee and trying to match material later (especially for decorative stone).
Quick checklist
Yards-to-tons is only as accurate as the density you use, so treat supplier conversions as the source of truth. When in doubt, ask your supplier which ton unit they quote, what moisture condition they assume, and whether the number is for loose or compacted material.
- Start with a cubic yard estimate based on compacted (installed) depth. If you're estimating multiple layers, keep each layer separate so you don't mix products and densities.
- Use the supplier's conversion for your exact product whenever possible. Moisture and gradation can change weight, so generic "tons per yard" averages are best for planning only.
- Confirm the unit: short tons (2,000 lb) vs metric tonnes (1,000 kg). If you're hauling, ask the supplier what they load you to and whether it's measured or assumed.
- Add buffer and round to delivery increments or minimum loads. In practice, truck size and fees often matter more than perfect math.
Tons conversion notes
Tons calculations are only as good as the density assumption. Different gravel mixes (crushed stone, pea gravel, base) can vary enough to change your order size.
If you have delivery minimums, it’s often better to round up to a clean order size than to risk running short mid-project.
When in doubt, use your supplier’s density for the exact product—they see the same conversion every day and it’s usually more reliable than a generic chart.
Compaction changes coverage. The same tonnage looks like less volume after proper compaction, so plan your depth for the installed result, not the loose pile.
- Use a supplier-provided density when possible.
- Round up near delivery minimums.
- Plan for compaction—loose thickness is not final thickness.
- Keep extra material for touch-ups after the first few rains and compaction.
- Confirm unit: short ton (US) vs metric tonne.
Yards to tons: avoid conversion mistakes
Tons depend on density. The safest approach is to use your supplier’s conversion for the exact product you’re buying.
- Ask whether they use short tons (US) or metric tonnes.
- Moisture and product type change density; generic charts are only a starting point.
- Round up near delivery minimums to avoid a second load fee.
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