The conversion needs a density
Cubic yards describe volume. Tons describe mass. Multiply your cubic yards by the material’s bulk density in tons per cubic yard. The same volume of different aggregates can weigh different amounts, so a conversion without an assumed density is incomplete.
US tons and metric tonnes are different
A US short ton is 2,000 pounds. A metric tonne is 1,000 kilograms, approximately 2,204.62 pounds. Our gravel result is always labeled US tons, including when your measurements are metric. The density field also uses US tons per cubic yard.
Use a supplier figure
The gravel calculator starts at an illustrative density of 1.4 US tons per cubic yard. It is not a specification for every type of gravel. Particle size, moisture and how the material is packed change bulk density. Ask the supplier for the density of the exact product in the condition in which it will be delivered.
A worked example
At an assumed 1.4 US tons per cubic yard, 3 cubic yards weighs approximately 4.2 US tons: 3 × 1.4 = 4.2. If the supplier instead gives 1.6, the same volume weighs 4.8 US tons. That 0.6-ton difference is why density deserves its own input.
Do not use this as a vehicle loading limit
An estimated material weight does not determine safe vehicle payload. Delivery loads, trailers, axle ratings and wet material need separate checks. Confirm actual weight and transport arrangements with your supplier.
Put your measurements to work.
Calculate volume, adjust your allowance and save a link to your estimate.
Open the calculator ↗