MaterialScopeTons vs. cubic yards of gravel
Why there is no single conversion that works for every aggregate.
Gravel tons ↔ cubic yards converter
Convert using your supplier’s bulk density. The default 100 lb/ft³ is an example, not a specification for every gravel product.
Enable JavaScript to use the converter, or use the formulas and density table below.
Volume and weight answer different questions
A cubic yard describes a space three feet long, three feet wide and three feet deep. A U.S. short ton is 2,000 pounds. Neither tells you the other without knowing the material’s bulk density. A metric tonne is different from a U.S. short ton.
| Illustrative density | Weight per cubic yard |
|---|---|
| 90 lb/ft³ | 1.215 short tons |
| 100 lb/ft³ | 1.350 short tons |
| 110 lb/ft³ | 1.485 short tons |
Use a density that matches the order
Ask whether the density refers to loose, dry, damp or compacted material. The differences are real material conditions, not calculator errors. Do not use a compacted density to estimate loose delivery weight without understanding the conversion.
Compare supplier quotes on the same basis
A price per ton cannot be compared directly with a price per yard. Convert using the quoted product’s density, then account for delivery, minimum loads and fees. Ask the supplier to verify the expected quantity for your measured volume.
Example: comparing a per-ton and a per-yard quote
One supplier quotes $45 per ton and another $60 per cubic yard for a similar stone. At 100 lb/ft³, one cubic yard weighs 1.35 short tons, so the per-ton quote equals about $60.75 per cubic yard. The two prices are close; delivery charges and minimum loads may decide the order. At a different density, the comparison would change.
Converting tons back to cubic yards
Cubic yards = tons × 2,000 ÷ (density × 27). Ten tons of material at 100 lb/ft³ is 20,000 ÷ 2,700 = 7.41 cubic yards. Use this to check whether a tonnage quote actually covers your measured volume. The gravel calculator shows both units side by side.
Questions to ask the supplier
Is the price per ton or per cubic yard? What bulk density do you use for this product, and is it loose or compacted? What is the minimum order and the delivery charge? Is the material sold wet or dry? Written answers make quotes comparable.
Change the measurements and allowance to match your plan.
Open Gravel CalculatorMaterialScope editorial · Updated October 23, 2026 · Calculation methodology