Gravel Weight Calculator: Find Your Load Weight in Pounds & Tons
When ordering gravel, suppliers ask for one thing: the total weight. Our Gravel Weight Calculator helps you find that number in seconds. The tool translates your project’s dimensions and the gravel’s specific density into a precise weight in pounds or tons. This ensures you order the right amount of material the first time.
One cubic yard of common gravel weighs between 2,800 and 3,400 pounds. This figure changes based on the rock type, size, and moisture. A single cubic foot weighs around 105 to 125 pounds. Knowing these details is the first step to a successful project and an accurate budget.
This tool is designed to give you an exact gravel conversion weight, which helps you avoid buying too much or too little. It simplifies planning for any landscaping or construction job.
For calculations focused purely on volume or tonnage, you might find our related tools useful. The gravel tonnage calculator can help you focus specifically on ton-based orders.
How to Calculate Gravel Weight in 3 Simple Steps
Our calculator is built for speed and accuracy. Follow these three steps to determine the exact weight of gravel needed for your project.
Step 1: Enter Your Project Dimensions
First, input the length, width, and depth of the area you plan to fill. The calculator uses these measurements to find the total volume in cubic feet. It then converts this figure into cubic yards, the standard unit for bulk material orders.
Step 2: Choose Your Gravel Type
Next, select the type of gravel you are using. The menu includes options like dry, wet, or crushed gravel. Each choice applies a standard density from industry data to calculate gravel weight. If your supplier provides a specific density, you can enter it in the custom field.
Step 3: Get an Instant Weight Calculation
Finally, click the “Calculate” button. The tool multiplies the project volume by the gravel density. It instantly shows the total weight in both pounds and tons, giving you the numbers you need to place your order with confidence.
Common Gravel Weight Per Yard and Foot
The weight of gravel is not a single, fixed number. It varies based on several key factors, with density being the most important. Understanding how this works is key to getting an accurate result from any gravel weight calculator.
Density is a measure of how much material is packed into a space. For gravel, this is usually shown in pounds per cubic foot (lb/ft³) or pounds per cubic yard (lb/yd³). Denser gravel weighs more.
The table below shows common weights for different types of gravel. Use these figures as a starting point for quick estimates.
| Material Condition | Weight of Gravel per Cubic Foot | Gravel Weight per Yard (lbs) | Gravel Weight in Tons (per Yard) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dry Natural Gravel | 105 lb | 2,835 lb | 1.42 t |
| Wet Natural Gravel | 125 lb | 3,375 lb | 1.69 t |
| Crushed Stone Base | 100 lb | 2,700 lb | 1.35 t |
| ¾″ Minus Aggregate | 104 lb | 2,808 lb | 1.40 t |
3 Factors That Influence Gravel Weight
Three main variables can significantly change the final weight of your gravel load. Accounting for them helps ensure your calculation is as accurate as possible.
1. Moisture Content
Water is a major factor. Rain or moisture from washing can fill the gaps between stones, adding significant weight without increasing volume. A load of wet gravel can weigh up to 30% more than the same amount of dry gravel. If possible, schedule your delivery on a dry day to avoid paying for water.
2. Compaction Level
How tightly the gravel is packed also affects its weight. Loose, uncompacted gravel has more air pockets between the particles. When gravel is compacted with machinery or settles in a pile, these gaps are reduced. Compacted gravel can weigh 100 to 200 pounds more per cubic yard than loose fill.
3. Rock Type and Size
The type of stone is a fundamental factor. Different rocks have different densities. Granite, for example, is very dense and heavy. The crushed gravel weight from recycled concrete will differ from that of natural river rock. Always ask your quarry about the source rock for an accurate weight calculation.
Why Calculating Gravel Weight Is Important
An accurate weight calculation is more than just a number. It has a real impact on your project’s budget, safety, and timeline.
Control Project Costs
Haulers and suppliers price material by the ton. An accurate weight calculation prevents you from overpaying for gravel you do not need. It makes your budget more reliable.
Ensure Vehicle Safety
Every truck and trailer has a legal weight limit. A typical single-axle dump truck handles about 2–3 tons. Overloading a vehicle is illegal and can damage its axles and tires. Using a calculator ensures every load is safe.
Improve Project Scheduling
Knowing the exact weight helps you determine the number of truckloads your job requires. This allows you to schedule crews and equipment efficiently, avoiding downtime.
Enhance On-Site Safety
A properly weighed and balanced load reduces the risk of a tip-over during dumping and spreading. This is especially important on uneven ground or a busy job site.
Frequently Asked Question
How much does 1 yard of gravel weigh in tons?
One cubic yard of dry gravel weighs approximately 1.42 tons. If the gravel is wet, its weight can increase to about 1.69 tons. The specific crushed gravel weight can also vary based on rock type.
What is a gravel conversion weight?
A gravel conversion weight is the figure used to change a volume measurement (like cubic yards) into a weight measurement (like pounds or tons). This conversion depends on the gravel’s density, which is affected by its type, moisture, and compaction.
How do I calculate the weight of gravel for my driveway?
First, measure the length, width, and desired depth of your driveway in feet to find the total cubic feet. Use our calculator to convert that volume to cubic yards and then multiply by the gravel’s density (e.g., 2,700 lb/yd³ for crushed stone base) to find the total weight.
Does wet gravel weigh more than dry gravel?
Yes, significantly more. Water fills the void spaces between gravel particles, adding considerable weight without taking up more volume. This can increase the total weight of a load by as much as 30%.
How do you convert gravel weight from pounds to tons?
To convert the weight of gravel from pounds to short tons, you divide the total pounds by 2,000. For example, a 5,400-pound load of crushed gravel is equal to 2.7 tons (5400 / 2000).
What is the weight of gravel per cubic foot?
The weight of gravel per cubic foot is typically between 100 and 125 pounds. Dry, loose gravel is on the lower end of that range, while wet or compacted gravel is on the higher end.