Convert either direction with a material-specific density, then add an ordering allowance and supplier rounding.
Cubic yards measure volume; tons measure weight. The conversion depends on the exact gravel product, so a yard of dense road base can weigh much more than a yard of rounded pea gravel.
Cubic yards = area (sq ft) × depth (ft) ÷ 27. Then tons = cubic yards × supplier density ÷ 2,000.
Density varies by stone size, moisture, fines, and local product. Treat these as planning figures and use your supplier’s stated conversion for a final order.
Ranges show why a supplier conversion is more reliable than a universal value. Moisture and compaction fill voids and can move the delivered weight toward the high end.
| Material | Calculator preset | Planning range | US tons / yd³ | Moisture / fines caveat | Typical use |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 yd³ pea gravel | 2,565 lb/yd³ | Confirm locally | 1.28 | Wet or compacted loads weigh more | Rounded decorative stone |
| 1 yd³ #57 stone | 2,431 lb/yd³ | Confirm locally | 1.22 | Wet or compacted loads weigh more | Clean crushed stone |
| 1 yd³ #411 stone | 2,835 lb/yd³ | Confirm locally | 1.42 | Wet or compacted loads weigh more | Stone with fines |
| 1 yd³ dense graded | 3,374 lb/yd³ | Confirm locally | 1.69 | Wet or compacted loads weigh more | Compacted road base |
Print this page or copy the fields into your quote request. Use one row for each layer or material.
This field guide uses the same unit conversions and planning densities as the BaseLayerCalc material calculators. Values are rounded for ordering comparisons, not engineering specifications.
Material density, moisture, compaction, subgrade conditions, supplier rounding, and delivery minimums vary. Confirm the final quantity and specification with your supplier or contractor.
