Convert cubic yards of any aggregate to tons using its density — useful when a supplier prices by the ton.
tons = cubic_yards × density
Multiply the volume in cubic yards by the material's density in tons per cubic yard.
Gravel 1.4, sand 1.35, topsoil 1.0–1.3, crushed stone 1.4 tons per cubic yard.
If a supplier quotes you 5 cubic yards of gravel but charges by the ton, multiply by the density: 5 x 1.4 = 7 tons. For sand at 1.35 it would be 6.75 tons; for topsoil at around 1.1, about 5.5 tons.
The density figure is the whole game here, and it varies with material, gradation, and — importantly — moisture. Wet sand weighs more than dry sand. Always use the density your specific supplier quotes rather than a generic table when the order is large.
Use the density your supplier quotes — it varies with material, gradation, and moisture content.
Tonnage for any bulk material is volume times density. Compute the volume — area times depth in feet, divided by 27 for cubic yards — then multiply by the material's density in tons per cubic yard. Densities vary: gravel about 1.4, sand about 1.35, crusher run about 1.5, topsoil about 1.0–1.3 depending on moisture. Use the figure for your specific material.
Bulk materials are sold by the ton because weight is what trucks haul and scales measure. Converting your cubic-yard volume to tons before you call lets you order in the supplier's unit and check the delivery ticket. Remember that moisture raises density, so wet material weighs more for the same volume.
Multiply cubic yards by the material density. Five yards of gravel at 1.4 is 7 tons.
Multiply cubic yards by the material's density in tons per cubic yard: about 1.4 for gravel, 1.35 for sand, 1.5 for crusher run, and 1.0–1.3 for topsoil depending on moisture.
Trucks haul and scales measure weight, so suppliers price by the ton. Converting your volume to tons before ordering lets you match their unit and verify the delivery ticket.
Yes. Wet material is denser than dry, so the same volume weighs more. Densities are approximate and shift with moisture content.