How to Calculate Gravel Yardage and Weight in Tons
Gravel and crushed stone are sold by quarry and landscape suppliers primarily by the ton (2,000 lbs) rather than volume alone. Because gravel is significantly heavier than topsoil or mulch, understanding density conversion formulas is crucial to avoid underestimating weight capacity for delivery trucks or utility trailers.
Common Landscape Gravel Types and Density Specifications
| Gravel Aggregate Grade | Density (Tons per Yard) | Ideal Project Use Case |
|---|---|---|
| Pea Gravel (3/8" rounded) | 1.40 tons (2,800 lbs) | Walkways, patios, dog runs, flower bed ground cover |
| #57 Crushed Limestone (3/4") | 1.45 tons (2,900 lbs) | Driveways, French drains, concrete aggregate mixing |
| Crusher Run / #411 (with fines) | 1.50 tons (3,000 lbs) | Driveway base, paver sub-base, heavy load compaction |
| River Rock / Cobble (1" to 3") | 1.35 tons (2,700 lbs) | Dry creek beds, drainage swales, landscape accents |
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you convert cubic yards of gravel to tons?
One cubic yard of standard crushed gravel or pea gravel weighs approximately 2,800 lbs (1.4 tons). To convert cubic yards to tons, multiply total cubic yards by 1.4. For example, 5 cubic yards of gravel = 5 x 1.4 = 7.0 tons.
How deep should gravel be for a residential driveway?
A standard residential gravel driveway requires a total depth of 4 to 8 inches: a 4-inch base layer of coarse angular crushed stone (#411 or crusher run) topped by 2 to 3 inches of smaller finish gravel (#57 stone or pea gravel).
How many 50-lb bags of gravel make a ton?
Since one US short ton equals 2,000 lbs: 2,000 / 50 = 40 bags of gravel per ton (or approximately 56 bags per cubic yard).
What is the best gravel size for French drains and walking paths?
For French drains and drainage trenches, 3/4-inch to 1-inch washed river rock or #57 stone is ideal to allow maximum water flow. For walking paths, 3/8-inch pea gravel or crushed granite provides a smooth, comfortable walking surface.