Cubic Yards to Tons Calculator
Bulk materials are measured by volume (cubic yards) but often sold and delivered by weight (tons). Pick your material and enter the cubic yards to get the tonnage, using typical densities. Confirm the exact density with your supplier for large orders.
Your measurements
yd³
Weight
7 tons
5 yd³ of gravel (loose)
Conversion
- Density used
- 1.4 tons/yd³
- Pounds
- 14,000 lb
- Cubic feet
- 135 ft³
Tons for the same volume, by material
7tons
Gravel6.8tons
Sand5.5tons
Topsoil7.5tons
Crusher10tons
ConcreteEstimates only. Order a little extra for waste and verify against your supplier's coverage figures.
The formula
Tons = Cubic yards × density (tons per cubic yard)
Example: 5 cubic yards of gravel × 1.4 = 7 tons.
How it works
- 1Find your material's density in tons per cubic yard (gravel ≈ 1.4, topsoil ≈ 1.1).
- 2Multiply the cubic yards by that density to get tons.
- 3Densities vary with moisture and gradation — confirm with your supplier for large orders.
Frequently asked questions
How many tons is a cubic yard of gravel?
About 1.4 tons. Dry gravel ranges from 1.3 to 1.5 tons per cubic yard depending on the stone size and moisture content.
Why convert cubic yards to tons?
Quarries and aggregate suppliers usually price and deliver by the ton, while you measure the job by volume. Converting lets you order the correct weight.