How to Convert Cubic Yards to Tons
Part of Landscaping & Aggregate
Quick answer
Tons = cubic yards × density (tons per cubic yard). There's no single number because it depends on the material: gravel is about 1.4 tons/yd³, sand 1.35, topsoil 1.1, and concrete 2.0. So 5 yd³ of gravel ≈ 7 tons.
Cubic yards measure volume; tons measure weight. To convert you need the material's density — how much one cubic yard of it weighs. Bulk materials are ordered by volume but often priced and trucked by weight, so this conversion comes up constantly.
Density by material (tons per cubic yard)
| Material | Tons per yd³ | 5 yd³ = |
|---|---|---|
| Mulch | ~0.5 | ~2.5 tons |
| Topsoil | ~1.1 | ~5.5 tons |
| Sand | ~1.35 | ~6.75 tons |
| Gravel / crushed stone | ~1.4 | ~7 tons |
| Limestone | ~1.35 | ~6.75 tons |
| Concrete | ~2.0 | ~10 tons |
| Asphalt | ~2.0 | ~10 tons |
The formulas
- Tons = cubic yards × tons per cubic yard (density).
- From cubic feet: divide by 27 first to get cubic yards, then multiply by density.
- Tons = (cubic yards × pounds per cubic yard) ÷ 2,000.
Densities vary with moisture and exact material, so treat these as solid averages and confirm with your supplier for a large order.
FAQs
How many tons is a cubic yard of gravel?
About 1.4 tons. Multiply your cubic yards by 1.4 to estimate the weight of crushed stone or gravel.
How do I convert cubic feet to tons?
Divide cubic feet by 27 to get cubic yards, then multiply by the material's density in tons per cubic yard.