Gravel Calculator

Free gravel calculator for cubic yards and tons from length, width, and depth.

Results

2Cubic yards to buy

  • 1.3Exact cubic yards
  • 33.33Cubic feet
  • 2Tons to buy
  • 1.82Exact tons

How it works

Cubic yards = (L × W × depth÷12) ÷ 27 × (1 + waste%). Tons ≈ order yards × 1.4 (typical crushed stone). Buy quantities are rounded up.

Worked example

Example: 30 ft × 10 ft path at 3 in → 75 cu ft ≈ 2.78 cu yd ≈ 3.9 tons planning weight; buy 3 cu yd / 4 tons after rounding.

Depth by use

Walkways often use 2–3 inches. Driveway base layers may be 4–6+ inches. Decorative topdressing can be shallower.

Tons vs yards

Suppliers may quote either unit. Density varies by rock type and moisture; 1.4 tons per cubic yard is a common planning factor for crushed gravel—ask your quarry for their number.

Compaction

Gravel settles when compacted. If the finished height matters, discuss compaction factor with your installer or order a modest surplus.

Frequently asked questions

How many tons of gravel per cubic yard?

About 1.2–1.5 tons depending on material. YardCalc uses 1.4 as a default planning density.

How much gravel for a driveway?

Measure length × width × depth of each layer. A long driveway often needs multiple cubic yards—run the numbers before ordering delivery.

Is pea gravel the same density?

Not exactly. Rounded pea gravel and angular crush can differ. Adjust if your supplier provides a density.

Estimates only. Verify coverage rates and local requirements before purchasing materials. Not a substitute for professional advice.