Cubic Yards to Tons Calculator
Convert cubic yards to U.S. tons for gravel, sand, topsoil, mulch, concrete, and other bulk materials using material density.
Select Material Type
Total Estimated Weight
14
U.S. Short Tons
Pounds (lb)
28,000
Metric Tonnes
12.7
Delivery Logistics
Based on 15-ton truck capacity
1
Loads
What-if Simulator
Model the impact of density variations (wet vs dry) on your total required tonnage.
Density increases can occur due to rain, high moisture, or heavy aggregate selection. A 10% heavier material means paying for 10% more tons for the exact same cubic yard volume.
Base Target
14 t
Simulated Order
14 t
No Variance
Density modifier is neutral.
How to Convert Cubic Yards to Tons
To convert cubic yards to tons, multiply your cubic yardage by the material’s specific density (tons per cubic yard). Because a cubic yard measures volume (space) and a ton measures weight (2,000 lb), there is no single universal conversion rate—the answer entirely depends on what material you are measuring.
For example, 10 cubic yards of dense gravel at 1.4 tons/yd³ weighs about 14 tons. However, 10 cubic yards of light mulch at 0.3 tons/yd³ weighs only 3 tons.
Standard Formula
Tons = yd³ × tons/yd³Multiply volume by density in tons per cubic yard.
Pounds/Cubic Foot Formula
Tons = yd³ × 27 × lb/ft³ ÷ 2,000For US Short Tons using lb/ft³ density metric.
Cubic Yards to Tons Examples
Quick reference conversions for common bulk landscaping and construction materials.
Gravel Conversion
Example: 5 cubic yards of gravel
5 yd³ × 1.4 tons/yd³
= 7.0 tons
Sand Conversion
Example: 10 cubic yards of dry sand
10 yd³ × 1.35 tons/yd³
= 13.5 tons
Mulch Conversion
Example: 3 cubic yards of wood mulch
3 yd³ × 0.3 tons/yd³
= 0.9 tons
Tons per Cubic Yard by Material
The table below provides standard density estimates. Moisture, aggregate size, and compaction can alter these figures. Always confirm exact scale weight with your supplier.
| Material | Approx. tons/yd³ | Approx. lb/ft³ |
|---|---|---|
| Gravel (Loose) | 1.40 – 1.60 | 104 – 118 |
| Sand (Dry) | 1.30 – 1.50 | 96 – 111 |
| Sand (Wet) | 1.50 – 1.70 | 111 – 126 |
| Topsoil | 1.10 – 1.40 | 81 – 104 |
| Concrete (Wet) | 1.90 – 2.05 | 140 – 152 |
| Asphalt (Crushed) | 1.95 – 2.05 | 144 – 152 |
| Mulch (Wood) | 0.20 – 0.40 | 15 – 30 |
| Compost | 0.40 – 0.70 | 30 – 52 |
Cubic Yards to Tons FAQ
Expert answers for bulk material weight ordering, site logistics, and tonnage requirements.
How many tons are in a cubic yard of gravel?
There are usually about 1.4 to 1.6 tons in a cubic yard of gravel, depending on the stone size, moisture content, and compaction.
How many tons are in 10 cubic yards of gravel?
Using an average density of 1.4 tons per cubic yard, 10 cubic yards of gravel weighs about 14 tons.
Is 1 cubic yard equal to 1 ton?
No. A cubic yard measures volume (space), while a ton measures weight. The conversion depends entirely on material density. Only a material with a specific gravity matching exactly 1 ton per cubic yard would be 1:1.
How many cubic yards are in a ton?
To find cubic yards per ton, divide 1 by the material's density (tons/yd³). For gravel at 1.4 tons/yd³, 1 ton is about 0.71 cubic yards.
Why do wet materials weigh more?
Moisture increases weight without necessarily increasing measured volume. So wet sand, soil, or gravel absorbs water and can weigh up to 20% more per cubic yard than dry material.
How much weight can a standard dump truck carry?
A standard tandem-axle dump truck carries roughly 12 to 15 tons, while a larger tri-axle truck can haul 20 to 22 tons. Knowing tons helps you order the correct number of trucks.