Free Cubic Yards to Tons Calculator - Gravel, Sand & Soil
Convert cubic yards of gravel, sand, soil, concrete, mulch, asphalt, and more into US short tons and metric tons.
Formula & Methodology
Cubic yards are converted to cubic meters and multiplied by bulk density to get mass, then converted to US and metric tons.
- Cubic Meters = Cubic Yards × 0.764554858
- Kilograms = Cubic Meters × Density (kg/m³)
- US Tons = Kilograms ÷ 907.18474
Worked Example
Using the Cubic Yards to Tons Calculator: apply the formula above to your input values. For instance, Cubic Meters = Cubic Yards × 0.764554858, then Kilograms = Cubic Meters × Density (kg/m³). The tool performs each step instantly and shows the result.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many tons are in a cubic yard of gravel?
Roughly 1.4 US tons per cubic yard for typical gravel, though this varies with stone size and moisture. Sand and soil differ based on their densities.
How do I convert cubic yards to tons?
Convert cubic yards to cubic meters (×0.7646), multiply by material density to get kilograms, then divide by 907.18 for US tons or 1,000 for metric tons.
Why is cubic yards to tons used in landscaping?
Suppliers sell bulk aggregate, mulch, and soil by volume (yards) but trucks and job specs are often rated by weight (tons), so conversion is essential.
Does moisture affect the weight?
Yes. Wet sand or soil is significantly heavier than dry material, so use a higher density or add a margin when material is damp.
Can I use custom materials?
Yes. Choose "Custom Density" and enter a value in kg/L, kg/m³, or lb/ft³ for any material not listed.
How much material do I need for a project?
Calculate the volume of your area in cubic yards first, then use this tool to convert to tons for ordering. Add 5–10% for waste and compaction.