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Cubic Yards To Tons
Quick answer: Tons equals cubic yards multiplied by the material's density in tons per yard. Many gravels run about 1.4, sand near 1.35, topsoil roughly 1.1, and mulch far lighter at roughly 0.2 to 0.4. Three yards of gravel at 1.4 is 4.2 US tons. Always use your supplier's figure because moisture and size change it.
How the estimate works
The conversion is a single multiplication, but the density is the uncertain part. Suppliers that sell by weight usually know their own product density; ask them. The result also shows tonnes and cubic metres.
| Material (illustrative) | Tons per yd³ | 3 yd³ ≈ tons |
|---|---|---|
| Common gravel | 1.4 | 4.2 |
| Sand (dry) | 1.35 | 4.05 |
| Topsoil | 1.1 | 3.3 |
| Wood mulch | 0.3 | 0.9 |
Worked example: cubic yards to tons
Illustrative examples (2026-10-29), not quotes or guarantees.
5 yd³ of crushed stone at 1.35 t/yd³ = 6.75 US tons ≈ 6.12 tonnes.
FAQ
Tons to yards?
Divide tons by density: 10 t ÷ 1.4 ≈ 7.1 yd³.
Why do suppliers differ?
Rock type, size and moisture.
Metric?
1 yd³ ≈ 0.765 m³.
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