What this calculator actually does
Gravel quantity starts with volume: area multiplied by depth. Weight cannot be determined from volume alone because aggregate density varies, so this calculator makes density an explicit editable input instead of pretending one tons-per-yard factor is universally correct.
How to use this calculator
Enter the length, width and compacted or placed depth you intend to cover.
Enter a project allowance for irregular edges, settlement or ordering contingency only if appropriate.
Enter the tons-per-cubic-yard density supplied for the actual material to estimate weight.
Where people use it
- •Driveway or path volume planning
- •Landscape-stone quantity checks
- •Comparing cubic-yard and ton supplier quotes
Example: 20 ft × 10 ft × 3 in layer
The geometric volume is 50 cubic feet, or about 1.852 cubic yards before allowance. Ton quantity then depends on the entered material density.
Assumptions and limits
- •Aggregate density changes with material type, grading, moisture and compaction. Verify the bulk-density assumption with the supplier.
- •The result does not include excavation swell, subgrade correction or delivery minimums unless you account for them separately.
Frequently asked questions
Why does the calculator ask for density?+
A cubic yard is volume while a ton is weight. Converting between them requires a material density.
How many cubic feet are in a cubic yard?+
There are exactly 27 cubic feet in one cubic yard.
Should depth be entered before or after compaction?+
Use the depth that matches your material/order planning method and verify whether the supplier’s recommendation refers to loose or compacted thickness.
Semantic next steps
Continue the calculation
These links move to a different input, formula or project stage rather than a keyword variation of this page.
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MAXScanner keeps the formula and assumptions beside the result so you can verify the number before using it in a drawing, estimate, specification, worksheet or document. Where a supplier, manufacturer, drawing or applicable standard owns a requirement, that source remains authoritative.