Conversions
How Much Does a Yard of Gravel Weigh?
A cubic yard of gravel weighs about 2,400 to 3,400 pounds (1.1 to 1.5 tonnes). The exact weight depends on the gravel type and how wet it is — here are the numbers for the common ones, and why it matters for your truck and trailer.
Weight of a cubic yard of gravel by type
| Gravel type | Pounds / yd³ | Tonnes / yd³ |
|---|---|---|
| River rock (smooth) | ≈ 2,430 lb | 1.10 t |
| Loose dry gravel | ≈ 2,560 lb | 1.16 t |
| Crusher run / crushed stone | ≈ 2,700 lb | 1.22 t |
| Crushed limestone | ≈ 2,830 lb | 1.28 t |
| Pea gravel | ≈ 3,020 lb | 1.37 t |
| Wet gravel | ≈ 3,370 lb | 1.53 t |
A US ton is 2,000 lb; a metric tonne is 2,205 lb. So a yard of crushed stone is roughly 1.35 US tons or 1.22 tonnes.
Why moisture matters
Water adds real weight. The same gravel can weigh 10–30% more when soaked than when bone dry, because water fills the gaps between stones. If gravel has been sitting in the rain or you're hauling it after a storm, plan for the heavier end of the range.
What that means for hauling
Weight, not volume, is usually what limits a pickup or trailer:
- A 1/2-ton pickup is typically rated for roughly half a cubic yard of gravel (≈1,000–1,500 lb payload) — check your vehicle's payload rating.
- A single-axle utility trailer often tops out near 1 cubic yard of gravel.
- A full tandem dump truck hauls about 10–14 cubic yards (15–20 tonnes).
Always work to your vehicle's payload and trailer rating, not just what fits in the box. Overloading is a safety and legal issue.
Estimate the weight for your job
Enter your area and depth in the Gravel Tonnage Calculator to get the total weight in tonnes, kilograms and pounds, or convert a known volume with the cubic-yard-to-tonnes guide.
Frequently asked questions
How much does a yard of gravel weigh?
About 2,400–3,400 lb (1.1–1.5 tonnes). Typical crushed stone is roughly 2,700 lb (1.22 tonnes) per cubic yard; pea gravel and wet gravel weigh more.
How much does a yard of pea gravel weigh?
Around 3,000 lb (about 1.37 tonnes) per cubic yard, since pea gravel packs a little denser than loose crushed stone.
Can a pickup truck carry a yard of gravel?
Most half-ton pickups can only safely carry about half a cubic yard of gravel because a full yard weighs well over a tonne. Check your truck's payload rating before loading.
Does wet gravel weigh more than dry gravel?
Yes. Water fills the gaps between stones, so wet gravel can weigh 10–30% more than the same volume of dry gravel.
Disclaimer: This guide gives general estimates for planning. Actual gravel quantities, weights and prices vary with material type, particle size, moisture, compaction, supplier and your province. Costs are material-only ballparks in Canadian dollars and exclude labour, delivery and taxes unless stated. Always confirm quantities and prices with your local supplier.