Conversions
How Many Tonnes of Gravel Are in a Cubic Yard?
A cubic yard of gravel weighs roughly 1.1 to 1.5 tonnes (about 1.2 to 1.7 US tons) — the exact figure depends on the gravel's density. Here's the conversion, a quick-reference table, and how to do it for any material.
The short answer
1 cubic yard of typical gravel ≈ 1.2–1.4 tonnes. Loose dry gravel is on the lighter side (≈1.16 t/yd³) and pea gravel or wet gravel on the heavier side (≈1.4–1.5 t/yd³).
The conversion formula
Weight comes from volume × density. One cubic yard equals 0.7646 cubic metres, so:
Tonnes per yd³ = 0.7646 × Density (t/m³)
For crusher run at 1.60 t/m³: 0.7646 × 1.60 ≈ 1.22 tonnes per cubic yard.
Tonnes per cubic yard by gravel type
| Gravel type | Density (t/m³) | Tonnes / yd³ | ≈ lb / yd³ |
|---|---|---|---|
| Loose dry gravel | 1.52 | 1.16 | 2,560 |
| River rock | 1.44 | 1.10 | 2,430 |
| Crushed stone / crusher run | 1.60 | 1.22 | 2,700 |
| Crushed limestone | 1.68 | 1.28 | 2,830 |
| Pea gravel | 1.79 | 1.37 | 3,020 |
| Wet gravel | 2.00 | 1.53 | 3,370 |
Going the other way: tonnes to cubic yards
To turn a tonnage back into yards, divide by the same factor. For crusher run, 1 tonne ÷ 1.22 ≈ 0.82 cubic yards. As a rough rule, 1 tonne of gravel ≈ 0.7–0.9 cubic yards.
Not sure which density to use? The Gravel Tonnage Calculator has presets for each gravel type, and the Cubic Yards Calculator works from your area and depth.
Frequently asked questions
How many tonnes are in a cubic yard of gravel?
About 1.1–1.5 tonnes, depending on the gravel. Typical crushed stone is roughly 1.22 tonnes per cubic yard; pea gravel and wet gravel are heavier at about 1.4–1.5 tonnes per yard.
How do I convert cubic yards of gravel to tonnes?
Multiply cubic yards by 0.7646 to get cubic metres, then multiply by the gravel's density in t/m³. Or just multiply cubic yards by about 1.2–1.4 for typical gravel.
How many cubic yards are in a tonne of gravel?
Roughly 0.7–0.9 cubic yards per tonne for typical gravel. Denser or wet gravel gives fewer yards per tonne; loose dry gravel gives slightly more.
Why does the weight of a cubic yard of gravel vary?
Because density changes with the stone's mineral type, particle size, how tightly it packs and how wet it is. Wet gravel can weigh 20–30% more than the same volume when dry.
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.