Gravel Calculator - Estimate Yards & Tons
Use this gravel calculator to find how much gravel you need for any project. Enter the length and width in feet and the depth in inches, and it returns the volume in cubic yards plus an estimated weight in tons. Perfect for driveways, garden paths, patios, and landscaping fill.
Enter length, width, and depth to estimate the gravel you need.
How it works
How the gravel calculator works
The calculator multiplies length by width and by depth to get the volume of your project area, then converts that figure into cubic yards. One cubic yard equals 27 cubic feet, so the formula is (length × width × depth in feet) ÷ 27.
Because depth is usually small, you enter it in inches and the tool divides by 12 to convert it to feet before calculating.
Converting cubic yards to tons
Gravel suppliers often sell by weight, so the tool also estimates tons. A typical cubic yard of gravel weighs about 1.4 tons, though the exact figure varies with stone size and moisture.
Use the tonnage as a planning guide and confirm the actual density with your supplier before ordering.
Frequently asked questions
›How many cubic yards are in a ton of gravel?
About 0.7 cubic yards, since one cubic yard of gravel weighs roughly 1.4 tons. The exact ratio depends on the gravel type and moisture content.
›How deep should gravel be for a driveway?
A residential gravel driveway is usually 4 to 6 inches deep. Heavier traffic or soft ground may need a thicker base layer.
›Why is depth entered in inches?
Depth is typically only a few inches, so inches are easier to enter. The calculator automatically converts inches to feet before computing volume.
›Does this work for any shape?
It assumes a rectangle. For irregular areas, split the space into rectangles, calculate each one, and add the cubic yards together.
›Should I order extra gravel?
Yes, adding about 5 to 10 percent extra is wise to cover settling, compaction, and uneven ground.
Related tools
Last updated: