Find the volume
For a rectangle, multiply length × width × depth. For a circle, use π × (diameter ÷ 2)² × depth. Convert all dimensions to the same unit first.
Divide cubic feet by 27 for cubic yards. One cubic yard is a volume, not a weight.
THE MATH, MADE CLEAR
From a patch of ground to an order.
Estimate the weight
Weight = volume × bulk density. Density includes the spaces between pieces of gravel. Grading, moisture, and how the material is packed change this value.
A US short ton is 2,000 lb. A metric tonne is 1,000 kg. They are different units.
Build the budget
Order volume = measured volume × (1 + extra % ÷ 100). Multiply the selected order quantity by its unit price, then add delivery.
Cost is in USD and excludes tax, labor, equipment, and any fees not entered here.
WORKED EXAMPLE
A 20 ft × 10 ft area, 3 inches deep
3 inches = 0.25 ft. Volume = 20 × 10 × 0.25 = 50 ft³, or 1.852 yd³. At an assumed 105 lb/ft³, that is 5,250 lb, or 2.625 US short tons. At $50 per short ton plus $40 delivery, the estimate is $171.25, with no extra allowance.
Before you place an order
Which density should I use for pea gravel or river gravel?
Ask your supplier for the loose bulk density or tons per cubic yard of the exact product. There is no single value for all gravel. The initial 105 lb/ft³ value is an illustrative assumption; changing it affects weight and weight-based cost, not geometric volume.
Does extra material account for compaction?
No. It simply adds the percentage you enter. If your dimensions describe a compacted layer, ask the supplier how much loose material is needed. Do not combine a compacted density and a loose-volume allowance without checking the supplier’s recommendation.
How much gravel should I actually order?
The results are shown to three decimal places for comparison. Suppliers may sell in whole loads or other increments. Confirm the available order size, moisture, grade, and whether the quoted ton is a short ton or metric tonne. For several sections, calculate each section and add their quantities.
Calculation sources & assumptions
Unit conversions use NIST SI conversion factors: 1 ft = 0.3048 m; 1 lb = 0.45359237 kg. The volume-to-mass approach is also described by Calculator.net’s gravel calculation guide. Neither link certifies the starter density for your material.
Density default: product assumption of 105 lb/ft³; no supplier specification is implied. Sources reviewed October 9, 2026. Calculations keep full precision internally and round only displayed results.