Gravel Calculator

How much gravel do I need?

Gravel, sand, and topsoil are estimated by volume — length × width × depth — and then converted to weight, because landscape suppliers usually sell by the ton (or tonne) and the truck is loaded by weight. This tool gives you both numbers, plus a bag count for small jobs.

The formula

• Volume: length × width × depth, with depth converted from inches (or cm) to the same unit as length. In US units, divide cubic feet by 27 to get cubic yards.
• Weight: volume × the material's density. Gravel runs about 1.4 US tons per cubic yard (1.68 tonnes/m³); topsoil is lighter, and bark mulch is much lighter still.

Because density varies by material and moisture, the tool lets you pick what you're ordering. Wet material weighs more than the dry figures shown, so treat the weight as an estimate and confirm with your supplier.

Choosing a depth

• Gravel path or walkway: 2–3 inches (5–8 cm) over a compacted base.
• Driveway: 4–6 inches (10–15 cm), often in two layers of different stone.
• Mulch beds: 2–3 inches (5–8 cm) — deep enough to suppress weeds, not so deep it suffocates roots.
• Topsoil for a new lawn: 4–6 inches (10–15 cm) of quality soil.

Bulk vs. bags

Bagged gravel is convenient but expensive per ton and heavy to haul — fine for a small bed or repair. For anything approaching a cubic yard, bulk delivery is dramatically cheaper. The bag count here uses 50 lb (US) and 25 kg bags; round up, since a project that comes up short means a second trip or a second delivery fee.

FAQ

Why does my supplier quote tons when I measured volume?

Trucks and scales work in weight, so suppliers price by the ton even though you think in cubic yards. Converting between the two is exactly what the density figure does — order the weight shown and you'll get the volume you measured.

Should I order extra?

A little, yes. Ground is never perfectly flat, gravel compacts as it settles, and you'll lose some to spillage. Adding about 10% avoids coming up just short.

How deep should I lay the material?

As a guide, use 2–3 inches (5–8 cm) for a path or mulch bed, 4–6 inches (10–15 cm) for a driveway, and 4–6 inches of quality topsoil for a new lawn. Driveways are often built in two layers of different stone over a compacted base.

Why is the weight only an estimate?

Weight depends on the material's density, which varies with type and moisture. Gravel runs about 1.4 US tons per cubic yard when dry, but wet material weighs more, so the figure shown is a close estimate — confirm the exact tonnage with your supplier.

Does the gravel calculator stay private?

Yes. All the math runs in your browser, so the dimensions and material you choose are never uploaded or stored anywhere.

Is it free and mobile-friendly?

Yes. The calculator is free with no sign-up and runs in any modern phone or desktop browser, so you can use it in the yard or at the supplier.