Cubic yards to tons calculator
Convert between cubic yards and tons for asphalt, gravel, sand, topsoil, and concrete. Pick the material, enter an amount, and see the result in tons, tonnes, and cubic metres.
Tons per cubic yard by material
Typical figures. Real products vary with moisture, mix, and how tightly the material is packed.
| Material | Tons per cubic yard | Pounds per cubic yard | Cubic yards per ton |
|---|---|---|---|
| Asphalt (compacted hot mix) | 1.96 | 3,915 | 0.51 |
| Gravel or crushed stone (typical) | 1.42 | 2,835 | 0.71 |
| Crusher run or dense-graded base | 1.53 | 3,051 | 0.66 |
| Typical sand | 1.35 | 2,700 | 0.74 |
| Dry sand | 1.40 | 2,808 | 0.71 |
| Damp sand | 1.61 | 3,213 | 0.62 |
| Typical topsoil | 1.11 | 2,214 | 0.90 |
| Dry, loose topsoil | 1.00 | 1,998 | 1.00 |
| Wet or heavy topsoil | 1.35 | 2,700 | 0.74 |
| Concrete (wet mix) | 2.00 | 3,996 | 0.50 |
Common questions
How many tons are in a cubic yard?
It depends on the material. Typical gravel or crushed stone is about 1.42 tons per cubic yard, sand about 1.35, and compacted asphalt about 1.96. See the table for each material.
How do I convert cubic yards to tons?
Multiply cubic yards by the material's tons per cubic yard. To go the other way, divide tons by the same figure.
Why do different websites give different numbers?
Density depends on the exact product, its moisture, and how loosely or tightly it is packed. Published figures for the same material often differ by 5 to 15 percent. Ask your supplier for the number they use.
Should I order by the ton or by the yard?
Quarries often price crushed stone and gravel by the ton, and soil and mulch by the cubic yard. Compare suppliers using the same unit, and ask what moisture they assume.
Why is mulch not listed?
Mulch weight varies so much with type and moisture that a single figure would mislead. Mulch is almost always sold by volume, so use the mulch calculator for yards and bags.