Gravel guide
Gravel Calculator Formula
Gravel is calculated by finding the volume of the area and then converting that volume into cubic yards or tons.
Volume Formula
Volume = Length × Width × Depth
Convert Cubic Feet to Cubic Yards
Cubic yards = Cubic feet ÷ 27
Convert Cubic Yards to Tons
Tons = Cubic yards × Density
Gravel density varies by material type and moisture, but many gravel products are around 1.3 to 1.7 tons per cubic yard.
Example Calculation
A 30 ft by 12 ft area at 4 inches deep has a depth of 0.333 feet.
30 × 12 × 0.333 = 120 ft³
120 ÷ 27 = 4.44 yd³
4.44 × 1.4 = 6.22 tons
Common Gravel Calculation Mistakes
- Forgetting to convert inches to feet
- Not adding waste for compaction or uneven ground
- Using the wrong gravel density
- Ignoring delivery minimums or supplier rounding
Skip the manual math
Use the gravel calculator to calculate yards, tons, waste, and cost.
Use Calculator →