Gravel is often priced by the ton, cubic yard, or bag, while projects are measured in feet and inches. A useful estimate converts the finished area and depth into volume, then uses the material’s density to approximate weight.
Use the Gravel Calculator to estimate cubic yards, tons, and material cost.
Worked example: a gravel driveway section
Suppose a section is 30 feet long, 12 feet wide, and 4 inches deep. Convert the depth to feet first: 4 ÷ 12 = 0.333 feet. The compacted volume is 30 × 12 × 0.333, or about 120 cubic feet. Divide by 27 to get 4.44 cubic yards. Adding a 10% allowance gives about 4.89 cubic yards, which would normally be rounded to the supplier’s available delivery quantity.
Do not convert yards to tons with a universal number. Weight varies with stone type, particle size, moisture, and compaction. Use the density or tons-per-yard figure supplied by the quarry or landscape yard that will fill the order.
Inputs to confirm before ordering
- Measure the actual length and width; split irregular areas into rectangles.
- Choose the finished compacted depth, not just the loose delivery depth.
- Confirm whether the project also needs a separate base or leveling layer.
- Ask the supplier for material density, minimum delivery, and truck capacity.
- Allow for compaction, grading corrections, spillage, and inaccessible edges.
What this estimate does not include
The calculator estimates material quantity and an optional material cost. It does not design drainage, select a subgrade, calculate geotextile or edging, or determine whether the surface can support vehicles. Delivery charges, equipment rental, excavation, disposal, and labor are separate. Confirm truck access and a safe dumping location before delivery.
Reviewed September 21, 2026. Read how our calculators work for the formulas, rounding rules, assumptions, and verification process used across DIY Cost Tools.
Measure the area
Multiply length by width for a rectangle. Divide irregular areas into manageable rectangles, triangles, or circles and add the results. For paths that change width, measure several widths and use a reasonable average or calculate each section separately.
Choose finished depth
The finished gravel depth depends on the use, aggregate size, base condition, drainage, load, and local practice. A decorative garden path has different requirements from a driveway carrying vehicles. If the project needs multiple layers, calculate the compacted base and surface stone separately because their depths and materials differ.
Convert to cubic yards
Convert depth in inches to feet by dividing by 12. Multiply area in square feet by depth in feet to get cubic feet, then divide by 27 to get cubic yards. Add a project allowance for grade variation, compaction, and spillage.
Estimate weight carefully
Gravel density varies with stone type, size distribution, moisture, and compaction. Use a supplier-provided weight per cubic yard when available. A generic density is suitable only for preliminary budgeting. The supplier can convert the final cubic-yard estimate to tons for the product being delivered.
Plan for compaction
Loose delivered material may settle after spreading and compacting. Ask whether the supplier’s coverage guidance refers to loose or compacted depth. Prepare and compact the subgrade and base in appropriate layers instead of placing all material at once.
Delivery and access checklist
- Confirm the truck can enter, turn, unload, and leave safely.
- Identify overhead wires, branches, soft ground, slopes, and septic areas.
- Ask about minimum orders, split loads, delivery fees, and dump placement.
- Protect pavement when the supplier recommends it.
- Arrange equipment and labor before the delivery arrives.
Common mistakes
Do not confuse square yards with cubic yards. Avoid estimating tons without checking the actual aggregate density. Account for existing grade and excavation, and do not assume decorative gravel can replace a properly designed load-bearing base.
Verify your quantity, material specification, and delivery plan with the quarry, landscape supplier, or contractor before ordering.
Continue planning this project
The correct gravel quantity depends on whether the material serves as a surface, a compacted base, or drainage stone.