Gravel Calculator
Calculate how much gravel or crushed stone you need in cubic yards and tons.
The Formula
Weight (tons) = Volume (yd³) × 1.4
(approx for standard gravel)
= 30 × 10 × 4 / 324 = 3.7 yd³
Weight ≈ 3.7 × 1.4 = 5.2 tons
How to Calculate Gravel Quantity
Gravel and crushed stone are sold by the cubic yard for smaller quantities and by the ton for larger orders. To find cubic yards: multiply length by width by depth (all in feet) then divide by 27. Since depth for gravel is usually given in inches, use this shortcut: (Length x Width x Depth in inches) divided by 324 equals cubic yards. To convert cubic yards to tons, multiply by the material's weight per cubic yard — pea gravel weighs about 1.4 tons per cubic yard, crushed limestone about 1.5 tons per cubic yard, and decomposed granite about 1.35 tons per cubic yard.
Choosing the Right Gravel for Your Project
Not all gravel is the same. For driveways, angular crushed stone (like #57 stone or crusher run) compacts well and stays in place better than round pea gravel, which can shift and scatter. Pea gravel is ideal for walkways and decorative areas where its smooth round shape is an advantage. Decomposed granite compacts almost like pavement and works well for paths and patios. River rock is large and decorative, suitable for drainage beds and borders. For a solid driveway base, crusher run (a mix of crushed stone and dust) is the best compacting material available.
Driveway Gravel Basics
A proper gravel driveway typically uses multiple layers. The base layer (4–6 inches of large crushed stone, #3 or #4 stone) provides drainage and stability. The middle layer (4 inches of #57 stone) fills gaps. The top surface layer (2 inches of pea gravel, #57 stone, or decomposed granite) provides the finished appearance. Total depth is typically 8–12 inches for a new driveway on stable soil.
Frequently Asked Questions
How deep should gravel be for a driveway?
A properly built gravel driveway typically has 8–12 inches of total depth: 4–6 inches of compacted base stone at the bottom, followed by 2–4 inches of smaller surface stone on top. New driveways on poor soil may need additional depth or a geotextile fabric base. Maintenance involves adding 1–2 inches of surface material every few years as gravel displaces or sinks.
How many tons of gravel are in a dump truck?
A standard tandem dump truck carries 12–14 tons of gravel per load. A tri-axle truck can carry up to 18–20 tons. Smaller single-axle trucks carry 6–10 tons. Most gravel suppliers have a minimum delivery order — often 5–10 tons — so plan your project accordingly. Splitting a load with a neighbor can save on delivery minimums.
What is the difference between gravel and crushed stone?
Gravel is naturally occurring rounded stone worn smooth by water — pea gravel and river rock are examples. Crushed stone is made by mechanically breaking quarried rock into angular pieces — limestone, granite, and trap rock are common sources. Crushed stone compacts better and stays in place more effectively than rounded gravel, making it the preferred choice for driveways and structural applications. Rounded gravel is better for drainage, decorative uses, and areas where you want a softer aesthetic.
How do I keep gravel in place on a driveway?
Angular crushed stone naturally interlocks and stays in place better than round gravel. Edging (metal, plastic, or concrete landscape edging) along the sides prevents migration to lawn areas. A geotextile fabric base separates the gravel from soil and prevents it from sinking over time. Occasional raking and redistribution of displaced material is normal maintenance for any gravel surface.
Can I put gravel directly on soil?
You can, but a geotextile landscape fabric between the soil and gravel significantly improves performance. Without fabric, gravel gradually sinks into soft soil, particularly in wet conditions, and weeds can push through more easily. For driveways and permanent installations, fabric is strongly recommended. For temporary or decorative applications, it is less critical.