Convert cubic yards to tons

Real‑time, unit‑aware conversion with material presets.

Decimals:

Material

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Preset values are typical averages; moisture & compaction can change results.

Density

Examples: concrete ≈ 150 lb/ft³; dry sand ≈ 1600 kg/m³; gravel ≈ 1.5 tons/yd³.

Volume

Weight

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How cubic yards → tons works

The calculator converts your volume to cubic yards, multiplies by the material density in tons per cubic yard (t/yd³), and outputs the weight in your chosen unit. Presets are provided for common landscaping & construction materials; choose “Other” to enter a custom density in t/yd³, lb/ft³, or kg/m³.

How to use the yd³ → tons calculator

Select a material (or “Other” for custom density).
Enter the volume and unit (yd³, ft³, or m³).
Pick your desired weight unit (tons US, metric tons, lb, or kg).
Adjust “Decimals” for display precision (default 2).

Formula

weight(tons) = volume(yd³) × density(t/yd³). If your density is in lb/ft³, first convert density to t/yd³ using lb/ft³ × 27 ÷ 2000. For kg/m³, use kg/m³ × 0.0008427775.

Info & common questions

How do I convert cubic yards to tons?

Multiply the number of cubic yards by the material’s density in tons per cubic yard. Example: 4 yd³ of gravel at 1.5 t/yd³ → 6 tons.

How many tons of topsoil in a cubic yard?

Typical loose topsoil: ~1.2 t/yd³. Wet/compacted: ~1.3 t/yd³. Always check moisture content if accuracy matters.

Cubic yards to tons for common materials

Material	Approx. tons per yd³	Notes
Mulch (bark)	0.4	Varies by species and moisture
Topsoil (loose)	1.2	Moisture raises the value
Topsoil (compacted)	1.3	Heavier when wet
Sand (dry)	1.3	Fine/washed varies
Sand (wet)	1.6	Water content adds weight
Gravel (3/4")	1.5	Stone type affects density
Crushed limestone	1.5	Common road base material
Asphalt (hot mix)	2.0	Mix design varies slightly
Concrete	2.0	≈150 lb/ft³ → ~2.03 t/yd³

Materials for cubic yards to tons conversion

Common choices include: topsoil, fill dirt, mulch/bark, sand (dry/wet), pea gravel or crushed stone, crushed limestone, asphalt, and concrete. If you don’t see your material, choose Other and enter the density your supplier provides.

FAQs

Can I convert tons back to cubic yards?

Yes. Enter your weight and choose a material; the calculator will solve for volume automatically.

Does it support metric units?

Yes. Use kg/m³ for density and pick metric tons (t) or kilograms in the weight unit menu.

Why do suppliers give different numbers?

Bulk materials vary with moisture, gradation, and compaction. Treat presets as estimates and use supplier values for ordering.