Gravel calculator
Estimate gravel volume, weight, and cost with an editable bulk density and extra allowance.
Gravel calculator
Estimate loose material volume and weight.
Material estimate only. Confirm pack sizes, minimum orders, local prices, and project requirements before buying. Prices exclude delivery and taxes.
How to use the gravel calculator
- Choose a measurement system and enter the rectangular area’s length, width, and desired depth. Metric depth is in centimetres; imperial depth is in inches.
- Set your extra allowance and replace the sample bulk density with a value appropriate to your material, preferably supplied by the seller.
- Optionally enter the price per metric tonne in metric mode or per US short ton in imperial mode. Select the currency in which that price is quoted.
- Click Calculate gravel. Review volume and estimated weight, and confirm compaction, order increments, and delivery charges with the supplier before purchasing.
Frequently asked questions
Practical answers for this calculator. Select a question to read more.
Why does the calculator need bulk density?
Volume alone cannot tell you weight. Bulk density describes the mass in a given volume, including the spaces between pieces of gravel. The tool multiplies volume including allowance by this density to estimate weight.
Is the default density correct for every type of gravel?
No. The sample 1,600 kg/m³ is a starting value, not a specification for all aggregates. Rock type, particle size, moisture, and how the material is packed affect bulk density. Use your supplier’s value whenever possible.
Does this account for compaction?
Not automatically. The extra allowance is a simple percentage, not a material-specific compaction model. Ask your supplier how much loose material is needed to achieve the desired installed depth. Do not assume that adding 10% guarantees that depth.
What is the difference between a metric tonne and a US short ton?
A metric tonne is 1,000 kg. A US short ton is 2,000 lb, or 907.18474 kg. The calculator uses metric tonnes for metric pricing and US short tons for imperial pricing. Neither should be confused with a UK long ton.
Can I enter a price per cubic yard instead of a price per ton?
Not directly in the current gravel cost field, which expects a weight-based price. For a volume-based quote, use the displayed volume and multiply it by the supplier’s matching price separately. Do not enter a per-yard price into the per-ton field.
For more detail, read our methodology and disclaimer. Found a problem? Contact CalHomeGo.
Calculations run in your browser. Optional currency conversion contacts Frankfurter for rates; your measurements and cost amounts are not sent. Reference rates are not bank quotes.