How it works
Two measurements and a depth are all it takes to know exactly what to order.
Measure the area
Enter the length and width of the area you're covering, in feet.
Set the depth
2–3 inches for a path or base, 4–6 inches for a driveway.
Get yards & tons
See both, so you can order whichever way your supplier sells.
Ordering gravel without over-paying
Gravel is priced two ways depending on the yard: by the cubic yard (volume) or by the ton (weight). This calculator gives you both, because different suppliers quote different ways and you want to compare apples to apples.
The volume is simply length × width × depth. Keep length and width in feet and convert the depth from inches by dividing by 12, then divide by 27 to get cubic yards. To turn that into tons we multiply by the material's density — around 1.4 tons per cubic yard for common gravel and crushed stone. That figure shifts with the exact rock and how wet it is, so if your supplier gives you their density, drop it into the field for a tighter number.
For a driveway, plan on 4–6 inches of total depth, often built up in layers with a coarser base under a finer top. Add about 10% if your ground is soft, since the first load partly settles into the soil.
Frequently asked questions
How much gravel for a 20×10 driveway?
At 3 inches deep, about 1.85 cubic yards (~2.6 tons). For a full 4–6 inch driveway, roughly double to triple that.
How many tons in a cubic yard of gravel?
About 1.4 tons for typical gravel and crushed stone. Heavier stone runs a little more.
How deep should the gravel be?
2–3 inches for paths and patio bases; 4–6 inches for driveways, usually in layers.
Should I add extra?
Yes — add about 10% for soft ground and settling, and to fully cover the edges.
More material calculators
Estimates are for planning only and assume an average material density. Confirm quantities and density with your supplier before ordering.