How Much Gravel Do I Need? A Simple Guide to Estimating Your Order

UB Trucking

6 hours ago

2 min read

Planning a driveway, a work pad or a drainage trench and wondering how much gravel to order? Getting the amount right means you are not stuck with a pile you do not need, or waiting on a second delivery because you came up short. Here is a simple way to estimate it before you call.

The basic formula: cubic yards

Bulk aggregate is usually ordered by volume (cubic yards) or by weight (tons). To estimate volume, measure the length and width of the area in feet, then decide how deep the material will be in inches.

Multiply length by width to get square feet.
Multiply by the depth in feet (divide inches by 12).
Divide the result by 27 to get cubic yards.

For example, an area that is 20 feet long and 10 feet wide, spread 4 inches deep, is 20 x 10 x (4 / 12) = about 66.7 cubic feet, which is roughly 2.5 cubic yards.

Converting to tons

Many suppliers sell by the ton. How much a cubic yard weighs depends on the material, its size and how wet it is, so there is no single number that works for everything. Ask your supplier for the weight per cubic yard of the specific material you are ordering, then convert your estimate.

Add a little extra

Material settles and compacts once it is spread, especially stone that packs down firmly. Most people add a modest cushion on top of their estimate so the finished surface is not thin in spots. Your contractor can tell you how much extra makes sense for your project.

Questions to settle before delivery

What material and size do you need? Our guide to choosing between gravel, sand, limestone and topsoil can help.
Where will the truck unload, and is the path clear and safe?
When will your crew be ready to spread the material?

Not sure which material fits your project? Read Gravel, Sand, Limestone or Topsoil: Which Do You Need?. Want to know what happens from the first call to the dump? See How Bulk Aggregate Hauling and Delivery Works.

UB Trucking hauls gravel, sand, limestone and topsoil out of Ellwood City, PA. Learn more on our hauling page or call 724-824-8830 for a quote. One call and we'll haul.

Frequently asked questions

How do I calculate how much gravel I need?

Multiply the length by the width of the area in feet, multiply by the depth in feet, and divide by 27 to get cubic yards. Then ask your supplier for the weight per cubic yard of your material if you need to order by the ton.

Should I order extra gravel?

It is common to add a modest cushion because material settles and compacts after it is spread. Your contractor or supplier can suggest how much extra fits your job.

Does UB Trucking deliver gravel?

Yes. UB Trucking hauls and delivers gravel, sand, limestone and topsoil. Call 724-824-8830 for a quote.