Cubic Yard to Ton Converter
Convert cubic yards to short tons (and back) for concrete, gravel, sand, soil, and other construction materials using standard bulk density values.
Reviewed October 7, 2026 Runs in your browser — inputs are never stored
Short Tons (US)
1.3500 tons
≈ 1.2247 metric tonnes
Density used: 1.35 short tons/yd³
This tool provides general unit conversions for everyday and educational use. For regulated, legal, or scientific applications, verify conversion factors against the applicable official standard.
About the Cubic Yard to Ton Converter
The cubic yard to ton converter estimates the weight of bulk materials such as concrete, gravel, sand, topsoil, mulch and asphalt. Volume and weight are linked by bulk density, which varies widely between materials and with moisture: a cubic yard of wet sand is far heavier than a cubic yard of mulch. Results are in US short tons (2,000 lb) and are estimates, since real densities vary by supplier.
How to use it
- 1Choose cubic yards → tons or tons → cubic yards.
- 2Enter the amount and select the material.
- 3Read the estimated weight or volume.
- 4Copy, share or print the result with the buttons below it.
Worked example
dry gravel weighs about 1.35 short tons per cubic yard, so 10 cubic yards weigh roughly 13.5 tons.
How it works
Formula
Tons = Cubic Yards × Bulk Density (tons/yd³)
Why density matters
Different materials have very different bulk densities. Wet sand weighs about 1,755 kg/m³ while mulch weighs only ~340 kg/m³. Always select the correct material for accurate results.
Common use cases
- Ordering gravel or topsoil by the ton
- Checking truck load limits
- Estimating material costs for landscaping
Frequently asked questions
A:The primary result is in US short tons (2,000 lb). Metric tonnes are shown as a secondary conversion (1 short ton = 0.9072 metric tonnes).
A:Bulk densities are typical values; actual density varies with moisture content, compaction, and source. Use material-specific data for critical applications.
Reviewed for accuracy · Last updated October 7, 2026
Conversion factors are based on internationally defined SI units and standard metric/imperial equivalence tables.
CalcWisee Editorial Team
Calculator development and formula review
CalcWisee is an independent site founded by Ayman. Every calculator is built from a published formula or official definition, tested against hand-worked examples before it goes live, and corrected promptly when a reader reports an issue to ayman@calcwisee.com.
Expertise: Financial mathematics, Health and fitness formulas, Applied mathematics, Unit conversion standards
References & sources
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