Cubic Yards to Tons Calculator

A cubic yards to tons calculator converts a bulk material's volume into weight. It multiplies cubic yards by the material's density in tons per cubic yard. At a density of 1.4 tons per cubic yard, 5 cubic yards weigh 7 tons, so check the density with your supplier.

Last reviewed September 2026Method & sources Report an error

Weight

7.00 tons

Breakdown
Weight	7.00 tons

How to Calculate Cubic Yards to Tons

Weight is simply volume times density: `tons = cubic yards × density (tons per cubic yard)`. Density is the key variable, since it's not a universal constant. It varies substantially by material (mulch is far lighter than gravel, which is lighter than concrete). It also varies within a material by moisture content and compaction, which is why this calculator keeps density as a direct, adjustable input rather than a fixed number.

Example: 5 cubic yards at 1.4 tons/cu yd (a general landscape gravel planning d

5 cubic yards at 1.4 tons/cu yd (a general landscape gravel planning density): Weight: 5 × 1.4 = 7 tons The same 5 cubic yards of mulch at a lighter 0.5 tons/cu yd density instead: 5 × 0.5 = 2.5 tons, which is less than half the weight of the gravel for the same volume.

What Is Cubic Yards to Tons?

A cubic yards to tons calculator converts a bulk material's volume into its weight, given a density figure. It is useful because materials like mulch, soil, gravel, sand, and concrete are all priced and delivered by weight (tons). It is usually easier to picture and plan a project's needs in volume (cubic yards) first. Each individual material calculator on this site (Mulch, Gravel, Soil, Sand, and others) already includes this exact conversion with a density appropriate to that material. This is the general-purpose version for any material or density you specify directly.

Cubic Yards to Tons: Pros and Cons

Pros

Works for any material by keeping density fully adjustable, rather than assuming one specific material
Includes a quick-reference range of common material densities as a starting point
Complements this site's individual material calculators, which already build this same conversion in with a material-appropriate default density

Cons

Doesn't know your specific material's density. Check with your supplier for their product's tested density if precision matters, since it varies even within one material category
Doesn't add a waste allowance. See a specific material calculator (Gravel, Mulch, Soil) for volume estimates that include one
A material's density can change with moisture content (wet vs. dry) or compaction, so a delivered load's actual weight may differ somewhat from a calculation using a general planning density

Cubic Yards to Tons: What a Pro Checks

Check with your supplier for their specific product's tested density instead of relying on a general planning range. Density varies meaningfully even within one material category.
Account for moisture and compaction before you order. A wet load of soil, sand, or mulch can weigh noticeably more than the same material dry, even though the volume figure stays the same.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I convert cubic yards to tons?

Multiply cubic yards by the material's density in tons per cubic yard. 5 cubic yards of a material at 1.4 tons/cu yd density weighs 7 tons.

What is the density of gravel, mulch, and other common materials?

It varies: mulch is roughly 0.4-0.8 tons/cu yd, topsoil about 1.0-1.3, sand about 1.3-1.7, gravel about 1.2-1.8, and concrete about 2.0-2.2 tons/cu yd. These are general planning ranges. Check your specific supplier's product for a more precise figure.

Why do materials with the same volume weigh different amounts?

Because density (how tightly packed the material's particles are, and how much water they hold) varies by material. A cubic yard of light, airy mulch weighs far less than a cubic yard of dense, compacted gravel or concrete, even though they take up the same space.

Why does this matter for ordering material?

Most bulk material suppliers price and deliver by weight (tons), not volume, since that's what a delivery truck's scale actually measures. Knowing the expected tons for your project's volume helps you get an accurate quote and avoid over- or under-ordering.

Does moisture affect a material's weight?

Yes, sometimes significantly. Wet soil, sand, or mulch can weigh noticeably more than the same material dry, since water adds weight without adding much volume. A supplier's stated density is usually for a typical moisture condition, but actual delivered weight can vary.

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