Material Density: Weights & Conversions

Density by Material (Loose)

MaterialLbs/Cubic YardTons/Cubic YardNotes
Topsoil2,000-2,2001.0-1.1Varies by moisture
Clay (loose)2,200-2,4001.1-1.2Heavier than sand
Sand2,600-2,9001.3-1.5Depends on moisture
Gravel2,700-3,0001.4-1.5Limestone based
Rock (crushed)3,000-3,5001.5-1.8Heaviest common material

Load Calculation

Truck weight limit: Most dump trucks: 15-20 tons payload

Example: 15-ton truck ÷ 1.5 tons/cy (gravel) = 10 cubic yards per load

Weight vs Volume

When estimating material movement, remember: heavier materials = fewer cubic yards per truck load.