How to use this calculator
- Enter the density in lb/ft³. Pull this from a spec sheet, ASTM test, or a Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS).
- Read tons per yd³. The primary result. Use this to compare to supplier quotes.
- Compare to alternatives. The calculator also gives you lb/yd³ and kg/m³ for cross-checking metric specs.
Formula
Tons per yd³ = (lb/ft³ × 27) ÷ 2,000
Worked example
Crushed limestone at 100 lb/ft³: (100 × 27) ÷ 2,000 = 1.35 tons per cubic yard. A 10-yard truckload weighs 13.5 tons.
Tips for accurate results
- 1 cubic yard = 27 cubic feet, so the conversion factor is constant: multiply pcf by 0.0135 to get tons per yard directly.
- Densities for the same material vary 10–20% with moisture and compaction. The spec value is dry, in-place may be heavier.
- For metric specs in kg/m³, divide by 593.276 to get tons per yard — or use this calculator's metric stat.
- Always verify with the supplier — they know whether their published density is loose, compacted, or wet.