How to calculate it yourself
Tons needed = cubic yards × weight per yard. For most projects, multiply yards by 1.4 to get tons. Suppliers cap dump truck loads around 12–15 tons.
Common scenarios
10×40 ft driveway × 4 in deep
4.9 yd³ × 1.4 = 6.9 tons. One small dump-truck delivery (10 tons) fits with leftover for a top-up next year.
20×20 patio base × 4 in deep
4.9 yd³ × 1.4 = 6.9 tons of crusher-run base. Plus another 1 yd³ of polymeric or paver sand on top.
French drain — 100 ft × 12 in × 18 in
5.6 yd³ × 1.3 (pea gravel) = 7.3 tons. Round up to 8 tons to allow for drain pipe displacement.