Tons vs cubic yards: how material weight and volume relate
Construction materials like sand, topsoil and crushed stone are bought by weight (tons) but your project is measured by volume (cubic yards). Converting between the two comes down to one number: density.
The relationship
Weight (tons) = Volume (cubic yards) × Density (tons per cubic yard)
Density is what makes this conversion different for every material. A cubic yard of sand weighs more than a cubic yard of topsoil, because sand particles pack more densely and topsoil contains organic matter and air pockets.
Typical densities
| Material | Typical density (tons/yd³) |
|---|---|
| Construction sand | 1.3 – 1.5 |
| Topsoil (screened) | 1.0 – 1.2 |
| Crushed stone / gravel | 1.4 – 1.7 |
These are planning figures. Moisture content is the biggest variable — wet material can weigh noticeably more than dry material of the same type. Use your supplier's product-specific density when the order is cost-critical.
Why this matters for ordering
Most suppliers quote bulk material by the ton but most people calculate their project in cubic yards. Getting the density right means you order the right amount instead of running short mid-project or paying for material you don't need.