How to use it
- Enter the length in feet.
- Enter the width in feet.
- Enter the depth in inches.
- View the cubic yards, cubic feet, and tons results.
What this calculator does
It converts the dimensions you input—length (ft), width (ft) and depth (in)—into three practical measures: cubic feet, cubic yards, and an approximate tonnage of gravel. Depth is first turned into feet (divide inches by 12), then multiplied by length and width to get cubic feet. Dividing cubic feet by 27 gives cubic yards, the standard unit for bulk deliveries. Finally, each cubic yard is multiplied by 1.3 US tons to estimate weight.
Why it matters
Knowing cubic yards tells you how many truckloads to order; cubic feet helps when you’re budgeting space; tonnage is useful for cost estimates and for checking truck capacity. The results appear instantly so you can adjust dimensions on the fly and avoid costly over‑ordering.
Pro tips
- Add 5‑10% extra for compaction and spillage.
- Round up to the nearest whole cubic yard for ordering simplicity.
- Compare the ton estimate with supplier specs before confirming price.
- Double‑check depth conversion; a common mistake is entering depth in feet instead of inches.
Real-life examples
- A homeowner planning a new patio needs to know how much gravel base to order.
- A landscaper estimating fill for a garden path wants quick weight and volume numbers.
- A DIY‑enthusiast calculating material for a driveway repair to avoid multiple delivery trips.
Case study
Sarah entered a 12 ft × 8 ft area with a 4‑inch depth. The calculator returned 11.9 cubic yards (≈15.5 tons). She ordered 12 cubic yards, saving a delivery and staying within budget.