Gravel Driveway Calculator (Tons & Yards)
Quarries sell by the ton and many landscape yards sell by the cubic yard. This calculator gives both, using a typical density for each stone and an allowance for compaction.
Formula
Cu yd = L × W × depth (in) ÷ 12 ÷ 27 × (1 + compaction %). Tons = cu yd × density. Densities are typical supplier averages: crushed stone and pea gravel ≈ 1.4 t/yd³, crusher run ≈ 1.5, river rock ≈ 1.35. Ask your quarry for its own conversion, since moisture and gradation change it.
Typical driveway quantities
| Driveway | Top layer: #57 crushed, 4 in | Base: crusher run, 6 in |
|---|---|---|
| 50 × 10 ft | 6.79 yd³ / 9.51 t | 10.65 yd³ / 15.97 t |
| 100 × 10 ft | 13.58 yd³ / 19.01 t | 21.3 yd³ / 31.94 t |
| 100 × 12 ft | 16.3 yd³ / 22.81 t | 25.56 yd³ / 38.33 t |
| 150 × 12 ft | 24.44 yd³ / 34.22 t | 38.33 yd³ / 57.5 t |
| 200 × 12 ft | 32.59 yd³ / 45.63 t | 51.11 yd³ / 76.67 t |
Building a driveway that lasts
- Layer it: 4–6 in of large base stone (#3 or crusher run), 4 in of #57, then an optional 2 in top dressing.
- Compact each layer and crown the center about ¼ in per foot so water sheds off.
- Geotextile fabric over soft clay keeps stone from sinking into the mud.
- A tri-axle truck carries about 18–22 tons, and a single-axle about 5–8. Order in full loads when you can.
Frequently asked questions
How many tons of gravel for a 100 ft driveway?
A 100 × 12 ft driveway at 4 in deep is 14.8 yd³ loose. With 10% compaction that's about 16.3 yd³, or about 22.8 tons of #57 crushed stone.
How many tons in a yard of gravel?
Typically 1.3–1.5 tons. Crushed stone is about 1.4 and crusher run about 1.5.
How deep should a gravel driveway be?
8–12 in total over a compacted subgrade (base plus top layers). A refresh layer is usually 2–4 in.
Last reviewed October 2026 by Jim Frith. These are planning estimates; confirm quantities with your supplier and follow local codes.