How do I calculate gravel for a driveway?

Multiply driveway length by width to get square feet, multiply by gravel depth in feet to get cubic feet, then divide by 27 for cubic yards. Add waste or compaction allowance and convert cubic yards to tons using the gravel density.

How deep should gravel be for a driveway?

A refreshed top layer is often 2 to 3 inches deep. A new gravel driveway commonly uses several compacted layers totaling 8 to 12 inches, depending on soil, drainage, vehicle load, and local practice.

How many tons are in a cubic yard of driveway gravel?

Many crushed stone and driveway gravel products are roughly 1.35 to 1.6 tons per cubic yard. The exact number depends on stone type, moisture, gradation, and compaction, so confirm with your gravel supplier when ordering.

Driveway material calculator

Gravel Driveway Calculator

Estimate the gravel tons, cubic yards, truckloads, bags, and material cost for a new driveway layer or a fresh top-up.

Gravel needed 7.82 tons A 40 ft × 10 ft driveway at 4 in deep with 10% overage.

How to use this gravel driveway calculator

Enter the driveway length, width, and gravel depth. The calculator converts the volume into cubic yards and tons, adds your overage allowance, and estimates bulk cost from your price per ton.

For a simple top layer, many homeowners price a 2 to 3 inch refresh. For a new driveway, ask your local supplier or contractor about the right compacted base depth, stone size, and drainage plan for your soil.

Useful gravel driveway tips

Confirm density before ordering. Crushed stone often lands around 1.35–1.6 tons per cubic yard, but products vary.
Add room for compaction and ruts. A 5–15% overage is common for spreading, settling, and uneven areas.
Match the gravel to the job. Crusher run, road base, clean stone, and decorative gravel behave differently.
Plan delivery access. Truckload estimates help you check whether one delivery is enough.

FAQ

What is the formula for driveway gravel?

Use length × width × depth in feet to get cubic feet. Divide by 27 for cubic yards, multiply by density for tons, then add any overage percentage.

Is 2 inches of gravel enough for a driveway?

Two inches can work as a fresh top layer over an existing solid driveway. It is usually not enough for a new driveway base.

Should I order gravel by the ton or by the cubic yard?

Local suppliers may quote either way. This calculator shows both so you can compare quotes and confirm the conversion with the supplier's material density.