How to use this round bale weight calculator
- Pick a common bale size such as 4 × 5, 5 × 5, or 5 × 6.
- Adjust the diameter and width if your bales measure differently.
- Choose a hay density preset or enter a custom pounds-per-cubic-foot estimate.
- Add moisture, bale count, and price per ton to estimate dry matter and total value.
The calculator uses the round bale as a cylinder. That makes it useful for planning hay purchases, estimating storage weight, comparing quoted prices, and checking whether a delivery amount seems realistic.
Common round bale weight ranges
| Bale size | Typical planning range | Notes |
|---|
| 4 × 4 ft | 400–700 lb | Often easier to move with smaller equipment. |
| 4 × 5 ft | 700–1,000 lb | Common horse and small-farm hay size. |
| 5 × 5 ft | 900–1,300 lb | Weight depends heavily on density and crop. |
| 5 × 6 ft | 1,300–1,800+ lb | Large dense bales may require heavier handling equipment. |
Round bale weight FAQ
Is a 4x5 bale always lighter than a 5x5 bale?
Usually, but not always by the same amount. A larger diameter adds a lot of volume because cylinder area grows with radius squared, but density, crop type, and moisture still change the final weight.
Should I buy hay by the bale or by the ton?
Buying by the ton makes comparisons cleaner because bale sizes and densities vary. If hay is sold by the bale, use estimated or scale weight to compare the true cost per ton.
Can this replace a scale weight?
No. This is a planning estimate. For feed rations, hauling limits, trailer loading, and commercial buying, actual scale weights are better.