How do you convert cubic yards to tons?

Multiply cubic yards by 27 to convert to cubic feet, multiply by the material density in lb/ft³, then divide by 2000 to get US short tons. The calculator applies this formula instantly based on your selected density.

Why does yards to tons depend on the material?

Different materials have different densities. One cubic yard of wet sand weighs more than one cubic yard of mulch or gravel, so the tonnage changes with the material you choose.

How many tons is 10 cubic yards?

It depends on the density you select. As a rough guide, many construction aggregates are around 1.3–1.5 tons per cubic yard, so 10 yards is roughly 13–15 tons. The calculator shows an exact value using your chosen density.

Can I use my own density value?

Yes. Choose "Own Density" and enter any density in lb/ft³ or kg/m³. The tool converts internally and gives precise tons, pounds, and metric tonnes based on your input.

Does this calculator use short tons or metric tonnes?

The primary result is in US short tons (2000 lb). Pounds and metric tonnes are also shown so you can compare or use whichever unit your project requires.

Are the preset density values accurate?

Presets are typical bulk density estimates for planning (e.g., wet sand, gravel, mulch). For engineering, compliance, or large orders, confirm the actual density with your supplier and use the custom density option.

Is this calculator suitable for critical structural or safety calculations?

No. This tool is designed for convenient estimates. Always verify material quantities and densities with a qualified engineer or supplier for structural, safety-critical, or contract-sensitive work.

Yards to Tons Calculator

Choose a material or enter your own density, type the cubic yards, and get instant tons, pounds, and metric tonnes.

Decimals

Material (approximations)

Density

Presets fill a typical bulk density. Choose "Own Density" to enter your lab/scale value.

Cubic yards

Enter the volume in cubic yards. The calculator will update all results instantly based on your density.

Result (short tons)

Pounds

Metric tonnes (t)

Calculated from pounds → kilograms → tonnes.

How the Yards to Tons Calculator Works

Select a material. A typical bulk density in lb/ft³ is loaded automatically.
Enter your cubic yards of material.
We use: tons = yards × 27 × density(lb/ft³) ÷ 2000.

Prefer SI units? Switch the density to kg/m³. We convert internally and keep your results consistent.

Cubic Yards to Tons Conversion Table

Based on your current selected density.

Cubic yards	Short tons

Quick Answers

How many yards are in 1 ton?

At your selected density, — yd³ ≈ 1 short ton.

How many tons is 10 yards?

≈ — short tons at the chosen density.

How many tons is 30 yards?

≈ — short tons based on your current density.

Formula reminder

tons = yards × 27 × density(lb/ft³) ÷ 2000 or use kg/m³ if you prefer SI.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many yards are in a ton?

It depends on density. With your current settings, — cubic yards are approximately 1 short ton.

How many tons is 30 yards?

At the selected density, — short tons for 30 cubic yards.

How to convert yards into tons?

Use the formula: tons = yards × 27 × density(lb/ft³) ÷ 2000. This calculator applies it instantly with your chosen density.

Can I trust the preset densities?

Presets are typical bulk values for quick planning (e.g., wet sand, gravel, mulch). For critical projects, confirm with your supplier or weigh a sample and use Own Density.

This tool is for planning and estimation only. Always verify material densities and quantities with your supplier or engineer for construction, logistics, or safety-critical work.