Driveway gravel chart at 4 inches deep
These are net volumes before compaction, uneven grade or extra material. Approximate tons use 1.4 tons per cubic yard only as a planning example.
| Driveway size | Cubic yards | Approx. tons |
|---|---|---|
| 20 × 12 ft | 2.96 | 4.15 |
| 30 × 12 ft | 4.44 | 6.22 |
| 40 × 12 ft | 5.93 | 8.30 |
| 50 × 12 ft | 7.41 | 10.37 |
| 75 × 12 ft | 11.11 | 15.56 |
| 100 × 12 ft | 14.81 | 20.74 |
How to calculate gravel for a driveway
Cubic yards = length (ft) × width (ft) × depth (in) ÷ 12 ÷ 27. For example, a 40 × 12 ft driveway layer at 4 in deep is about 5.93 yd³ net, or roughly 8.30 tons at the example 1.4-ton density.
Width and depth change the order quickly
| Size | 2 in deep | 4 in deep | 6 in deep |
|---|---|---|---|
| 40 × 10 ft | 2.47 yd³ | 4.94 yd³ | 7.41 yd³ |
| 40 × 12 ft | 2.96 yd³ | 5.93 yd³ | 8.89 yd³ |
| 40 × 16 ft | 3.95 yd³ | 7.90 yd³ | 11.85 yd³ |
| 40 × 20 ft | 4.94 yd³ | 9.88 yd³ | 14.81 yd³ |
From cubic yards to tons
Do not use one universal gravel weight for a final purchase. Aggregate type, gradation, moisture and packing change bulk density. If your supplier sells by weight, use the Cubic Yards to Tons Gravel Calculator and enter the supplier's density.
Driveway gravel vs. paver base
This page estimates a measured gravel layer. If you are building a paver driveway and need the compacted aggregate base beneath pavers, use the Paver Base Calculator. Verify the required section, drainage and compaction for your site before buying material.
Frequently asked questions
How much gravel do I need for a driveway?
Multiply driveway length by width, multiply by the planned gravel depth in feet, then divide cubic feet by 27 for cubic yards. Add extra material for compaction and grade before ordering.
How many tons of gravel do I need for a driveway?
Convert the calculated cubic yards using the bulk density for the exact aggregate from your supplier. The examples here use 1.4 tons per cubic yard only as a rough planning value.
What gravel depth should I use for a driveway?
Driveway layer thickness depends on soil, traffic, aggregate gradation and whether you are estimating one layer or the full section. Use the depth specified for the layer you are ordering rather than treating a generic depth as a design recommendation.