How Much Does a Yard of Material Weigh?
A cubic yard of topsoil weighs roughly 2,200 lb (about 1.1 tons), gravel about 2,800 lb (1.4 tons), sand about 2,700 lb (1.35 tons), and river rock about 2,800 lb. These are approximate: weight rises with moisture and with finer, denser material, so treat them as planning ranges.
Typical weights per cubic yard
Topsoil: about 2,000 to 2,700 lb (1.0 to 1.35 tons). Fill dirt: about 2,000 to 3,000 lb (1.0 to 1.5 tons). Gravel: about 2,400 to 2,900 lb (1.25 to 1.7 tons). Sand: about 2,200 to 2,900 lb (1.1 to 1.45 tons).
Wet material weighs noticeably more than dry, and crushed stone weighs more than rounded decorative rock of the same volume.
Why it matters
Weight decides what your vehicle or trailer can carry and how suppliers bill bulk orders (often by the ton). A half-ton pickup can legally carry only a fraction of a cubic yard of wet soil.
Each material calculator on this site shows an estimated weight in tons so you can plan hauling and ordering.
FAQ
How much does a yard of topsoil weigh?
Roughly 2,000 to 2,700 pounds (about 1 to 1.35 tons), heavier when wet.
How much does a yard of gravel weigh?
Roughly 2,400 to 2,900 pounds (about 1.25 to 1.7 tons), depending on stone type and size.
Can my pickup carry a cubic yard?
Often not safely. A cubic yard of wet soil or gravel can exceed a half-ton truck's payload. Check your vehicle's rating and split heavy loads.