Question 1

How do I calculate gravel weight from volume?

Accepted Answer

Multiply the volume in cubic meters (m³) by the material's bulk density in tonnes per cubic meter (t/m³). For example, 10 m³ of 20mm gravel at 1.8 t/m³ weighs 18 tonnes (18,000 kg). Each aggregate type has a different density — pea gravel is lighter at 1.6 t/m³ while road base is denser at 2.0 t/m³.

Question 2

How much does a cubic meter of gravel weigh?

Accepted Answer

A cubic meter of gravel typically weighs 1,400 to 2,000 kg (1.4 to 2.0 tonnes) depending on the material. Pea gravel is about 1,600 kg/m³, 20mm crushed gravel 1,800 kg/m³, and road base approximately 2,000 kg/m³. Scoria (volcanic gravel) is much lighter at about 800 kg/m³.

Question 3

What is the difference between volume and weight when ordering gravel?

Accepted Answer

Suppliers sell gravel by both cubic meters (m³) and tonnes. Volume is easier to visualize when you know the area and depth you're filling. Weight is more precise since aggregate settles during transport. Most suppliers in Australia quote by the tonne — this calculator converts your volume to tonnes so you can order accurately.

Question 4

Why do different gravel types weigh differently?

Accepted Answer

Each aggregate type has a different particle density and void ratio — the space between particles. Denser materials like crusher run (2.05 t/m³) pack tightly with few voids. Lighter materials like scoria (0.8 t/m³) are porous volcanic rock with many internal air pockets. Even the same material varies by moisture content — wet gravel is heavier than dry.

Question 5

How do I convert tonnes to kg or lbs?

Accepted Answer

1 metric tonne = 1,000 kg. 1 tonne = 2,204.62 lbs. To convert: multiply tonnes by 1,000 for kg, or multiply tonnes by 2,204.62 for lbs. The calculator handles these conversions automatically with the kg/lbs toggle.

Question 6

Should I order gravel by volume or weight?

Accepted Answer

It depends on how your supplier quotes prices and what information you have. If you know your area and depth, start with volume. If your supplier charges per tonne, use the weight result to calculate your order cost. For large projects, weight is more accurate because gravel compacts in transit. For small DIY projects, volume is easier to work with.

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