Volume before you call the pit
Landscape and civil crews order by the cubic metre or tonne. This calculator multiplies length × width × depth, adds waste for compaction and uneven grade, then estimates tonnes using a bulk density you can change for the product.
Canadian pits and landscape yards usually sell by the tonne or cubic metre. Confirm how your supplier measures the load — loose truck measure is not the same as compacted in place.
Waste and compaction
Granular base settles. Ten percent extra is a common start for driveways and patio bases. Soft subgrade, irregular digs, and hand spreading waste more. Always walk the excavation with a tape before the final order.
Density is an estimate
Default 1.6 tonnes per cubic metre is a middle ground for many crushed products. Sand, clear stone, and recycled concrete differ. Ask the yard for bulk density or tonnes per cubic metre for that SKU and adjust the density field.
Frequently asked questions
- Is this gravel calculator free?
- Yes. Free to use, print, and share. Save sheets with an account.
- m³ or tonnes?
- Volume in m³ is the geometry. Tonnes depend on density. Give both to the yard and confirm which they invoice.
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