Quick Answer by Truck Size
| Truck Type | Capacity | Weight Capacity | Total Cost (incl. delivery) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single-axle dump truck | 5–7 yd³ | 7–10 tons | $200–$450 |
| Tandem axle dump truck | 10–12 yd³ | 13–16 tons | $350–$650 |
| Tri-axle dump truck | 14–16 yd³ | 18–22 tons | $450–$900 |
| Super dump (quad-axle) | 17–19 yd³ | 22–26 tons | $600–$1,200 |
Cost by Gravel Type
| Gravel Type | Per Yd³ | Tandem Load (11 yd³) | Material Cost Only |
|---|---|---|---|
| Crushed limestone #57 | $15–$30 | $165–$330 | + $150–$250 delivery |
| Pea gravel | $28–$55 | $308–$605 | + $150–$250 delivery |
| River rock (1–3") | $35–$75 | $385–$825 | + $150–$250 delivery |
| Crushed granite | $32–$65 | $352–$715 | + $150–$250 delivery |
💡 Get more quotes — prices vary widely
Gravel prices vary up to 40% between local quarries. Always get 3 quotes. Include: material price per ton or yard, minimum load, and delivery fee. Ask if spreading is included — some suppliers offer it for a small extra fee.
What Affects the Total Cost?
- Distance from quarry: Every extra 10 miles adds $25–$75 to delivery cost
- Access difficulty: Narrow driveways or steep grades may need smaller, more expensive trucks
- Gravel type: Decorative stone costs 2–3× more than base limestone
- Timing: Spring (April–June) is peak season — prices 10–20% higher
- Volume: Second truck of the same gravel on same day often gets 10–15% discount
Calculate Gravel for Your Project
Enter dimensions and depth — get cubic yards, truck count, and total cost estimate.
Open Gravel Calculator →FAQ
How many yards of gravel in a dump truck?
- Single-axle: 5–7 cubic yards
- Tandem: 10–12 cubic yards
- Tri-axle: 14–16 cubic yards
How many tons of gravel in a dump truck?
A tandem truck carries 10–12 yd³ of gravel. At 1.35 tons/yd³ average: 13.5–16.2 tons of crushed stone.
Is it cheaper to buy gravel by the ton or yard?
Always compare total cost. Get quotes in both units: multiply yards × 1.35 to convert to tons for comparison. Suppliers often quote by ton; landscapers by yard.