Soil Volume (m³) to Tons Converter
Calculate the weight of excavated soil, sand, or gravel for logistics and disposal. Features a material database with density adjustments for loose, bank, and compacted states.
About
Estimating the weight of earthworks is a fundamental step in construction logistics. Dump trucks and landfills charge by weight (tonnage), yet excavation is measured by volume (cubic meters). A miscalculation here leads to overloaded vehicles, safety violations, or unexpected disposal fees. The relationship between volume and weight is defined by the material's density, which fluctuates significantly based on moisture content and compaction.
This tool accounts for the state of the material: Bank (undisturbed), Loose (excavated/swelled), or Compacted (after structural filling). Using accurate density values prevents logistical bottlenecks and ensures precise budgeting for haulage.
Formulas
The weight calculation is a linear function of volume and density. The critical factor is selecting the density (ρ) corresponding to the material's current state.
If you are converting from Bank Volume to Loose Volume (for transport), the Swell Factor is implicitly handled by the lower density of the Loose state.
Reference Data
| Material Type | Loose Density (kg/m3) | Bank Density (kg/m3) | Compacted Density (kg/m3) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Topsoil, dry | 1000 | 1200 | 1350 |
| Topsoil, wet | 1200 | 1400 | 1600 |
| Sand, dry | 1400 | 1600 | 1750 |
| Sand, wet | 1800 | 1950 | 2100 |
| Clay, dry | 1100 | 1400 | 1600 |
| Clay, wet | 1500 | 1750 | 2000 |
| Gravel, dry | 1500 | 1600 | 1900 |
| Gravel, wet | 2000 | 2100 | 2200 |
| Crushed Stone | 1450 | 1600 | 2000 |
| Earth, loam | 1250 | 1500 | 1800 |