Aggregate Cubic Meter Calculator
Convert aggregate between cubic metres and tonnes using metric bulk densities — ideal for UK, EU, and metric projects.
Quick Answer
To convert cubic metres to tonnes, multiply by the material's density in tonnes per m³ — about 1.66 for gravel, 1.78 for crushed stone, 1.9 for sand. So 3 m³ of gravel ≈ 5 tonnes. Divide to go from tonnes back to m³.
Aggregate Cubic Meter Calculator Guide
The aggregate cubic meter calculator converts aggregate between cubic metres (m³) and tonnes using metric bulk densities. It is built for UK, Irish, EU, and other metric projects where merchants sell by the tonne or the bulk bag but plans are drawn in metres. Enter a volume or a weight and it gives you the other, along with a reference chart for common materials.
In metric terms the formula is tonnes = cubic metres × density (in tonnes per m³). Aggregate typically falls between about 1.3 and 1.9 tonnes per cubic metre. The table shows the densities used here — handy for translating a delivery quoted in tonnes into the volume it will actually fill.
Aggregate bulk density (metric tonnes per cubic metre):
| Material | Density (t/m³) | 1 m³ weighs | 1 tonne = |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sand | 1.90 | 1.90 t | 0.53 m³ |
| Crushed stone | 1.78 | 1.78 t | 0.56 m³ |
| River rock | 1.72 | 1.72 t | 0.58 m³ |
| Gravel | 1.66 | 1.66 t | 0.60 m³ |
| Ballast / hardcore | 1.60 | 1.60 t | 0.62 m³ |
| Pea gravel | 1.60 | 1.60 t | 0.62 m³ |
| Topsoil | 1.31 | 1.31 t | 0.76 m³ |
Cubic Metres to Tonnes Formula
Multiply your volume in cubic metres by the density above. For example, 3 m³ of gravel × 1.66 = about 5 tonnes. To go from tonnes to volume, divide instead: 5 tonnes of gravel ÷ 1.66 ≈ 3 m³. As always, treat the result as a close estimate — real density shifts with moisture, grading, and compaction.
Prefer Imperial Units?
For projects in cubic yards and U.S. tons, use the cubic yards to tons calculator. You can also estimate directly from dimensions with the stone tonnage calculator, and price up metric stone walls with the UK stone wall cost calculator.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many tonnes are in a cubic metre of aggregate?
Most aggregate weighs about 1.5–1.8 tonnes per cubic metre. Gravel is around 1.66 t/m³, crushed stone about 1.78 t/m³, and sand closer to 1.9 t/m³. Lighter topsoil is about 1.3 t/m³.
How do I convert cubic metres to tonnes?
Multiply the cubic metres by the material's density in tonnes per cubic metre. For instance, 4 m³ of crushed stone × 1.78 = about 7.1 tonnes. Enter your numbers above to convert instantly.
How many cubic metres are in a tonne of gravel?
About 0.6 cubic metres, since gravel is roughly 1.66 tonnes per cubic metre. One bulk bag (around 850 kg) therefore holds a little over half a cubic metre of gravel.
What is the density of MOT Type 1 or hardcore?
Compacted MOT Type 1 and hardcore are commonly estimated at about 1.6–2.0 tonnes per cubic metre. This tool uses 1.60 t/m³ as a planning figure; confirm with your supplier for a precise delivery.
How much does 1 cubic metre of gravel weigh?
Roughly 1.66 tonnes (1,660 kg) for typical dry gravel. Wet gravel weighs more because water adds mass, and heavily compacted material is denser still.