How to use this asphalt calculator
Calculate asphalt tonnage and preliminary material cost. Measure the longest and widest sides in feet and the material depth in inches. The tool estimates cubic yards and converts to short tons using the density you enter. Apply an allowance for uneven ground, compaction, or spillage as appropriate to the material.
Important assumptions
Asphalt is sold by weight. Bulk density varies with mix and compaction; we use a planning default of 2.0 short tons per cubic yard, adjustable on this page.
Formula used
Volume (cubic yards) = length (ft) × width (ft) × depth (in) ÷ 324. Then multiply by (1 + your additional allowance as a decimal). Estimated US short tons = cubic yards × your density in US short tons per cubic yard.
For bulk material, enter price per yard or ton as labelled. The calculator adds any delivery fee entered, but does not automatically include tax, labor, permits or disposal.
Common project planning mistakes
- Confusing cubic yards of volume with tons of weight.
- Ordering by loose volume when your specifications refer to compacted depth.
- Assuming one dump truck can legally transport every material at the same payload.
- Using a national average price instead of requesting a local supplier quote.
Disclaimer: These estimates are for planning only and do not replace engineering specifications or quotes.
Example asphalt quantities
These examples use rectangular measurements with no extra allowance. The weight column uses an illustrative density; replace it with your supplier’s figure.
| Project size | Depth | Cubic yards | Weight at 2 US tons/yd³ |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10 × 10 ft | 2 in | 0.62 | 1.23 US tons |
| 20 × 10 ft | 3 in | 1.85 | 3.70 US tons |
| 40 × 12 ft | 4 in | 5.93 | 11.85 US tons |
Common questions
How do I calculate asphalt tons?
Find volume in cubic yards using length in feet × width in feet × thickness in inches ÷ 324. Multiply by the supplier’s US tons per cubic yard. The editable 2.0 default is an estimating assumption, not a mix-specific certified density.
Should I enter loose or compacted thickness?
Use the thickness basis agreed with your paving supplier or contractor. Installed compacted thickness and loose ordering volume are different. The allowance field is a planning adjustment and does not calculate compaction from a laboratory mix design.
Does the price include a complete paved driveway?
No. It covers estimated material quantity times your per-ton price plus your fixed charge. Excavation, base preparation, equipment, crew labor, mobilization and taxes are excluded unless you explicitly incorporate them into the fixed charge.
Understand cubic yards, US tons and supplier conversion factors →