Advanced Crusher Run Calculator
Enter the project shape, finished depth, material density, compaction allowance, waste allowance, price, and truck capacity.
Example Data Table
These examples use 1.6 tons per cubic yard with 10% compaction and 5% waste.
| Project | Size | Depth | Loose Cubic Yards | Estimated Tons |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Small parking pad | 18 ft × 20 ft | 4 in | 5.11 cu yd | 8.18 tons |
| Residential driveway | 50 ft × 12 ft | 6 in | 12.78 cu yd | 20.44 tons |
| Round equipment base | 24 ft diameter | 5 in | 8.02 cu yd | 12.83 tons |
| Tapered lane base | 80 ft, 14 ft to 10 ft | 4 in | 13.63 cu yd | 21.81 tons |
Formula Used
Rectangle area: area = length × width
Circle area: area = π × radius²
Tapered area: area = ((start width + end width) ÷ 2) × length
Compacted cubic yards: cubic yards = area × depth ÷ 27
Loose cubic yards: loose yards = compacted yards × (1 + compaction% + waste%)
Tons needed: tons = loose cubic yards × density in tons per cubic yard
The calculator converts all selected units into feet first. It then converts cubic feet into cubic yards. The final tonnage includes compaction and waste allowances before order rounding.
How to Use This Calculator
- Select the project shape.
- Enter length, width, diameter, or tapered widths.
- Choose the correct horizontal unit.
- Enter the finished compacted depth.
- Add density from your quarry or supplier.
- Enter compaction, waste, price, and truck capacity.
- Press Calculate Tons.
- Download the CSV or PDF report when needed.
Crusher Run Planning Guide
Why Tons Matter
Crusher run is often ordered by the ton. Yet many projects start with length, width, and depth. This creates a common planning gap. A calculator helps convert field measurements into usable order quantities. It also helps compare cost, truck loads, and coverage before calling a supplier.
Understanding Material Behavior
Crusher run contains crushed stone and fines. The fines help the layer lock together after compaction. This makes it useful under driveways, sheds, walkways, patios, and parking areas. The loose load usually settles. That is why a compaction allowance is important. A shallow base may need less allowance. A thick structural base may need more.
Density Is Important
Density changes with quarry source, moisture, stone size, and grading. Many jobs use a rough value near 1.5 to 1.7 tons per cubic yard. Still, supplier values are better. A small density change can affect a large order. For long driveways, that difference may add several tons.
Depth and Area Control the Order
Finished depth is the compacted thickness you want after rolling or tamping. Use four inches for light paths only when site conditions allow it. Use thicker sections for weak soils, parking areas, or heavier vehicles. Measure the actual area carefully. Split odd shapes into smaller rectangles when needed.
Ordering Smarter
The calculator rounds the final order using your chosen increment. This is helpful because suppliers rarely deliver exact decimal amounts. Truck capacity also matters. If the order exceeds one truck load, delivery charges may change. Always confirm minimum loads, delivery fees, and local compaction guidance before buying.
FAQs
1. What is crusher run?
Crusher run is crushed stone mixed with stone dust. It compacts into a stable base. It is often used for driveways, pads, paths, and foundation preparation.
2. How many tons are in a cubic yard of crusher run?
A common estimate is about 1.5 to 1.7 tons per cubic yard. The exact value depends on stone size, moisture, and supplier grading.
3. Why does the calculator include compaction allowance?
Crusher run becomes denser after compaction. Extra loose material may be needed to reach the final compacted depth. The allowance helps account for that settlement.
4. What depth should I use for a driveway base?
Many light residential bases use four to six inches. Heavy traffic, soft soil, or poor drainage may need more depth. Local guidance is best.
5. Should I add waste allowance?
Yes, a small waste allowance is useful. Spreading loss, uneven subgrade, edge loss, and delivery variation can increase the required amount.
6. Can I calculate tapered driveways?
Yes. Choose the tapered driveway option. Enter the run length, start width, and end width. The calculator uses average width for area.
7. Why is my order rounded up?
Stone suppliers often sell by practical increments. Rounding prevents under-ordering and makes the tonnage easier to match with delivery quantities.
8. Is this result exact?
It is a planning estimate. Real needs vary with compaction, moisture, grading, subgrade shape, and installation method. Confirm final quantities with your supplier.