Crusher Run Calculator

Calculate crusher run from your area and finished compacted depth, with an optional compaction or yield figure from your supplier and optional bulk density for weight.

Crusher run volume calculator

Material: Crusher run · Calculating another material? Use the Gravel Calculator

Units
Area and depth

Section 1

Shape

For a square, enter the same length and width.

Enter the finished depth you plan to use.

Add another area — a second bed or a path, for example — to calculate a combined total.

Compaction / yieldOptional — only if your supplier or project gives a figure
How do you know the adjustment?

Specifications such as “95% maximum dry density” are density-test targets. They do not mean adding 5% more material.

Advanced optionsExtra material / handling allowance

Adds the percentage you choose to the order volume for waste, handling or contingency. It is separate from compaction.

Result

Your result will appear here

Enter your measurements and calculate to see volume in cubic yards, cubic feet, and cubic metres.

How this calculator works

First the calculator finds the finished volume: area × the finished (compacted) depth you enter. That result needs no assumptions.

Finished volume = Area × Finished depth

Crusher run is usually compacted, so the loose volume you order can be larger than the finished volume. If your supplier or project gives you a figure, open Compaction / yield:

Loose volume = Finished volume ÷ (1 − volume reduction)

Loose volume = Finished volume ÷ loose-to-compacted yield

Any Extra material / handling allowance is applied after the compaction adjustment. Nothing is added unless you enter it.

About crusher run

Crusher run is crushed stone that keeps its fine particles, so it packs down firmly when compacted. It is commonly used as a base under driveways, patios and paths.

No automatic compaction factor

There is no universal amount by which crusher run shrinks. It depends on the product, its moisture and how it is compacted. Compaction specifications such as “95% of maximum dry density” are density-test targets — they do not mean adding 5% more material. Use a volume reduction or yield figure from your supplier or project, or leave the adjustment off.

No generic crusher run density

Different crusher run products — and the same product loose or compacted — weigh different amounts per cubic yard. For weight, enter your supplier's bulk density and make sure its condition matches the volume you are converting: a loose density with the loose order volume.

Several layers?

If crusher run is one layer of a driveway, the Gravel Driveway Calculator handles each layer separately. Rural road guidance from FHWA sets layer thickness by traffic and subgrade, and does not provide a residential depth — enter the depth from your plan. For any other material, use the Gravel Calculator.

Worked example

Example: 40 ft × 10 ft base, 4 in finished, 20% volume reduction from the supplier

  1. Area: 40 ft × 10 ft = 400 ft²
  2. Finished volume: 400 × 0.3333 ft = 133.3 ft³ = 4.94 yd³
  3. Loose volume: 4.94 ÷ (1 − 0.20) = 6.17 yd³

Result: 6.17 cubic yards loose to order (no allowance). The depth and 20% reduction are example inputs, not recommendations.

Frequently asked questions

How much extra crusher run do I need for compaction?

It depends on the product and how it is compacted. Ask your supplier for a volume reduction or loose-to-compacted yield figure and enter it under Compaction / yield. The calculator does not assume one.

Is the Extra material allowance the same as compaction?

No. Compaction accounts for material packing down; the allowance covers waste, handling or contingency. They are entered separately, and the allowance is applied after compaction.

How many US short tons of crusher run do I need?

Enter your supplier’s bulk density after calculating. Use a loose delivered density with the loose order volume. The result is an estimate in US short tons and metric tonnes.

Sources & methodology

Volumes are geometry, unit conversion and the adjustments you enter. No source supplies a crusher run depth, compaction factor or density. Sources relevant to this page: