How Many Yards of Gravel in a Gravel Truck? A Deep Dive into Load Capacity
The question "How many yards of gravel in a gravel truck?" doesn't have a simple answer. The volume a gravel truck can carry depends significantly on several factors. This article will break down these factors and give you a clearer understanding of what to expect when ordering gravel.
What Size is the Truck?
This is the most crucial factor. Gravel trucks come in a wide variety of sizes, from smaller dump trucks to massive articulated dump trucks. A small dump truck might only hold 5-7 cubic yards, while a larger one can easily hold 10-14 cubic yards or more. The size of the truck is often expressed in tons, but the cubic yardage varies depending on the type of material carried and how it's loaded.
How is the Truck Loaded?
The way gravel is loaded into the truck affects the final volume. A perfectly level load will maximize the cubic yards. However, a poorly loaded truck, with uneven distribution or large air pockets, will carry less. This also depends on the type of gravel; larger, more angular rocks will leave more air gaps than fine gravel.
What Type of Gravel?
The type of gravel itself impacts the volume. Larger gravel stones leave air pockets, resulting in a lower volume compared to fine gravel. Think of it like packing a suitcase – small items fill the space efficiently, while large, bulky items leave gaps. This means that even if two trucks are the same size, they might hold a different number of cubic yards of gravel depending on the size of the stones.
What are the typical gravel truck sizes and their capacities?
While there isn't a universal standard, here's a general idea of the capacity range you might encounter:
- Small Dump Trucks: 5-7 cubic yards
- Medium Dump Trucks: 8-12 cubic yards
- Large Dump Trucks: 12-18 cubic yards
- End-Dump Trailers: Can carry significantly more than a standard dump truck, often 20+ cubic yards. However, these require special access.
How do I know how much gravel I need for my project?
To accurately estimate your needs, you'll need to determine the volume of the area you are covering. Calculate the length, width, and depth (in feet) of your project, then multiply these figures together. Convert the resulting cubic feet into cubic yards by dividing by 27 (since there are 27 cubic feet in a cubic yard). Add extra to account for settling and waste.
What about weight versus volume?
Gravel is sold by weight (tons) as well as volume (cubic yards). The weight per cubic yard varies depending on the type of gravel and its moisture content. This adds another layer of complexity in determining the exact load capacity of a gravel truck for a given project.
In summary, there is no single answer to how many yards of gravel a truck carries. You need to consider the truck size, loading method, and type of gravel. If you need a precise estimate for your project, it's best to contact a gravel supplier directly and clarify the truck size and the expected volume for the specific type of gravel you've chosen.
