How much does a dump truck load of sand cost?

In the United States, a full dump truck load of sand typically costs between $300 and $800. The final price depends on the type of sand, how much you order, and the delivery distance. Smaller single-axle dump trucks often carry 6–10 tons, while larger tri-axle trucks can haul 15–25 tons in a single trip.

Specialty sands like masonry sand or play sand usually cost more per ton than common fill sand or screened sand. Local availability can also make a big difference - if the sand is sourced from a nearby pit or supplier, you’ll usually save on transportation costs.

What affects dump truck sand cost?

Several factors influence the final price:

• Sand type – Masonry sand, play sand, and washed sand cost more than basic fill sand.

• Delivery distance – The farther the truck has to travel, the higher the fuel and labor costs.

• Seasonal demand – Prices often rise in spring and summer when construction and landscaping projects peak.

• Order volume – Full truckloads have a lower cost per ton compared to small deliveries.

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How much area does a truckload of sand cover?

Coverage depends on both truck capacity and how deep you spread it:

• 10 tons will cover about 120 sq. ft. at 6 inches deep or 240 sq. ft. at 3 inches deep.

• 15 tons will cover about 180 sq. ft. at 6 inches deep or 360 sq. ft. at 3 inches deep.

For paver bases, 1–2 inches is common. For playgrounds or leveling areas, 3–6 inches is more typical.

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Choosing the right sand for your project

Different sand types are suited for specific uses:

• Masonry sand – Fine, clean sand used for mortar, stucco, and paver joints.

• Play sand – Soft, washed sand for playgrounds and sandboxes.

• Fill sand – Coarser sand for bulk filling, grading, and leveling.

• Screened sand – Even particle size, used for landscaping and under turf.

• Concrete sand – Washed, coarse sand for mixing with cement or as a base material.

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How much sand do you need?

Use this quick reference:

• 1 ton at 3 inches deep covers around 24 sq. ft.

• 1 ton at 6 inches deep covers around 12 sq. ft.

• Example: A 10×15 paver patio (150 sq. ft.) with a 2-inch sand base will require about 2 tons of sand.

Since sand compacts after installation, it’s smart to order a little extra to avoid running short.