The Cost of a Full Dump Truck Load of Gravel
In the United States, a full dump truck load of gravel generally ranges from $500 to $1,000 or more. Most standard dump trucks hold between 10 and 25 tons, but exact capacity depends on the truck type.
Understanding Truck Capacities
- Single-axle dump trucks: These smaller vehicles often carry 6 to 10 tons.
- Tri-axle or quad-axle trucks: These larger vehicles can haul between 15 and 25 tons.
- Flatbed trucks: When equipped with side boards, these can also handle heavier bulk shipments.
Factors Influencing Total Cost
Knowing the approximate price ahead of time can help you budget for projects like driveway installations, site preparation, drainage fixes, and landscaping work. The total cost depends on three main factors:
- Gravel type and quality: Premium materials like crushed limestone or decorative river rock are more expensive than basic road base or recycled concrete.
- Location and supply: If you are close to a quarry or gravel pit, you will typically pay less for delivery. Rural or remote areas often face higher hauling charges.
- Delivery distance: Hauling costs rise quickly with mileage, especially if the truck has to make multiple trips.
What Drives the Cost of a Load?
Gravel prices are influenced by several additional variables:
- Material choice: Dense, high-strength materials like #57 limestone or granite cost more but offer better load-bearing capacity and durability.
- Availability: If your preferred material is stocked locally, you will save on freight.
- Seasonal demand: Construction activity peaks in spring and summer, which can raise both material and delivery costs.
- Order size: Buying a full truckload often gives you a better per-ton rate compared to smaller partial loads.
Contacting local suppliers directly is the best way to get accurate, location-specific pricing.
How Much Area Will a Truckload of Gravel Cover?
Coverage depends on how deep you spread the gravel:
- Standard load (10 to 13 tons): Covers about 100 to 130 sq. ft. at a depth of 6 inches.
- Standard load (10 to 13 tons): Covers roughly 200 to 265 sq. ft. at a depth of 3 inches.
If you are calculating for a driveway, patio base, or parking area, keep in mind that gravel compacts after installation. Softer materials or wet loads may require you to order slightly more to account for settling.
Picking the Right Gravel for the Job
The best gravel type depends on your specific application:
- #57 Crushed Stone: Angular shape that locks in place, perfect for driveways, concrete bases, and drainage.
- Pea Gravel: Smooth, round pebbles ideal for walkways, patios, and decorative beds.
- River Rock: Larger, rounded stones with varied colors for landscape borders and water features.
- Road Base / Crusher Run: A mix of fines and crushed stone that compacts into a stable layer for under roads.
- Recycled Concrete: A budget-friendly and eco-friendly option for base layers or fill material.
How Many Tons of Gravel Do You Need?
Use this quick guide for estimating your requirements:
- 1 ton at 3 inches deep: Covers around 80 sq. ft.
- 1 ton at 6 inches deep: Covers around 40 sq. ft.
- Example project: A 12x20 driveway (240 sq. ft.) at 4 inches deep will need approximately 6 to 7 tons of gravel.
Because factors like moisture content, stone shape, and compaction can change coverage, it is best to round up slightly when ordering to prevent project delays.