How Much Does a Dump Truck Load of Gravel Cost?

The short answer

A dump truck load of gravel costs **$400 to $600 on average** for 10 to 15 cubic yards delivered. The gravel itself ranges from **$25 to $50 per cubic yard**, and delivery adds **$50 to $150** per trip depending on distance. Exact price varies by gravel type, like crushed stone or pea gravel, and your location. As of March 2025, expect to pay more for decorative gravel or long hauls. Use a gravel calculator to nail down the right amount you need and avoid waste.

Key takeaways

Bulk delivery is cheaper: A full truckload costs half per yard compared to bagged gravel from a store.
Always over-order slightly: Aim for 5% extra to cover compaction and spread variation.
Call ahead for weight limits: A tri-axle dump truck holds up to 15 tons, but lighter gravel may allow more volume.
DIY spreading is possible: A truckload of gravel can be moved with a wheelbarrow and shovel, but it’s hard work.

If you’re pricing a driveway, landscaping, or a base for a concrete slab, knowing the cost of a dump truck load of gravel is step one. Gravel is sold by the ton or cubic yard, and delivery costs can swing the total bill. This guide gives you honest price ranges and shows you how to calculate exactly what you need so you don’t under-order or overpay. We’ll cover gravel types, hidden fees, and when it’s smart to bring in a crew instead of going it alone.

What’s the typical cost of a dump truck load of gravel?

A dump truck load of gravel costs $400 to $600 for a full 10- to 15-cubic-yard delivery in most areas as of March 2025. That includes the material and the haul. Smaller loads (5 to 8 yards) run $250 to $450, and larger trucks (20 yards) can push $800 or more.

Bulk gravel prices range from $25 to $50 per cubic yard for common types like crushed stone or bank run gravel.
Delivery fees add $50 to $150 per trip, depending on how far the supplier is from your site.
Decorative gravel, like pea gravel or river rock, often costs $40 to $70 per yard because it’s washed and screened.
A full truckload usually means 10 to 15 cubic yards, which covers about 1,000 to 1,500 square feet at 2 inches deep.
For a precise project quote, plug your dimensions into our gravel calculator and compare needs with crushed stone options.

How do I calculate how much gravel I need?

Start by measuring your project area in feet (length × width) and your desired depth in inches. Then convert everything to cubic yards. One cubic yard of gravel covers about 100 square feet at 3 inches deep.

Multiply length × width to get square feet. Then divide by 27 to convert cubic feet to cubic yards (depth must be in feet).
For example, a 10×10 area at 2 inches deep needs 0.62 cubic yards of gravel.
Always add 5 to 10 percent extra to cover compaction and uneven spread. Gravel settles after you compact it.
Use our gravel calculator to enter your exact dimensions and get an instant yardage estimate.
For heavier projects like a concrete base, also check out our concrete slab calculator to plan the full sub-base.

What factors affect the price of a dump truck load of gravel?

Several variables push the final bill up or down. Gravel type is the biggest cost driver, but delivery logistics matter just as much.

Gravel type: Crushed stone is cheapest at $25–$45 per yard, while pea gravel and river rock can push $60+ per yard.
Delivery distance: Most suppliers charge $2 to $5 per mile beyond a 10-mile radius. Fuel surcharges add to this.
Truck size: A full 10- to 15-yard load gives the best per-yard rate. Smaller split loads often come with a minimum delivery fee.
Seasonal demand: Prices can spike 10 to 20 percent in spring when landscaping projects peak.
Access issues: If your site requires a smaller truck or extra labor, expect add-on charges.
Before ordering, use our gravel calculator to nail down how many cubic yards you really need to avoid waste.

What are common mistakes when ordering gravel?

Even small miscalculations can leave you with a half-finished project or a pile of extra stone you can’t return. Avoid these typical pitfalls to save money and time.

Measuring in feet instead of cubic yards: Gravel is sold by volume, not square footage. Always convert to cubic yards with a gravel calculator.
Forgetting compaction: Loose gravel compacts by 5 to 10 percent under traffic. Order extra to fill the void or you’ll end up with low spots.
Ordering by weight: A ton of gravel doesn’t equal a cubic yard. Weight varies with moisture and rock size. Stick to volume for accuracy.
Skipping underlayment: Without landscape fabric or a base layer, gravel sinks into mud. Check our crushed stone guide for proper base prep.
Assuming easy access: Dump trucks need a 10-foot-wide gate and firm ground. If not, you may pay for a wheelbarrow service or rent a skid steer.

What types of gravel can I order by the truckload?

The type of gravel you choose changes the look, lifespan, and cost of your project. Match the stone to the job for the best result.

Crushed stone: Angular and sharp, it locks together for a stable base. Costs $25 to $45 per yard. Great for driveways and under concrete slabs.
Pea gravel: Smooth and rounded, comfortable underfoot but moves easily. Runs $30 to $60 per yard. Check our pea gravel calculator for playgrounds and paths.
River rock: Larger and decorative, with polished stones. Priced $45 to $80 per yard; ideal for drainage and accents.
Bank run gravel: Unscreened mix of stone, sand, and dirt. At $15 to $25 per yard, it’s the cheapest fill option but not as clean.
For a head-to-head look, visit our crushed stone calculator to compare costs with other materials.

When should I DIY gravel spreading vs hire a pro?

A dump truck load of gravel is a big pile. Ten yards weighs about 12 tons. Moving it by hand is back-breaking work, but doable for small areas. Larger jobs demand equipment or a crew.

DIY works if you have a wheelbarrow, shovel, and a weekend for a small driveway under 500 square feet. Plan on two days of steady labor.
Rent a plate compactor for $50 to $80 a day to lock the gravel in place. Loose gravel shifts under tires without compacting.
Call a pro if your site has steep slopes, needs regrading, or is over 1,000 square feet. Pros bring skid steers and can spread evenly in hours.
Mixed approach: Have the gravel delivered and tailgate-spread by the driver, then you do the fine raking and compacting.
Use our gravel calculator to estimate how much material you’d need to move, then decide if it’s worth hiring a crew.

Cost per yard	Crushed stone: $25–$45	Pea gravel: $30–$60
Best for	Driveways, base layers	Walkways, playgrounds
Appearance	Angular gray, packs well	Smooth, rounded, decorative
Compacts?	Yes, locks together	No, stays loose
Maintenance	Low, occasional regrading	Higher, can scatter

Questions this page answers

How many cubic yards are in a dump truck load of gravel?

A full dump truck load typically holds 10 to 15 cubic yards, depending on the truck size and gravel weight. Tri-axle trucks often haul 12 to 15 yards. Smaller single-axle trucks may carry 5 to 8 yards. Always confirm with your supplier before ordering.

Can I buy a half-load of gravel?

Yes, most suppliers offer split loads for a fee, often called a “short load” charge. Expect to pay $50 to $100 extra on top of the per-yard price. A smaller truck may also be used, which could change the delivery cost. It’s usually more cost-effective to buy a full load and save the leftover for another project.

Is gravel sold by weight or volume?

Gravel is almost always sold by the cubic yard, a measure of volume. Some quarries also sell by the ton, but volume is more common for residential projects because coverage is easier to calculate. If you get a price per ton, remember that 1 cubic yard of gravel weighs roughly 2,400 to 2,800 pounds, so a 10-yard load is about 12 to 14 tons.

How long does it take to get a dump truck load of gravel?

Delivery lead times range from same-day to two weeks, depending on the season and the supplier’s schedule. Spring and early summer are busiest. You may need to wait 7 to 10 days. Schedule your delivery at least a week in advance, and have the site prepped before the truck arrives.

What does crushed stone look like?

Crushed stone is angular with sharp edges and a gray to blue-gray color. It’s made by mechanically crushing larger rocks. The pieces interlock well, which makes it ideal for driveways and as a base for concrete. It’s not as smooth or decorative as pea gravel, but it stays put better under vehicle traffic.

Do I need a permit for a gravel driveway?

Permit requirements vary by city and county. Some areas require a permit for new driveways or substantial changes, especially if they affect drainage. Always check with your local building department before spreading gravel. If you’re replacing an existing driveway, you might not need one, but it’s safer to ask.

How do I keep gravel from sinking into mud?

Use a layer of landscape fabric under the gravel to separate it from the soil. This prevents the stone from mixing with mud and sinking. A 4- to 6-inch base of larger crushed stone also helps with drainage and stability. Compact the base before adding the top layer of finer gravel.

Can a dump truck drive on my lawn?

Dump trucks are heavy (up to 30,000 pounds loaded) and will rut wet or soft ground. Gravel drivers prefer a firm, flat surface like a driveway or compacted path. If you need gravel delivered to a backyard, discuss it with the supplier first. They may send a smaller truck or recommend wheelbarrowing from the street.

A dump truck load of gravel costs about $400 to $600 for 10 to 15 cubic yards delivered, with per-yard rates of $25 to $50 as of March 2025. That range covers everything from the stone itself to the delivery fee. To get the exact right amount for your driveway, path, or base material, plug your project dimensions into our [gravel calculator](/calculators/gravel). It’s fast, free, and built from real-world material weights and coverage rates. You’ll walk away with a solid number you can take straight to your local supplier and order with confidence.