We all know that the cost of gravel can sometimes feel like a pebble in your shoe – impossible to ignore. But fear not. Whether you’re sprucing up your outdoor sanctuary or replenishing a pre-existing driveway, the price of a dump truck load of gravel doesn’t have to be a hard rock to swallow.
Gravel can be an affordable, low-maintenance option that adds texture and beauty without breaking the bank. Before you order, it pays to know the approximate amount of gravel that should be purchased for effective coverage and the associated costs. This blog post will look at how much a dump truckload of gravel usually costs along with other things you should take into consideration:
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How much does a dump truck load of gravel cost?
The cost of a dump truckload of gravel can fluctuate depending on several factors, including the type of gravel, the gravel delivery cost and fees, your location, and the depth of the gravel. Pea gravel is generally the most affordable where you can expect to pay anywhere from $150 to $400 for a truckload. For a typical 10-14 yard load, the expected cost range is around $350 to $550.
Factors Affecting the Cost of a Dump Truckload of Gravel
Here are some of the factors that can affect the cost of a dump load of gravel which we will outline below:
Type of gravel
Different types of gravel are priced differently, with some types costing more than others. For example, pea gravel tends to be less expensive than crushed stone, but both can be used in landscaping projects. Here is a quick look at some usual types of pea gravel landscape rocks used in ascending order:
- Pea Gravel $25 – $50
- Crushed Granite $25 – $50
- Crushed clamshell $25 – $60
- Crushed marble $25 – $65
- Crushed limestone $30 – $40
- River rock $35 – $50
- Blue stone gravel $50 – $100
- Quartz gravel $70 – $100
Delivery fees
Delivery fees of gravel can differ depending on location due to varying transportation costs. The distance between the supplier and the delivery location can impact the price. Additionally, some areas may have a higher demand for gravel, leading to increased delivery fees.
Your location
The cost of a dump truckload of gravel will also depend on the geographic location. For example, gravel in New York City is likely to cost more than gravel in rural areas due to the increased demand and limited supply.
Depth of the Gravel
The depth at which you are planning to lay your gravel can also affect the price. Obviously, the deeper you plan to lay your gravel, the more material you need and therefore the higher the cost will be.
Energy consumption
Energy consumption is another element that affects the cost of gravel. The harder the rock, the more energy is required to crush it; hence, its production cost can be higher. Considering gravel is relatively firm, significant amounts of energy are required during its production. As a result, the price of gravel is sometimes relatively high compared to other landscaping or construction materials.
Flakiness
Gravel stone is composed of lamellar and acicular grains, which have a significant impact on its quality and performance. These grains determine the level of the flakiness index, with higher indices indicating poor quality material that tends to fetch a lower price.
How Much Is A Truckload In Tons?
On average, large dump trucks can carry up to 14 tons, while smaller dump trucks usually carry 6.5 to 7.5 tons per cubic yard of weight. The pricing for such trucks can vary greatly depending on your area and requirements. It’s essential to research a variety of suppliers and compare prices in order to get the best deal for your needs.
A truckload of materials usually ranges between 20-30 tons, and homeowners may face costs ranging from $280 to $750 when hauling in a dump truck. The amount of material that a single truck can carry can vary greatly depending on the size and type of gravel. For instance, a 10-wheeler dump truck typically transports anywhere from 12 to 20 tons, while 8-10 cubic yards full of gravel are equal to roughly 0.66 tons.
1,000 kilograms in the US is equivalent to two tons while one ton in the UK weighs 1,016.05 pounds. To determine the total capacity of cubic yards required for delivery purposes, you need to multiply that number by 1.4 in order to get an estimate of the weight in tons.
Ways to Get the Best Deal When Purchasing a Load of Gravel
let’s have a look at some essential tips that can help you get the best deal when purchasing a load of gravel:
Compare prices from different suppliers
Buying gravel typically involves purchasing in bulk, so it’s important to compare prices from different suppliers when making a purchase. You should ask questions about delivery fees, volume discounts and any additional charges that may apply with the supplier.
Comparing gravel prices from different suppliers can often provide greater cost savings for larger orders of gravel, especially when transporting over long distances. Doing thorough market research will ensure businesses and homeowners are getting the best value for their money and selecting the right supplier for their project at an affordable price.
Negotiate delivery fees
You should take the time to negotiate delivery fees with suppliers. Researching delivery costs before making a purchase can potentially result in considerable savings. Businesses should consider their travel distance from the supplier, ask about discounts for prompt payment, and inquire if any additional fees apply such as fuel surcharges or extra charges for weekends or holidays.
Order ahead of time
It is always recommended to order gravel ahead of time since the price can vary depending on supply and demand. By ordering in advance, you can be sure that you are getting the best price for your purchase. This will also ensure you have enough material available when needed to avoid costly delays or additional fees due to unexpected shortages.
Ask for referrals
It’s useful to request referrals from friends, family or other businesses in order to get a better idea of what type of stone you should use for the project. In addition, make sure to ask suppliers for samples so that you can test the quality and color before making a final decision on which material to purchase.
Conclusion
Purchasing gravel can often be an expensive endeavour for businesses and homeowners, so it is important to do thorough research and compare prices from different suppliers. Negotiating delivery fees can be beneficial in helping to reduce costs, as well as considering things like the type of gravel delivered, its depth, and your location. Pea gravel tends to be the most economically-cheaper option, with prices for a typical dump truck load ranging anywhere between $150 to $400.
People also ask
How many tons of gravel are in a dump truck load?
A dump truck can typically hold 10-14 tons of gravel. The amount of gravel in a truckload will depend on the type of gravel and the depth of the material. Some types of gravel like pea gravel are less dense and may require more volume to reach the same weight, while other types like limestone are much heavier and denser, requiring less volume for the same weight.
How much will a ton of gravel cover?
Generally, a ton of gravel will cover an area of around 80 to 100 square feet at a depth of 2-4 inches. The exact area covered per ton will depend on the texture and size of the gravel, so it is best to consult with your supplier to get an accurate estimate of coverage.
How much does a dump truck load of gravel weigh?
A dump truck load of gravel typically weighs 10-14 tons. The exact weight will depend on the type and size of the gravel, as different types have different densities which can affect the overall weight.
How much is 1 yard of gravel?
One yard of gravel typically weighs 1.1 tons, or 2,200 pounds and costs roughly $15-$75. The exact price will depend on the type of gravel you choose, as some varieties are more expensive than others.
What's the best gravel to use for driveway?
The best type of gravel to use for driveways is crushed stone or a gravel mix, which has been mechanically processed and mixed with sand. Gravel that is angular and rough-surfaced will be able to bind together better than rounder, smoother stones. When selecting gravel for your driveway, it’s important to choose a size and style that best suits the area you are using it in. Have a read of this article if you want to find out more about driveway gravel.
What is the least expensive gravel?
The least expensive type of gravel is usually pea gravel, which ranges in cost from $30 to $55 per ton. Pea gravel is popular for driveways, and paths and as filler between flagstones. Other types of gravel that are less expensive include landscape gravel, crushed rock and recycled asphalt.
How deep should gravel be?
Generally, gravel should be installed at a depth of 2-3 inches for a driveway or other walkway. However, this can vary depending on the type of gravel you’re using and the amount of foot traffic it will receive. If you’re installing gravel in an area with heavy vehicle traffic, it’s best to install it at a greater depth (4-6 inches) to ensure that it is more durable and holds up better against the increased weight.
How deep should gravel be?
Generally, gravel should be installed at a depth of 2-3 inches for a driveway or other walkway. However, this can vary depending on the type of gravel you’re using and the amount of foot traffic it will receive. If you’re installing gravel in an area with heavy vehicle traffic, it’s best to install it at a greater depth (4-6 inches) to ensure that it is more durable and holds up better against the increased weight.
Is gravel cheaper than paving?
Generally, gravel is significantly cheaper than paving, but it depends on the type and quality of material you’re using. Gravel is typically sold by weight and can range from around $30 to $55 per ton. Paving materials, on the other hand, can cost upwards of $100 per ton or more depending on the size of the project and the quality of materials used.
How many tons of gravel do I need for my driveway?
The amount of gravel needed for a driveway depends on the size of your driveway, the depth of gravel desired, and the type of gravel you’re using. Generally, a small driveway (20 feet by 40 feet) requires about 12 tons of gravel if it is to be installed at a depth of 2–3 inches. For larger driveways or deeper installations, you’ll need more material. It’s best to consult with an expert for exact calculations based on your specific project.
What should I put down before gravel driveway?
Before installing a gravel driveway, it’s important to prepare the underlying surface first. This typically involves removing large stones and vegetation and grading the earth for even drainage. Additionally, you’ll need to install an edging material at the perimeter of your driveway, such as interlocking bricks or concrete pavers. Doing this will help to keep gravel from spilling onto the roadside or into your lawn.
