Inputs to result
Cubic feet = cubic yards × 27; weight in pounds = cubic feet × density (lb/cu ft); US short tons = pounds ÷ 2,000.
Concrete & Masonry
Concrete Weight Calculator
Convert concrete volume in cubic yards to estimated weight in pounds and US short tons using your chosen concrete unit density.
Enter cubic yards and the concrete density in pounds per cubic foot. The result shows pounds, US short tons and cubic feet.
Calculation and worked example reviewed 2026-11-12. See our calculation methodology.
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Concrete & Masonry
US UNITSEnter your measurements
YOUR ESTIMATE
7,830 lb3.92 US short tons54 cu ft × 145 lb/cu ft.
Density is an editable assumption, not a measured property of this mix.
Formula and example
How this calculation works
This estimator converts your entered jobsite inputs (concrete volume, assumed density) into consistent US trade units, computes the exact geometric baseline first, and then applies any selected waste or order allowance so you can verify both numbers before purchasing materials.
How does the concrete weight calculator formula work?
Cubic feet = cubic yards × 27; weight in pounds = cubic feet × density (lb/cu ft); US short tons = pounds ÷ 2,000.
(Concrete Weight Calculator)where:
- Concrete volume – Entered in cu yd (default reference: 2 cu yd);
- Assumed density – Entered in lb/cu ft (default reference: 145 lb/cu ft);
Check the math
Two cubic yards at an assumed density of 145 lb/cu ft weigh 2 × 27 × 145 = 7,830 lb, or 3.915 US short tons.
Quick lookup chart
Concrete Weight Reference by Volume and Mix Density
1 cubic yard = 27 cubic feet; 1 US short ton = 2,000 pounds.
| Volume (cu yd) | Lightweight (115 lb/cf) | Normal Weight (145 lb/cf) | Reinforced (150 lb/cf) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1.0 cu yd | 3,105 lb (1.55 tons) | 3,915 lb (1.96 tons) | 4,050 lb (2.03 tons) |
| 2.0 cu yd | 6,210 lb (3.11 tons) | 7,830 lb (3.92 tons) | 8,100 lb (4.05 tons) |
| 5.0 cu yd | 15,525 lb (7.76 tons) | 19,575 lb (9.79 tons) | 20,250 lb (10.13 tons) |
| 10.0 cu yd | 31,050 lb (15.53 tons) | 39,150 lb (19.58 tons) | 40,500 lb (20.25 tons) |
Before you use this result
Density varies by mix and moisture. Obtain the project-specific unit weight when transport, lifting or structural loading depends on precision.
- Standard unreinforced cured concrete averages 145 lb/cu ft (~3,915 lb/cu yd); heavy steel reinforcement or wet mix is closer to 150 lb/cu ft (~4,050 lb/cu yd).
- For demolition hauling, broken concrete rubble swells in bulk volume by 30% to 40%, though total weight remains the same.
- Check dump trailer axle ratings and dumpster weight limits before loading broken 4-inch slab sections (~48 lb per sq ft).
Questions answered
Calculator FAQ
How much does a cubic yard of concrete weigh?+
At 145 lb per cubic foot, one cubic yard weighs 27 × 145 = 3,915 lb. Actual mixes vary.
Which ton does the result use?+
The result uses a US short ton of 2,000 pounds.