How much crusher run do I need? Enter your driveway or base layer dimensions and get instant tonnage, cubic yards, cost, and delivery estimates.
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Last updated March 31, 2026 by our expert review team
Walkways
Foot traffic
Patio/Light Driveway
Standard use
Heavy Driveway
Trucks, trailers
Add 2" for poor drainage or clay soil conditions
Ruth Wairimu
Landscape Architect
Landscape architect with 9+ years of experience, AAK member, IFLA climate activist, and founder of Bloomwell.
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Certified Cost & Estimating Professional
AACE-certified estimator working with 20+ insulation companies including the two largest franchises in America.
See full profileUpdated March 2026
How we verify our calculatorsOrder 15 to 20% extra for compaction. Crusher run compresses significantly under a 3,000+ lb plate compactor running 2 to 3 passes per lift.
Compact in 2 to 3" lifts, never full depth. Wet each lift to about 8% moisture (damp, not muddy) before compacting.
Install aluminum or steel edge restraints before spreading. Plastic edging bows under compactor pressure.
Slope the surface 2% away from structures (1/4" per foot). Insufficient drainage is the #1 cause of crusher run failure. The FHWA aggregate base guide covers proper grading.
Choose VDOT #21A or equivalent state-spec grade. It has the ideal 0 to 1.5" particle distribution with 10 to 15% fines.
Allow 48 to 72 hours of settling after final compaction before parking heavy vehicles. Light rain helps fines bond.
Looking for a recycled alternative? Our crushed concrete calculator covers RCA, which costs 30-50% less than virgin aggregate.
Need to prep the subgrade first? Use our excavation calculator to estimate dirt removal and grading.
For paver projects on top of crusher run, check our paver base calculator for proper layer depths.
After compacting the base, use our concrete slab calculator to estimate concrete for the slab on top.
After compacting the base, use our asphalt calculator to estimate how many tons of hot mix you need on top.
Planning a full gravel driveway? Our gravel driveway calculator estimates total material with 3-layer construction and delivery costs.
Our calculator multiplies your length, width, and depth measurements to determine the total cubic yards needed for your project. We then convert to tons using crusher run's average loose weight of 3,000 pounds per cubic yard (1.5 tons per AASHTO T19 unit weight standards). The compaction factor is critical for crusher run because its graded particle distribution causes 15-20% volume reduction during compaction, significantly more than uniform-size aggregates. We default to 10% extra material, but heavy-use driveways on clay subgrades should use 15-20% to account for material that migrates into soft ground. The formula assumes standard #21A/dense-grade aggregate; open-graded stone (like #57) weighs less at approximately 1.3 tons per cubic yard.
Formula
Cubic Yards = Length × Width × (Depth ÷ 12) ÷ 27
Tons = Cubic Yards × 1.5
With Compaction = Base × (1 + Factor%)
What is crusher run?
A blend of crushed stone (dust to 1.5") that interlocks when compacted. Also called VDOT #21A, QP, or dense-grade aggregate. See crusher run properties and uses for more detail.
How much per square foot?
At 4" deep, about 24 lbs (0.012 cu yd) per sq ft. A 12x60 ft driveway needs 8 to 9 tons with 10% compaction allowance.
Does it harden over time?
Not like concrete, but angular fines pack tightly under traffic. A well-compacted driveway can last 15 to 20 years.
Better than pea gravel?
Yes. Pea gravel shifts and ruts within months. Crusher run's angular particles interlock into a firm, structural surface. Compare with crushed concrete (RCA) for an even cheaper option.
How deep for a driveway?
4" for cars only, 6" for trucks/SUVs, 8"+ for RVs and commercial. Add 2" on clay soil.
Can I place it directly on dirt?
Yes, after removing topsoil to firm subgrade. Use geotextile fabric on clay soils to prevent sinking. Our fill dirt calculator helps with subgrade prep.
How long to settle?
Initial compaction is immediate. Full settling takes 2 to 4 weeks. Keep heavy vehicles off for 48 to 72 hours.
Cost per ton delivered?
$25 to $45/ton material plus $50 to $150 delivery. A 12x60 ft driveway runs $400 to $800 DIY.
Total material: 22 cubic yards (33 tons) with 10% compaction factor. Two dump truck loads at $35/ton delivered. Compacted in 3-inch lifts over two days, this driveway handles daily F-150 traffic and occasional tractor loads without rutting.
Parking pad for an RV over geotextile fabric (Mirafi 500X, $0.15/sq ft) to prevent sinking into clay subgrade. After 18 months of supporting a 12,000-lb travel trailer, zero settling observed.
Base layer: 1.5 cubic yards (2.2 tons, $66). Stone dust topping: 0.4 tons ($15). Total under $100 compared to $400+ for a poured concrete slab. Compacted crusher run provides drainage and prevents frost heave.
Using the wrong grade
Standard #21A (0 to 1.5") is correct for driveways. Ungraded quarry waste lacks the 10 to 15% fines needed for compaction. Ask for a gradation spec.
Compacting when too dry
Fines need 6 to 8% moisture to bind. Spray each lift lightly until damp but not puddling.
Skipping subgrade preparation
Strip topsoil (4 to 6"), expose firm native soil, and compact to 95% density before placing stone. Skipping causes sinking within a year.
No edge restraints
Without rigid borders, material migrates 2 to 3" per year. Install timbers, aluminum edging, or steel stakes first.
Dumping and driving on immediately
Vehicle tires create ruts, not compaction. Rent a plate compactor ($50 to $75/day) and make 3 to 4 passes per 3" lift.
Important Disclaimer
These estimates are for planning purposes only. Actual costs vary by location, material availability, and project complexity. Always get at least 3 local quotes. This calculator does not replace professional advice.