Material Cost Calculator

Inputs

Quantity (tonnes)

Unit Price ($ / tonne)

Enter the price per tonne, in CAD.

Material Density (kg/m³)

Typical ranges: granular A/B 1600–1900, crushed stone 1500–1700, asphalt 2300–2500 kg/m³.

Wastage / Handling Allowance (%)

For estimation purposes only. Terms of Use

Result

—

total material cost

Effective tonnes—

Volume—

Cost per m³—

Cost per cubic yard—

Enter the quantity in tonnes and the price per tonne.

Add your waste/handling allowance: total cost = quantity × price × (1 + waste%).

Convert to unit costs — volume = tonnes × 1,000 ÷ density, then cost per m³ (× 0.7646 for per yd³) to compare quotes.

Formula Used

Total cost = Quantity × Price per tonne × (1 + Wastage %)
Volume = Quantity × 1000 ÷ Density
Cost per m³ = Total cost ÷ Volume
Cost per yd³ = Cost per m³ × 0.7646

Worked Example

100 tonnes of granular A at $28/tonne with a 1,600 kg/m³ density and 3% allowance:

Total = 100 × 28 × 1.03 = $2,884
Volume = 100 × 1000 ÷ 1600 = 62.5 m³
Cost/m³ = 2884 ÷ 62.5 = $46.14
Cost/yd³ = 46.14 × 0.7646 = $35.28 per cubic yard

When to Use This Calculator

Use this when comparing supplier quotes that use different units — one quotes per tonne, another per cubic yard — or when checking a materials line item before submitting a bid.

When Not to Use This Calculator

Actual densities vary by material, moisture, and compaction. For contract quantities, confirm density and delivered tonnage against supplier tickets and approved specifications.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does cost per cubic yard matter? ▾

Many suppliers and estimators quote in cubic yards, especially in imperial-based regions. Converting both quotes to the same unit makes apples-to-apples comparison easy.

What density should I use? ▾

Start with the supplier's bulk density if they provide it. Otherwise use 1,600 kg/m³ for general granular material and adjust based on the hints on this page.