Truckload of Gravel Cost 2025: Complete Pricing Guide and Calculator

Planning a landscaping or construction project and wondering about gravel costs? You’re not alone in trying to figure out exactly what a truckload will cost you. A standard truckload of gravel typically ranges from $400 to $1,500 delivered, depending on the type of gravel, truck size, and your location.

The cost breaks down to approximately $15-75 per ton for the gravel itself, with delivery adding another $50-300 depending on distance. Most residential projects use 10-15 ton loads, which translates to roughly $500-1,000 total cost including delivery.

Quick Answer: A 12-ton truckload of crushed stone costs around $600-800 delivered within 20 miles, while specialty gravels like river rock can push that to $1,200-1,500 for the same load size.

Understanding these costs upfront helps you budget accurately and avoid surprises when quotes arrive. Let’s break down exactly what influences these prices and how you can get the best value for your gravel purchase.

Gravel pricing breakdown by type and quantity

Different gravel types come with vastly different price tags, and understanding these variations helps you choose the right material for your budget and project needs.

Crushed stone remains the most economical option at $15-30 per ton, making it perfect for driveways and base layers. Pea gravel sits in the middle range at $40-60 per ton, offering that smooth, decorative look many homeowners want. River rock commands premium pricing at $60-75 per ton due to its natural beauty and processing requirements.

When you scale this up to truckload quantities, the differences become significant. A 15-ton load of crushed stone might cost $450-600 for materials alone, while the same quantity of river rock could reach $900-1,125 before delivery charges. For more detailed information on current gravel pricing per ton, you can explore comprehensive breakdowns by material type.

The key is matching your gravel choice to your project’s function and aesthetic goals while staying within budget.

Dump truck sizes and their impact on cost

Truck capacity directly affects your per-ton pricing, with larger loads typically offering better value. Understanding standard truck sizes helps you optimize your order for both cost and practicality.

Single-axle dump trucks carry 5-7 tons and work well for smaller residential projects. These loads typically cost $200-500 delivered but offer higher per-ton rates. If you’re considering a smaller quantity, check out our guide on 5 tons of gravel costs for detailed pricing. Tandem-axle trucks handle 12-15 tons, hitting that sweet spot for most homeowners at $400-900 total cost.

For larger projects, tri-axle trucks can haul 18-22 tons, bringing per-ton costs down significantly. However, you need adequate space and access for these larger vehicles, plus the ability to use that much material efficiently. For major commercial projects, understanding 100 tons of gravel pricing can help you plan bulk orders more effectively.

Pro Tip: Ordering a 15-ton load instead of two 8-ton deliveries can save you $200-400 in delivery fees and per-ton pricing, even if you need to store some gravel temporarily.

The logistics matter too. Larger trucks require wider access roads and more maneuvering space. If your project site has tight access, you might need to accept higher per-ton costs for smaller, more manageable deliveries.

Hidden delivery costs that affect your budget

Delivery charges often surprise customers because they involve more variables than just the base gravel price. Most suppliers charge $2-5 per mile from their location, with minimum delivery fees ranging from $50-150. Understanding gravel delivery prices helps you anticipate these additional costs.

Distance plays the biggest role, but it’s not the only factor. Fuel surcharges, tolls, and difficult site access can add unexpected costs. If the truck needs to wait while you prepare the delivery area, expect wait time charges of $50-100 per hour.

Some suppliers offer free delivery within a certain radius for large orders, typically 15+ tons within 10-15 miles. Others provide flat-rate delivery pricing that can work in your favor for longer distances.

Site preparation affects delivery costs too. If the truck can’t get close to your project area, you might need additional equipment or labor to move the gravel, adding $100-300 to your total project cost.

Money-Saving Strategy: Call multiple suppliers to compare their delivery zones and minimum order requirements. Sometimes a supplier 10 miles further away offers better total pricing due to lower delivery fees or bulk discounts.

Smart strategies to reduce your gravel costs

Timing your purchase strategically can lead to significant savings. Many suppliers offer lower rates during off-peak seasons, typically late fall through early spring when construction activity slows down.

Buying in bulk remains one of the most effective cost-reduction strategies. Even if you don’t need all the gravel immediately, the per-ton savings often justify ordering larger quantities. Our comprehensive guide on bulk gravel costs provides detailed insights into volume discounts and ordering strategies. You can always use extra gravel for future projects or landscaping needs.

Consider coordinating with neighbors for shared deliveries. If multiple households need gravel, splitting a large truck delivery can reduce individual costs substantially. Some suppliers will make multiple stops on the same route for a single delivery fee.

Preparing your site properly before delivery eliminates additional charges. Clear the delivery path, mark underground utilities, and have the area ready for immediate dumping. This prevents wait time charges and potential access fees for difficult deliveries.

Shopping around pays off significantly in the gravel industry. Price variations between suppliers can reach 30-40% for identical products and services. Get quotes from at least three suppliers, and don’t forget to factor in delivery costs when comparing total prices. For regional pricing variations, check out gravel prices per ton in Ohio to see how location impacts costs.

Getting the right amount of gravel for your project requires accurate calculations, but the investment in proper planning pays off through reduced waste and avoided shortages. Most suppliers provide calculators or can help estimate quantities based on your project dimensions and intended use.

Remember that gravel costs fluctuate based on fuel prices, seasonal demand, and local market conditions. Getting quotes close to your planned purchase date ensures more accurate budgeting. With proper research and strategic planning, you can secure quality gravel at competitive prices while avoiding common cost pitfalls that catch many buyers off guard.

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