Load & Go Bulk Landscaping Materials
Pick-Up Sand, Gravel & Dirt If Your Truck Can Hold It
How Much Can My Truck Carry?
Aggregates – Weight & Volume
- Typically sand and gravel weigh approximately 1500 pounds (3/4 of a ton) per scoop (1/2 cubic yard). One cubic yard (2 scoops) will weigh about 1.5 tons (3000 lbs.).
- Soils typically weigh a little less, approximately 1000-1200 pounds per scoop.
- Mulches weigh even less, about 400-500 lbs. per scoop.
Pick-Up Truck Payloads – Aggregates
- A typical small truck (Ranger, S-10, Tacoma, Frontier, etc.) have an approximate 1000 lb. payload and standard pickup trucks (F-150, Silverado, Ram, etc.) have approximately 1500 lb. payload. They should be able to handle one scoop of a heavy aggregate or 1.5-2 scoops of a soil mix. Depending on the length of the truck bed, these trucks should be able to hold 2-4 scoops of a mulch or compost.
- Work trucks (F-250, 2500’s, etc.) have approximate 2500 lb. payload which can handle 2 – 3 scoops of heavy aggregates. Again, depending on bed size, they should be able to accommodate 4-5 scoops of mulch (more if it is covered in a tarp and secured).
- Heavy-duty pick-ups (F-350, 3500’s, etc.) can handle 5 or more scoops of heavy aggregate depending on the exact payload of the vehicle.
- Trailers come in a wide variety of sizes and payloads. Figure that the smaller the axle the less capacity it will have. Trailers without springs will typically only handle 1 scoop of soil or gravel. Mulch will depend on sidewalls for that trailer. Those with leaf springs will be able to handle 2 or more scoops depending on the exact payload limitation.
- Double axle trailers can handle much more weight, 4 or more scoops.
Please Note: All trailers should have a solid bottom and sides so aggregates, soils, and mulches do not leak from the trailer when on the road. It is recommended that ALL loads be tarped and secured.
Stone weight will vary, of course, according to the type of stone. For example, a full pallet of Flagstone is around 2.25 tons (4500 lb), but a pallet of Fieldstone weighs around 2.75 tons (3500 lb).
Small amounts – Most cars can handle up to about 500 lbs. Just think of how many people the vehicle can accommodate (i.e. four) and average them at 200 lb each. Be careful to consider the distribution of that weight to both inside the vehicle and the rear cargo area.
Vans – Passenger vans would follow the same principle as above. With good distribution, you may be able to carry 800+ lbs. Cargo vans are rated like pick-up trucks. that will determine how much you can carry.
Small and Standard Pick-up Trucks – (F-150 or smaller) These trucks are rated at 1500 lb (3/4 ton) OR less. Carrying more than that is not recommended.
Please note: With the various variations of vehicles drive by our customers, it is their responsibility to understand what is a safe payload for their vehicle so that travels from our facility to their final destination are safe and secure. That responsibility falls within the confines of the customer NOT the business.