Ordering Gravel & Crushed Rock sounds simple.

Until you’re standing in front of a massive pile of stone thinking, “Okay… but how much do we actually need?”

We’ve been there.

You start calling local gravel suppliers, and suddenly everyone’s using terms you’ve never heard before. Base rock. Screened. Washed. Angular. Rounded. Prices vary. Delivery fees pop up. And halfway through the call you realize… you probably should’ve prepared a little.

So here are the questions we wish we asked the first time.

1. What Type of Gravel Do We Actually Need?

Not all gravel behaves the same.

Some packs down tight and stays put.
Some drains really well.
Some moves around every time you step on it.

If you’re doing a driveway, you’ll probably want angular crushed rock because it locks together when compacted. Rounded river rock? Looks nice. Doesn’t stay put as well.

Instead of guessing, just ask:

• Is this angular or rounded?

• Does it compact well?

• Is this meant for driveways, walkways, or drainage?

Most local gravel suppliers are used to these questions. It’s normal. And it saves you from accidentally buying decorative rock for something that needs strength.

(It happens more often than you think.)

2. How Much Do We Really Need?

This is where people mess up.

Gravel is usually sold by the cubic yard or by the ton. And unless you deal with this stuff regularly, estimating volume is… confusing.

A general rule:

• 3 inches deep works for walkways.

• 4–6 inches is more common for driveways.

But here’s the honest tip: measure your space, then let the supplier double-check the math. Most of them have calculators and do this all day.

It’s better than ending up short and paying another delivery fee.

Or worse… ordering way too much.

3. How Does Delivery Actually Work?

Delivery day can go smoothly.

Or it can turn into chaos.

Ask simple things like:

• How much space does the truck need?

• Can it dump in one pile or spread it?

• Does the area need to be completely clear?

Some dump trucks need more room than people expect. Low tree branches, narrow gates, parked cars — all of that matters.

It’s not a bad idea to send photos of your driveway or yard if you’re unsure. A quick conversation avoids awkward situations when the truck shows up and can’t unload.

4. Is the Gravel Clean?

This one doesn’t get talked about enough.

Some gravel comes full of excess dust or clay. That can affect drainage and compaction, especially if you’re using it for something structural.

So ask:

• Is it washed?

• Is it screened?

• Is the size consistent?

You’re not being difficult. You’re making sure you’re paying for usable material.

5. Are There Extra Fees?

This one… always ask.

Fuel surcharges. Distance fees. Small-load fees. Weekend delivery charges.

Instead of being surprised later, just ask upfront:

• Is delivery included in the price?

• Is there a minimum order?

• Are there extra fees based on distance?

Clear numbers make planning easier.

6. Do We Need Fabric Under It?

Some projects benefit from landscape fabric. Others don’t.

Under decorative paths, fabric can help with weeds. Under heavy driveways, some contractors skip it and rely on a strong compacted base instead.

Ask your supplier what they usually recommend for your type of project and soil. They’ve probably seen what works locally.

7. How Soon Can It Be Delivered?

Sometimes suppliers can deliver the same day. Sometimes they’re booked out for a week.

If your project has a schedule, don’t assume.

Ask:

• What’s your current delivery timeline?

• Can you schedule a specific time window?

• Do you offer weekend delivery?

It’s a small question that prevents big frustration.

Final Thoughts

Ordering Gravel & Crushed Rock isn’t complicated… but it’s also not as simple as “just drop it off.”

Once you ask a few smart questions and talk openly with local gravel suppliers, everything gets easier. You get the right material, the right amount, and fewer surprises on delivery day.

And honestly? That alone reduces half the stress of the project.

FAQs

1. What is the most common gravel size for driveways?

¾-inch crushed rock is very common because it compacts well and stays in place under traffic.

2. How much does one cubic yard of gravel cover?

Roughly 100 square feet at about 3 inches deep. Coverage changes depending on depth.

3. Is rounded gravel okay for walkways?

It can be used, but it tends to shift underfoot. Angular gravel usually feels more stable.

4. Should I put landscape fabric under gravel?

It depends on the project and soil. It can help with weed control, but it’s not always necessary for structural areas.

5. Can gravel be delivered to narrow driveways?

Yes, but you need to tell the supplier ahead of time. They may use a smaller truck or make multiple trips.