Metric to Imperial Weight Conversions

A metric tonne is 1,000 kg (2,204.6 lb). An imperial (long) ton is 2,240 lb (1,016 kg). A US (short) ton is 2,000 lb (907 kg). In UK construction, the metric tonne is standard — aggregates, concrete, and bulk materials are all sold by the tonne. The difference between a metric tonne and an imperial ton is less than 2%, so for rough site estimates they are often treated as equivalent.

A standard bag of cement in the UK weighs 25 kg (approximately 55 lb). This changed from the traditional 50 kg bag to comply with manual handling regulations (the HSE recommends a maximum of 25 kg for regular lifting). A bag of sand or aggregate typically weighs 25 kg as well. A bulk (tonne) bag weighs approximately 850-1000 kg depending on the material and packing.

Standard ready-mix concrete weighs approximately 2,400 kg per cubic metre (2.4 tonnes). Lightweight concrete (using lightweight aggregates) weighs approximately 1,400-1,800 kg/m³. A 6 m³ concrete truck therefore carries approximately 14.4 tonnes of concrete. Reinforced concrete is typically assumed at 2,500 kg/m³ to account for the steel reinforcement.