Kilogram to Ton (US) Converter
Convert kilograms to US tons with our free online weight converter.
Quick Answer
1 Kilogram = 0.001102 US tons
Formula: Kilogram × conversion factor = Ton (US)
Use the calculator below for instant, accurate conversions.
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All conversion formulas on UnitsConverter.io have been verified against NIST (National Institute of Standards and Technology) guidelines and international SI standards. Our calculations are accurate to 10 decimal places for standard conversions and use arbitrary precision arithmetic for astronomical units.
Kilogram to Ton (US) Calculator
How to Use the Kilogram to Ton (US) Calculator:
- Enter the value you want to convert in the 'From' field (Kilogram).
- The converted value in Ton (US) will appear automatically in the 'To' field.
- Use the dropdown menus to select different units within the Weight category.
- Click the swap button (⇌) to reverse the conversion direction.
How to Convert Kilogram to Ton (US): Step-by-Step Guide
Converting Kilogram to Ton (US) involves multiplying the value by a specific conversion factor, as shown in the formula below.
Formula:
1 Kilogram = 0.00110231 US tonsExample Calculation:
Convert 5 kilograms: 5 × 0.00110231 = 0.00551155 US tons
Disclaimer: For Reference Only
These conversion results are provided for informational purposes only. While we strive for accuracy, we make no guarantees regarding the precision of these results, especially for conversions involving extremely large or small numbers which may be subject to the inherent limitations of standard computer floating-point arithmetic.
Not for professional use. Results should be verified before use in any critical application. View our Terms of Service for more information.
Need to convert to other weight units?
View all Weight conversions →What is a Kilogram and a Ton (US)?
The kilogram (symbol: kg) is the base unit of mass in the International System of Units (SI). It is one of the seven SI base units and forms the foundation for measuring mass and weight in the metric system.
Modern Definition (2019): The kilogram is defined by fixing the numerical value of the Planck constant (h) to be exactly 6.62607015×10⁻³⁴ joule-seconds (J⋅s). This definition, adopted on May 20, 2019 (World Metrology Day), replaced the previous definition based on a physical artifact.
Key relationships:
- 1 kilogram = 1,000 grams (g)
- 1 kilogram = 1,000,000 milligrams (mg)
- 1 kilogram = 0.001 metric tons (tonnes)
- 1,000 kilograms = 1 metric ton
In terms of imperial/US customary units:
- 1 kilogram ≈ 2.20462 pounds (lb) - Convert kg to lb
- 1 kilogram ≈ 35.274 ounces (oz) - Convert kg to oz
- 1 kilogram ≈ 0.157 stones (st) - Convert kg to stones
Visual perspective (how heavy is it?):
- 1 kg ≈ Liter bottle of water
- 1 kg ≈ Small laptop or tablet
- 1 kg ≈ Bag of sugar
- 1 kg ≈ Two pineapples
- 5 kg ≈ Newborn baby
- 10 kg ≈ Small dog or cat
Important distinction: While "mass" and "weight" are scientifically different (mass is the amount of matter, weight is gravitational force), in everyday usage, kilograms measure what we commonly call "weight."
Convert between weight units: kilogram converter
What Is a US Ton?
The US ton (officially called the short ton) is a unit of mass in the United States customary measurement system, defined as:
- Exactly 2,000 pounds (avoirdupois pounds)
- Exactly 32,000 ounces
- Exactly 907.18474 kilograms (by definition from 1959 international agreement)
- 20 hundredweight (where 1 hundredweight = 100 pounds in US system)
The US ton is the standard unit for measuring heavy loads in American commerce, transportation regulations, construction materials, and industrial applications.
US Ton vs. Metric: Key Comparison
US Ton (Short Ton):
- 2,000 pounds (exactly)
- 907.185 kilograms (907.18474 kg precisely)
- Used in United States for trucks, cargo, materials
- Based on 2,000-pound commercial standard
Metric Tonne:
- 1,000 kilograms (exactly)
- 2,204.623 pounds (about 2,205 lb)
- Global standard for international trade, shipping, emissions
- Based on metric system (1,000 kg)
Visual comparison:
- A metric tonne is about 92.8 kg heavier than a US ton (about 205 lb more)
- 1 metric tonne = 1.102 US tons (about 10% heavier)
- 1 US ton = 0.907 metric tonnes (about 10% lighter)
Commercial impact: A 20-ton truck in the US (40,000 lb) equals 18.14 metric tonnes. A 20-tonne truck in Europe (20,000 kg) equals 22.05 US tons. This distinction matters for international shipping, vehicle regulations, and trade contracts.
US Ton vs. Long Ton (UK)
US Ton (Short Ton):
- 2,000 pounds (20 hundredweight × 100 lb)
- 907.185 kg
- Standard in United States
Long Ton (Imperial Ton, UK):
- 2,240 pounds (20 hundredweight × 112 lb)
- 1,016.047 kg
- 12% heavier than US ton
- Used historically in UK, now largely replaced by metric tonne
Difference: The long ton is 240 pounds heavier than the US ton. This originated from different definitions of "hundredweight"—the US uses 100 lb, while the UK traditionally used 112 lb.
When it matters: Historical shipping documents, UK coal trade, and older engineering specifications may reference "tons" meaning long tons (2,240 lb), not US short tons (2,000 lb).
Note: The Kilogram is part of the metric (SI) system, primarily used globally in science and trade. The Ton (US) belongs to the imperial/US customary system.
History of the Kilogram and Ton (US)
-
French Revolution Origins (1795): During the development of the metric system, French scientists defined the "grave" (later renamed kilogram) as the mass of one cubic decimeter (liter) of pure water at 4°C (its maximum density). This provided a definition based on nature rather than arbitrary standards.
-
Kilogram des Archives (1799): The first physical standard was created - a platinum cylinder kept in the French National Archives in Paris. This "Kilogram of the Archives" served as France's official kilogram standard.
-
Treaty of the Metre (1875): Seventeen nations signed this international treaty, establishing global cooperation on measurement standards. This set the stage for creating an international kilogram prototype.
-
International Prototype Kilogram - Le Grand K (1889): A precisely machined platinum-iridium (90% platinum, 10% iridium) cylinder was created and designated as the international standard. This cylinder, known as "Le Grand K" or the IPK, was:
- 39 millimeters in both height and diameter
- Stored under three nested bell jars at the BIPM in Sèvres, France
- The only SI unit still defined by a physical artifact (until 2019)
- Accessed only rarely for calibration purposes
-
The Problem with Le Grand K: Over time, scientists discovered that the IPK's mass was changing relative to its copies - by approximately 50 micrograms over a century. This was problematic because:
- The kilogram was drifting from its official definition
- No way to verify if the prototype was gaining or losing mass
- Physical objects can be damaged, contaminated, or lost
- Limited access meant difficult calibrations worldwide
-
Search for a New Definition (1990s-2010s): Scientists developed two approaches:
- Kibble Balance (formerly watt balance): Relates mass to electromagnetic force and the Planck constant
- Avogadro Project: Count atoms in a silicon sphere to define the kilogram
-
2019 Redefinition: On May 20, 2019 (World Metrology Day), the kilogram definition changed:
- Old: Mass of the International Prototype Kilogram
- New: Defined by fixing the Planck constant at exactly 6.62607015×10⁻³⁴ J⋅s
- This allows any properly equipped laboratory to reproduce the kilogram
- No longer depends on a physical object that could change or be damaged
-
Why the Planck Constant?: This quantum mechanical constant relates energy to frequency and appears in fundamental physics equations. By fixing its value, mass can be measured using electromagnetic force through a Kibble balance.
-
Global Impact: The kilogram is used by virtually every country worldwide. Even the United States, which uses pounds in daily life, uses kilograms extensively in:
- Scientific research
- International trade
- Medical dosing
- Manufacturing
- Athletics and sports
-
Historical Significance: The 2019 redefinition was the culmination of over a century of metrological advancement, representing humanity's shift from physical artifacts to universal physical constants.
Etymology: The "Tun" Wine Cask
The word "ton" derives from the medieval "tun," a large wine barrel or cask used for transporting and storing wine. A standard tun held approximately 252 wine gallons and weighed roughly 2,000 pounds when full.
This practical origin meant "ton" became synonymous with "very heavy load"—approximately the weight that could be carried in one tun cask. The measurement evolved from this real-world shipping container into a standardized unit of weight.
English Origins: Competing Ton Standards
In medieval and early modern England, multiple "ton" standards coexisted, creating confusion in commerce:
1. Wine Ton (Tun): ~2,000 pounds, based on wine cask weight 2. Long Ton: 2,240 pounds, based on 20 long hundredweight (20 × 112 lb) 3. Shipping Ton: Volume-based, used for calculating cargo space, not weight
The long ton (2,240 lb) became the official British standard, formalized in the British Imperial system in 1824. It was calculated as 20 hundredweight, where 1 hundredweight (cwt) = 112 pounds (8 stone × 14 lb/stone).
The short ton (2,000 lb) remained in common commercial use, especially in trades dealing with bulk commodities. It represented 20 hundredweight of 100 pounds each, a simpler rounding for everyday commerce.
American Adoption: The Short Ton (2,000 Pounds)
When American colonists inherited English measurement systems, both long ton (2,240 lb) and short ton (2,000 lb) were in use. After independence, the United States faced a choice between standardizing on one or the other.
Reasons the US chose the short ton (2,000 lb):
- Simpler arithmetic: 2,000 is easier to divide and calculate than 2,240
- Commercial preference: The 2,000-pound ton was already common in American trade
- Hundredweight definition: The US standardized on 100-pound hundredweight (rather than 112 lb), making 20 × 100 = 2,000 lb logical
- Decimal thinking: 2,000 fits better with base-10 calculations
In 1832, the US Treasury Department formally adopted the 2,000-pound ton as the standard US ton, distinguishing it as the "short ton" to differentiate from the British "long ton" (2,240 lb).
Metric Definition (1959)
The 1959 International Yard and Pound Agreement refined the US ton's definition in metric terms:
- 1 pound = 0.45359237 kilograms (exactly)
- 1 US ton = 2,000 pounds = 907.18474 kilograms (exactly)
This metric definition ended ambiguity about the ton's exact mass in international contexts and established clear conversion factors for trade between US customary and metric systems.
Modern Usage: Persistent in US, Metric Elsewhere
Today, the US ton remains dominant in American industry despite global metrication:
Why the US ton persists in America:
- Transportation regulations: Federal trucking regulations use tons (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating in tons)
- Construction pricing: Gravel, sand, concrete priced per ton (2,000 lb)
- Cultural inertia: Generations of American industry built around ton-based systems
- Equipment design: Trucks, scales, loading equipment calibrated in tons
Global trend toward metric tonnes:
- International shipping: Maritime cargo measured in metric tonnes (1,000 kg)
- Carbon emissions: Greenhouse gases measured in tonnes CO2 (metric)
- Scientific use: Research and engineering use metric tonnes exclusively
- Trade contracts: International agreements specify metric tonnes to avoid confusion
Result: The US is the only major economy still using short tons as the primary heavy-weight standard, requiring constant conversion for international commerce.
Common Uses and Applications: kilograms vs US tons
Explore the typical applications for both Kilogram (metric) and Ton (US) (imperial/US) to understand their common contexts.
Common Uses for kilograms
The kilogram is the universal standard for mass measurement across virtually all applications worldwide:
Science and Research
The fundamental unit for mass in all scientific disciplines. Essential for chemistry, physics, biology, medicine, and engineering research conducted globally.
Scientific Applications:
- Chemistry: Measuring reactants, products, and samples
- Physics: Mass calculations in mechanics and dynamics
- Biology: Specimen weights, culture media
- Medicine: Drug dosing, patient measurements
- Materials science: Sample preparation and analysis
- Environmental science: Pollution measurements, soil samples
Why kilograms in science:
- SI base unit (international standard)
- Decimal-based for easy calculations
- Defined by fundamental constant (Planck constant)
- Required for publication in scientific journals
- Universal reproducibility in any laboratory
Convert for scientific work: kilograms to other units
Healthcare and Medicine
Standard for patient weight, drug dosing, and medical calculations in hospitals and clinics worldwide. Critical for accurate treatment.
Medical uses:
- Patient weight: Baseline health measurement
- Drug dosing: Many medications dosed per kg body weight
- Pediatric care: Growth charts in kg and cm
- BMI calculation: Weight (kg) ÷ height² (m)
- Fluid management: IV fluids calculated by body weight
- Nutritional assessment: Protein needs, calorie requirements
- Medical research: Study participant measurements
Dosing examples:
- Pediatric antibiotics: 10-15 mg per kg body weight
- Anesthesia: Calculated per kg
- Chemotherapy: Often dosed per kg or body surface area
- Emergency medications: Weight-based dosing critical
Why critical in medicine:
- Precision prevents overdosing or underdosing
- International medical protocols use kg
- Pediatric safety depends on accurate weights
- Research requires standardized measurements
Food Industry and Nutrition
Standard unit for food packaging, recipes, nutritional labels, and commercial food sales in metric countries and international trade.
Food industry uses:
- Packaging labels: "Net weight: 1 kg"
- Commercial sales: Produce sold per kg
- Nutritional information: Values per 100g or serving
- Recipe scaling: Professional cooking in kg
- Food safety: Portion control, serving sizes
- Import/export: International food trade
- Restaurant supplies: Ingredients ordered in kg
Retail examples:
- Fruits and vegetables: Priced per kg
- Meat and fish: Sold by kg or portion
- Bulk foods: Rice, flour, nuts sold in kg bags
- Deli counters: Sliced meats weighed in kg
Shipping and Logistics
International standard for package weight, freight calculations, and postal rates. Essential for global commerce and transportation.
Shipping applications:
- Package weight limits: Carriers specify max kg
- Freight charges: Calculated per kg or dimensional weight
- Postal rates: Tiered by kg (0-2 kg, 2-5 kg, etc.)
- Air cargo: Charged per kg
- Container shipping: Weight limits in kg
- Customs declarations: Product weights in kg
- Warehouse inventory: Stock measured in kg
Standard limits:
- Small parcel: Up to 2 kg
- Standard parcel: 2-20 kg
- Heavy parcel: 20-30 kg
- Freight: 30+ kg
Why kg in shipping:
- International standard (UPU uses kg)
- Simplifies cross-border shipping
- Aviation industry uses kg
- Maritime shipping uses metric tons (1,000 kg)
Athletics and Sports
Standard for athlete weight classes, equipment specifications, and performance measurements in international competition.
Weight classes (examples):
- Boxing: Flyweight (< 51 kg), Welterweight (< 69 kg), Heavyweight (> 91 kg)
- Wrestling: Multiple classes from 57 kg to 125 kg
- Weightlifting: Classes from 55 kg to 109+ kg
- MMA: Featherweight (66 kg), Middleweight (84 kg), etc.
- Rowing: Lightweight (< 72.5 kg men, < 59 kg women)
- Judo: Multiple classes from 60 kg to 100+ kg
Equipment standards:
- Shot put: 7.26 kg (men), 4 kg (women)
- Discus: 2 kg (men), 1 kg (women)
- Javelin: 800 g (men), 600 g (women)
- Hammer throw: 7.26 kg (men), 4 kg (women)
Performance metrics:
- Clean and jerk records (kg lifted)
- Total weight lifted in competitions
- Body composition tracking
Manufacturing and Industry
Critical for quality control, material specifications, and product development. Enables consistent production and international standards.
Manufacturing uses:
- Raw materials: Ordered and inventoried in kg
- Product specifications: Component weights in kg or grams
- Quality control: Weight tolerance checking
- Batch production: Recipe scaling by kg
- Packaging: Box and pallet weights
- Shipping calculations: Product + packaging weight
- Waste management: Scrap material measured in kg
Industries:
- Automotive: Vehicle weight specifications
- Aerospace: Critical weight calculations
- Pharmaceuticals: Active ingredient quantities
- Chemicals: Formulation by weight
- Textiles: Fabric weight per square meter (GSM)
Agriculture and Farming
Standard for crop yields, animal weights, feed quantities, and agricultural commodities worldwide.
Agricultural uses:
- Crop yields: Tons per hectare (1,000 kg = 1 ton)
- Livestock weights: Animal growth tracking
- Feed calculations: Feed ratios per kg body weight
- Fertilizer application: kg per hectare
- Produce sales: Market prices per kg
- Seed quantities: Planting rates in kg/hectare
- Harvest records: Total yield in kg or tons
Example yields:
- Wheat: 3,000-8,000 kg/hectare
- Corn: 5,000-12,000 kg/hectare
- Rice: 4,000-10,000 kg/hectare
Everyday Life (Metric Countries)
Daily measurements for body weight, shopping, cooking, and general household use in 95% of the world's countries.
Personal use:
- Body weight tracking (bathroom scale)
- Grocery shopping (price per kg)
- Cooking and baking (recipe measurements)
- Luggage weight (travel)
- Baby weight monitoring (growth charts)
- Fitness tracking (weight loss/gain goals)
- Pet weight (veterinary care)
Use our kilogram converter for everyday conversions.
When to Use US tons
1. Trucking and Transportation Regulations
Federal trucking regulations:
- Weight limits: Federal limit 80,000 lb (40 tons) gross vehicle weight on interstate highways
- Bridge formulas: Determine allowable weight based on axle spacing
- Weight stations: Weigh trucks to ensure compliance (fines for overweight)
Vehicle classification by GVWR:
- Class 1-2: Up to 10,000 lb (5 tons) — pickups, vans
- Class 3: 10,001-14,000 lb (5-7 tons) — heavy-duty pickups
- Class 4-6: 14,001-26,000 lb (7-13 tons) — box trucks, delivery trucks
- Class 7-8: 26,001-80,000 lb (13-40 tons) — semis, dump trucks, tractor-trailers
Commercial driver's license (CDL) requirements:
- CDL required: Vehicles over 26,000 lb (13 tons) GVWR
- Special endorsements: Hazmat, tanker, double/triple trailers
2. Construction and Building Materials
Material purchasing:
- Bulk materials: Gravel, sand, topsoil, mulch ordered by the ton
- Delivery trucks: 10-ton, 15-ton, 20-ton capacity standard sizes
- Pricing: Per-ton pricing typical ($20-$100/ton depending on material)
Structural engineering:
- Load calculations: Building load capacity measured in tons (tons per square foot)
- Crane capacity: Cranes rated by maximum lift capacity in tons (e.g., 50-ton crane)
- Equipment weight: Bulldozers, excavators specified by operating weight in tons
Concrete and cement:
- Ready-mix trucks: 8-10 cubic yard capacity (~16-20 tons wet concrete)
- Cement bags: 94 lb bags; ~21 bags = 1 ton cement
- Foundation loads: Structural loads calculated in tons
3. Waste Management and Environmental Services
Municipal solid waste:
- Collection fees: Often based on tonnage (residential flat fee, commercial per ton)
- Landfill tipping fees: $30-$100 per ton (varies by region, landfill type)
- Transfer stations: Weigh incoming waste by ton for billing and tracking
Recycling markets:
- Material pricing: Cardboard, metals, plastics traded by ton
- Scrap metal: Auto scrap, structural steel sold by ton to recyclers
- Commodity markets: Recycled materials priced per ton (fluctuates with demand)
Environmental reporting:
- Emissions: Industrial facilities report emissions in tons (NOx, SOx, PM)
- Waste reduction goals: "Divert 10,000 tons from landfills annually"
- Composting: Organic waste diverted measured in tons
4. Maritime and Port Operations
Cargo handling (US ports):
- Container weights: Listed in both tons (US) and metric tonnes (international)
- Crane capacity: Gantry cranes rated in tons lifting capacity
- Ballast water: Ship ballast measured in tons
Vessel tonnage (historical short ton use):
- Gross tonnage (GT): Volume-based ship size measurement (100 cubic feet = 1 register ton)
- Deadweight tonnage (DWT): Weight capacity, now primarily metric tonnes
- Displacement tonnage: Weight of water displaced, traditionally long tons, now metric
US domestic shipping:
- Great Lakes shipping: Often uses short tons for iron ore, coal, grain shipments
- Coastal shipping: Barge loads measured in tons
5. Industrial Manufacturing
Raw material purchasing:
- Steel, aluminum, copper: Purchased by the ton
- Chemicals: Bulk chemicals ordered in ton quantities
- Plastics: Resin pellets sold by ton
Production capacity:
- Steel mill: "Produces 2 million tons steel per year"
- Cement plant: "10,000 tons clinker production per day"
- Paper mill: "500 tons paper production per day"
Heavy machinery:
- Equipment weight: Specified in tons (e.g., "150-ton hydraulic press")
- Material handling: Forklifts, cranes rated by ton capacity
- Foundry operations: Ladle capacity measured in tons of molten metal
6. Agriculture and Commodity Trading
Crop production:
- Yield reporting: "Harvested 5,000 tons corn" or "200 bushels/acre"
- Storage: Grain elevators capacity measured in tons
- Trading: Commodity futures traded in tons or metric tonnes
Livestock operations:
- Feed consumption: "Dairy consumes 1,500 tons feed per year"
- Manure management: Measured in tons for spreading, composting
- Livestock hauling: Trailer capacity rated in tons
Farm equipment:
- Tractor weight: Specified in tons (affects traction, field compaction)
- Implements: Plow, harrow weight measured in tons
7. Energy and Mining
Coal industry:
- Mining production: Measured in tons per day/year
- Transportation: Coal trains (100+ cars × 100 tons = 10,000+ ton trains)
- Power generation: Plant fuel consumption measured in tons/day
Mining operations:
- Ore extraction: Production measured in tons mined per day
- Haul trucks: Mining dump trucks carry 100-400 tons per load
- Processing capacity: "Processes 50,000 tons ore per day"
Oil and gas (weight measurements):
- Equipment: Drilling rigs, platforms specified by weight in tons
- Offshore installations: Platform deck capacity measured in tons
Additional Unit Information
About Kilogram (kg)
How much is 1 kilogram visually?
One kilogram is about the weight of a liter bottle of water or a small laptop.
Visual comparisons:
- 1 liter of water: Exactly 1 kg (at 4°C)
- Bag of sugar: Typically 1 kg or 2 kg
- Small laptop: 1-1.5 kg
- Two pineapples: About 1 kg total
- Medium-sized book: Approximately 1 kg
- Loaf of bread: About 0.5-0.8 kg (1 kg for larger loaves)
Body reference:
- For most people, 1 kg is slightly heavier than can be easily held in one hand for extended periods
- About 2-3% of average adult body weight
To remember: Picture a standard milk or water bottle (1 liter) - that's 1 kilogram.
How many pounds are in a kilogram?
One kilogram equals approximately 2.20462 pounds, commonly rounded to 2.2 pounds.
Exact conversion: 1 kilogram = 2.204622622 pounds
Practical conversions:
- 1 kg ≈ 2.2 lb
- 5 kg ≈ 11 lb
- 10 kg ≈ 22 lb
- 50 kg ≈ 110 lb
- 70 kg ≈ 154 lb
- 100 kg ≈ 220 lb
Reverse conversion (pounds to kilograms):
- 1 pound = 0.453592 kg (about 0.45 kg)
- 10 pounds ≈ 4.5 kg
- 100 pounds ≈ 45.4 kg
- 150 pounds ≈ 68 kg
- 200 pounds ≈ 90.7 kg
Quick mental math:
- Multiply kg by 2 and add 10% for rough estimate
- Example: 50 kg × 2 = 100, + 10% = 110 lb
Use our kg to pounds converter for accurate conversions.
What is the difference between kilogram and gram?
Kilogram (kg) is 1,000 times larger than gram (g).
The relationship:
- 1 kilogram = 1,000 grams
- 1 gram = 0.001 kilograms (or 1/1,000 kg)
Conversion:
- To convert kg to g: multiply by 1,000
- To convert g to kg: divide by 1,000
When to use which:
Use grams (g) for:
- Small quantities (< 1 kg)
- Food ingredients (200g flour, 500g meat)
- Precious metals (gold, silver by the gram)
- Medications (pills in mg or g)
- Postal items under 1 kg
Use kilograms (kg) for:
- Body weight
- Larger food packages
- Most everyday objects
- Shipping packages
- Sports equipment
Examples:
- Smartphone: 200 grams = 0.2 kg
- Laptop: 1,500 grams = 1.5 kg
- Bag of rice: 5,000 grams = 5 kg
- Person: 70,000 grams = 70 kg
Convert: kg to grams | grams to kg
Is the kilogram used in the United States?
Yes and no - it depends on the context.
Where kilograms ARE used in the US:
- Science and research: All scientific work
- Medicine: Drug dosing, patient weights in hospitals
- Manufacturing: Especially export products
- Athletics: Olympic sports, international competition
- Import/export: International trade
- Automotive: Vehicle specifications (increasingly)
- Pharmaceuticals: All measurements
- Military: NATO standardization
Where kilograms are NOT commonly used:
- Grocery stores (pounds, not kg)
- Body weight (people say pounds)
- Cooking (recipes use cups, ounces)
- Bathroom scales (typically show pounds)
- Everyday conversation
- Food packaging (labeled in oz, lb)
The dual system:
- US products often show both: "1 lb (454g)" or "Net Wt 16 oz (1 lb) 453g"
- Scientific calculators and medical equipment use kg
- US is officially metric but hasn't converted fully
Fun fact: US currency is metric (100 cents = 1 dollar), but few Americans realize this!
How many grams are in a kilogram?
There are exactly 1,000 grams (g) in one kilogram.
Why 1,000?: The prefix "kilo-" means 1,000.
Conversion:
- 1 kilogram (kg) = 1,000 grams (g)
- To convert kg to g: multiply by 1,000
- To convert g to kg: divide by 1,000
Examples:
- 0.5 kg = 500 grams
- 1.5 kg = 1,500 grams
- 2.75 kg = 2,750 grams
- 5 kg = 5,000 grams
- 10 kg = 10,000 grams
Remember: Move the decimal point three places:
- Kg → g: Move right (1.5 kg = 1,500 g)
- G → kg: Move left (1,500 g = 1.5 kg)
Common weights:
- Smartphone: 150-250 g = 0.15-0.25 kg
- Bag of sugar: 1,000 g = 1 kg
- Newborn baby: 3,000-4,000 g = 3-4 kg
Use our kg to grams converter for instant conversions.
How is the kilogram defined today?
Current Definition (since May 20, 2019): The kilogram is defined by fixing the numerical value of the Planck constant at exactly 6.62607015×10⁻³⁴ joule-seconds (J⋅s).
What this means:
- No longer based on a physical object (the old platinum-iridium cylinder)
- Based on a fundamental constant of quantum mechanics
- Can be reproduced in any properly equipped laboratory worldwide
- Uses a device called a "Kibble balance" (formerly watt balance)
- Incredibly stable and will never change
Why this definition?:
- Universal: The Planck constant is the same everywhere in the universe
- Reproducible: Any lab with the right equipment can measure it
- Permanent: Physical objects degrade; constants don't
- Precise: More accurate than artifact-based definition
How it works: A Kibble balance measures mass by balancing it against electromagnetic force. By fixing the Planck constant, the electromagnetic force precisely defines mass.
Historical evolution:
- 1795: Mass of 1 liter of water
- 1889: Physical prototype (Le Grand K)
- 2019: Planck constant (current definition)
Why it matters: This was the last SI base unit to be redefined based on fundamental constants, completing the modernization of the metric system.
What does "kg" stand for?
"kg" is the symbol for kilogram.
Breaking it down:
- kilo-: Greek prefix meaning 1,000
- gram: Base unit of mass in the metric system
- kilogram: Literally "1,000 grams"
Symbol rules:
- Always lowercase "k" (not "Kg" or "KG")
- Lowercase "g"
- No period after "kg"
- Space between number and symbol: "5 kg" (not "5kg")
Other kilo- units:
- kilometer (km) = 1,000 meters
- kilowatt (kW) = 1,000 watts
- kilojoule (kJ) = 1,000 joules
- kilobyte (kB or KB) = 1,000 bytes
Interesting fact: The kilogram is unique among SI base units because it already contains a prefix ("kilo-"). The base unit is actually the gram, but kilogram is the official SI base unit for mass.
How do you convert kilograms to ounces?
To convert kilograms to ounces, multiply by approximately 35.274.
Conversion formula: ounces = kilograms × 35.274
Examples:
- 1 kg = 35.3 ounces
- 0.5 kg = 17.6 ounces
- 2 kg = 70.5 ounces
- 5 kg = 176.4 ounces
- 10 kg = 352.7 ounces
Reverse conversion (ounces to kilograms):
- 1 ounce = 0.0283495 kg (about 28.35 grams)
- 16 ounces (1 pound) = 0.4536 kg
- 32 ounces = 0.907 kg
- 100 ounces = 2.835 kg
Why 35.274?
- 1 kg = 2.20462 pounds
- 1 pound = 16 ounces
- 2.20462 × 16 = 35.274 ounces per kilogram
Quick mental math:
- 1 kg ≈ 35 oz (close enough for estimates)
- 0.5 kg ≈ 18 oz (just over 1 pound)
Use our kg to ounces converter for precise conversions.
What is 70 kg in pounds?
70 kilograms = 154.32 pounds (commonly rounded to 154 pounds).
Calculation: 70 kg × 2.20462 lb/kg = 154.32 lb
Context:
- Average adult: 70 kg is a typical weight for an average-height adult
- Healthy weight: For a 5'10" (178 cm) person, 70 kg is within healthy range
- Athletes: Many athletes in various sports weigh around 70 kg
Nearby conversions:
- 65 kg = 143 lb
- 70 kg = 154 lb
- 75 kg = 165 lb
- 80 kg = 176 lb
Body weight ranges (approximate):
- 50 kg = 110 lb (petite adult)
- 60 kg = 132 lb (average woman)
- 70 kg = 154 lb (average man)
- 80 kg = 176 lb (athletic/large build)
- 90 kg = 198 lb (large adult)
- 100 kg = 220 lb (very large adult)
Convert any weight: kg to pounds converter
How much does a kilogram weigh on Earth?
On Earth, 1 kilogram has a weight of approximately 9.8 newtons (N) at sea level.
Important distinction:
- Mass: 1 kilogram (constant everywhere)
- Weight: Force due to gravity = mass × gravitational acceleration
- On Earth: Weight (N) = 1 kg × 9.8 m/s² = 9.8 N
What this means:
- Your mass stays 1 kg everywhere
- Your weight changes based on gravitational strength
- On Earth, we feel this as "weight"
Weight on other celestial bodies (for 1 kg mass):
- Moon: 1.6 N (about 1/6 of Earth)
- Mars: 3.7 N (about 3/8 of Earth)
- Jupiter: 24.8 N (about 2.5× Earth)
- Sun: 274 N (about 28× Earth)
- International Space Station: ~8.7 N (microgravity, but not zero)
Why we say "weight in kilograms": In everyday language, "weight" means mass. Technically incorrect, but universally understood. Scientists use "mass in kilograms" and "weight in newtons" for precision.
Remember: Your bathroom scale measures mass (kg), not weight (newtons), but we casually call it "weight."
What is a metric ton vs kilogram?
Metric ton (also called tonne) = 1,000 kilograms.
The relationship:
- 1 metric ton = 1,000 kg
- 1 kilogram = 0.001 metric tons
Symbols:
- Metric ton: t or MT or tonne
- Kilogram: kg
When to use which:
Use kilograms (kg) for:
- Individual weights (< 1,000 kg)
- Body weight, packages, products
- Most everyday measurements
Use metric tons (tonnes) for:
- Heavy vehicles (cars, trucks)
- Industrial materials
- Bulk commodities
- Cargo shipping
- Agricultural yields
Examples:
- Small car: 1,000-1,500 kg = 1-1.5 metric tons
- Elephant: 5,000 kg = 5 metric tons
- Shipping container: 20,000-30,000 kg = 20-30 metric tons
- Wheat harvest: 100,000 kg = 100 metric tons
Confusion alert:
- Metric ton (1,000 kg) ≠ US ton (2,000 lb = 907 kg)
- Metric ton (1,000 kg) ≠ UK ton (2,240 lb = 1,016 kg)
- Always specify which ton!
Convert: kg to metric tons | metric tons to kg
About Ton (US) (ton)
How many pounds are in a US ton?
There are exactly 2,000 pounds (lb) in 1 US ton (short ton).
Quick conversion:
- 1 ton = 2,000 lb
- 0.5 ton = 1,000 lb
- 2 tons = 4,000 lb
- 10 tons = 20,000 lb
This is the defining relationship: the US ton is defined as exactly 2,000 avoirdupois pounds.
Is the US ton the same as the UK ton?
No. The US ton (short ton) is smaller than the traditional UK ton (long ton):
- US ton (short ton): 2,000 lb = 907.185 kg
- UK long ton: 2,240 lb = 1,016.047 kg
- Difference: The long ton is 240 lb (12%) heavier than the US ton
Modern UK usage: Today, the UK primarily uses metric tonnes (1,000 kg = 2,205 lb), not long tons. Long tons are historical and rarely used in modern commerce.
When it matters: Historical shipping documents, old engineering specifications, and traditional industries (coal mining, maritime) may reference long tons.
What is the difference between a ton and a tonne?
"Ton" (US short ton) and "tonne" (metric tonne) are different units:
US Ton (Short Ton):
- 2,000 pounds (exactly)
- 907.185 kilograms
- Used in United States
- Symbol: ton, st, US ton
Metric Tonne:
- 1,000 kilograms (exactly)
- 2,204.6 pounds
- Used internationally
- Symbol: t, tonne, MT
Key difference: The metric tonne is about 10% heavier (93 kg or 205 lb more) than the US ton.
Spelling note: "Tonne" (with "ne") specifically means metric tonne; "ton" can mean US short ton or UK long ton, requiring clarification.
How do you convert US tons to metric tonnes?
To convert US tons to metric tonnes, multiply by 0.907185 (or approximately 0.9):
Formula:
metric tonnes = US tons × 0.907185
Examples:
- 1 ton = 0.907 tonnes (just under 1 tonne)
- 10 tons = 9.07 tonnes (about 10% lighter)
- 100 tons = 90.7 tonnes
Reverse conversion (tonnes to tons):
US tons = metric tonnes × 1.102311
- 1 tonne ≈ 1.102 tons (about 10% heavier)
- 10 tonnes ≈ 11.02 tons
Practical approximation: For rough estimates, 1 ton ≈ 0.9 tonnes, or 1 tonne ≈ 1.1 tons.
Where is the US ton used?
The US ton (short ton) is primarily used in the United States for:
Industries and applications:
- Transportation: Trucking regulations, vehicle weight ratings (GVWR)
- Construction: Pricing gravel, sand, concrete, steel by the ton
- Waste management: Landfill fees, recycling tonnages
- Shipping: Domestic cargo weights, freight billing
- Agriculture: Crop yields, livestock feed, commodity trading
- Mining: Coal production, ore extraction
- Manufacturing: Steel, cement, paper production
International use: Almost all other countries use metric tonnes (1,000 kg) instead of US tons. The US is the only major economy still using short tons as the primary heavy-weight standard.
Trade caution: International shipping and trade contracts typically specify metric tonnes to avoid confusion between US tons, long tons, and metric tonnes.
What does "half-ton truck" mean?
"Half-ton truck" is a historical classification for light-duty pickup trucks, not a precise measurement of payload capacity.
Traditional meaning: Originally, "half-ton" meant the truck could carry approximately 1,000 lb (0.5 ton) payload.
Modern reality: Today's "half-ton" trucks (Class 2A) typically have payload capacities of 1,500-2,500 lb (0.75-1.25 tons)—often exceeding the historical "half-ton" rating.
Common "half-ton" models:
- Ford F-150
- Chevrolet Silverado 1500
- Ram 1500
- Toyota Tundra
- Nissan Titan
Other truck classifications:
- Half-ton (Class 2A): ~6,000-7,000 lb GVWR, ~1,500-2,000 lb payload
- Three-quarter-ton (Class 2B): ~8,500-10,000 lb GVWR, ~2,500-3,500 lb payload
- One-ton (Class 3): ~10,000-14,000 lb GVWR, ~3,000-4,500 lb payload
Important: Always check the vehicle's GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating) and payload capacity listed on the door jamb sticker or owner's manual, not the truck's name.
How much does a ton of gravel weigh?
This question seems circular, but it's asking about volume-to-weight relationship:
By definition: 1 ton of gravel = 2,000 pounds (that's what "ton" means)
But the real question is: How much volume (cubic yards)?
Volume equivalence:
- 1 ton of gravel ≈ 0.60-0.75 cubic yards (depending on gravel type and compaction)
- Loose gravel: 1 ton ≈ 0.75 cubic yards
- Compacted gravel: 1 ton ≈ 0.60 cubic yards
Reverse:
- 1 cubic yard of gravel ≈ 1.3-1.7 tons (2,600-3,400 lb depending on type)
Gravel types and density:
- Pea gravel: ~1.3 tons per cubic yard (lighter)
- Crushed stone: ~1.5 tons per cubic yard (typical)
- Dense granite: ~1.7 tons per cubic yard (heavier)
Practical example: If you need to cover a driveway area of 10 cubic yards, you'll need approximately 13-15 tons of gravel (10 yd³ × 1.3-1.5 tons/yd³).
What is the federal truck weight limit in tons?
The federal limit for trucks on interstate highways in the United States is:
80,000 pounds gross vehicle weight = 40 tons
This includes:
- Truck/tractor weight (tare weight)
- Trailer weight (tare weight)
- Cargo weight (payload)
- Fuel, driver, equipment
Axle limits:
- Single axle: 20,000 lb (10 tons) maximum
- Tandem axle: 34,000 lb (17 tons) maximum
- Total gross: 80,000 lb (40 tons) maximum
Bridge formula: The federal bridge formula determines allowable weight based on number of axles and spacing, which may further limit weight on shorter wheelbases.
State variations:
- Some states allow higher weights on specific routes (e.g., Michigan allows up to 164,000 lb / 82 tons with 11 axles)
- Permits: Overweight permits available for specialized hauling (heavy equipment, modular homes)
Violations: Fines for overweight trucks typically $0.10-$0.20 per pound over limit, escalating for serious violations.
How many tons can a dump truck carry?
Dump truck capacity varies by size and type:
Small dump trucks (single-axle):
- Payload: 5-8 tons (10,000-16,000 lb)
- Examples: Small commercial dumps, landscape trucks
- Typical load: 4-6 cubic yards material
Standard dump trucks (tandem-axle):
- Payload: 10-15 tons (20,000-30,000 lb)
- Examples: Construction dump trucks, municipal trucks
- Typical load: 8-12 cubic yards material
Tri-axle dump trucks:
- Payload: 15-18 tons (30,000-36,000 lb)
- Examples: Heavy construction, aggregate hauling
- Typical load: 12-15 cubic yards material
Transfer dump trucks (multi-axle):
- Payload: 20-26 tons (40,000-52,000 lb)
- Examples: Long combination vehicles, specialized hauling
- Typical load: 16-20 cubic yards material
Limitations:
- Federal limit: 80,000 lb (40 tons) gross vehicle weight
- Truck weight: Tare weight typically 15,000-30,000 lb (7.5-15 tons)
- Net payload: Actual cargo capacity = 40 tons minus truck weight
Material matters: Volume capacity depends on material density (sand ~1.5 tons/yd³, mulch ~0.4 tons/yd³).
What does "tonnage" mean in shipping?
In maritime shipping, "tonnage" can mean several different measurements:
1. Gross Tonnage (GT):
- Volume measurement of ship's entire internal space
- Not weight: Measured in "register tons" (100 cubic feet = 1 register ton)
- Usage: Ship classification, port fees, regulations
- Example: "Cargo ship: 50,000 GT"
2. Deadweight Tonnage (DWT):
- Weight measurement of cargo, fuel, crew, provisions ship can carry
- Actual weight capacity (what most people think of as "tonnage")
- Measured in: Metric tonnes (1,000 kg) internationally, sometimes US tons domestically
- Example: "Bulk carrier: 80,000 DWT" (can carry 80,000 tonnes cargo)
3. Displacement Tonnage:
- Total weight of ship (including ship structure + cargo + fuel + everything)
- Equals weight of water displaced by ship (Archimedes' principle)
- Usage: Naval vessels, ship design
- Example: "Aircraft carrier: 100,000 tons displacement"
4. Net Tonnage (NT):
- Volume of cargo spaces only (excludes engine room, crew quarters)
- Usage: Port fees, canal tolls (based on revenue-generating space)
Modern practice: International shipping primarily uses metric tonnes for weight measurements, while US domestic shipping may use US short tons.
Conversion Table: Kilogram to Ton (US)
| Kilogram (kg) | Ton (US) (ton) |
|---|---|
| 0.5 | 0.001 |
| 1 | 0.001 |
| 1.5 | 0.002 |
| 2 | 0.002 |
| 5 | 0.006 |
| 10 | 0.011 |
| 25 | 0.028 |
| 50 | 0.055 |
| 100 | 0.11 |
| 250 | 0.276 |
| 500 | 0.551 |
| 1,000 | 1.102 |
People Also Ask
How do I convert Kilogram to Ton (US)?
To convert Kilogram to Ton (US), enter the value in Kilogram in the calculator above. The conversion will happen automatically. Use our free online converter for instant and accurate results. You can also visit our weight converter page to convert between other units in this category.
Learn more →What is the conversion factor from Kilogram to Ton (US)?
The conversion factor depends on the specific relationship between Kilogram and Ton (US). You can find the exact conversion formula and factor on this page. Our calculator handles all calculations automatically. See the conversion table above for common values.
Can I convert Ton (US) back to Kilogram?
Yes! You can easily convert Ton (US) back to Kilogram by using the swap button (⇌) in the calculator above, or by visiting our Ton (US) to Kilogram converter page. You can also explore other weight conversions on our category page.
Learn more →What are common uses for Kilogram and Ton (US)?
Kilogram and Ton (US) are both standard units used in weight measurements. They are commonly used in various applications including engineering, construction, cooking, and scientific research. Browse our weight converter for more conversion options.
For more weight conversion questions, visit our FAQ page or explore our conversion guides.
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⚖️ Metric vs Imperial
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Other Weight Units and Conversions
Explore other weight units and their conversion options:
- Gram (g) • Kilogram to Gram
- Milligram (mg) • Kilogram to Milligram
- Pound (lb) • Kilogram to Pound
- Ounce (oz) • Kilogram to Ounce
- Stone (st) • Kilogram to Stone
- Ton (metric) (t) • Kilogram to Ton (metric)
- Ton (UK) (long ton) • Kilogram to Ton (UK)
- Microgram (µg) • Kilogram to Microgram
- Carat (ct) • Kilogram to Carat
- Slug (sl) • Kilogram to Slug
Verified Against Authority Standards
All conversion formulas have been verified against international standards and authoritative sources to ensure maximum accuracy and reliability.
National Institute of Standards and Technology — US standards for weight and mass measurements
International Organization for Standardization — International standard for mechanics quantities
Last verified: December 3, 2025