Ton (US) to Pound Converter
Convert US tons to pounds with our free online weight converter.
Quick Answer
1 Ton (US) = 2000 pounds
Formula: Ton (US) × conversion factor = Pound
Use the calculator below for instant, accurate conversions.
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Ton (US) to Pound Calculator
How to Use the Ton (US) to Pound Calculator:
- Enter the value you want to convert in the 'From' field (Ton (US)).
- The converted value in Pound 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 Ton (US) to Pound: Step-by-Step Guide
Converting Ton (US) to Pound involves multiplying the value by a specific conversion factor, as shown in the formula below.
Formula:
1 Ton (US) = 2000 poundsExample Calculation:
Convert 5 US tons: 5 × 2000 = 10000 pounds
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.
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View all Weight conversions →What is a Ton (US) and a Pound?
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).
The pound is a unit of mass in the British imperial and United States customary systems of measurement. Since the international yard and pound agreement of 1959, one pound has been defined as exactly 0.45359237 kilograms. This makes the pound equal to precisely 16 ounces, 7,000 grains, or 453.59237 grams.
The pound is denoted by the symbol lb (from the Latin libra, meaning balance or scales) or sometimes lbs for plural, though technically "lb" serves both singular and plural. In commercial contexts, you'll see prices as "$/lb" (dollars per pound) or weights as "5 lb bag."
Unlike the metric system where weight relationships are decimal (1,000 grams = 1 kilogram), the pound uses the relationship of 16 ounces to 1 pound. This fractional system reflects historical divisions: 1 pound = 16 ounces = 256 drams = 7,000 grains, with each division serving practical purposes in trade and measurement.
Note: The Ton (US) is part of the imperial/US customary system, primarily used in the US, UK, and Canada for everyday measurements. The Pound belongs to the imperial/US customary system.
History of the Ton (US) and Pound
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.
The pound represents one of the oldest weight measurements in continuous use, with lineage tracing back over two millennia.
Roman Origins: The word "pound" derives from the Latin pondus (weight), while the symbol "lb" comes from libra, the Roman unit of weight equal to approximately 329 grams. The Romans used a libra divided into 12 unciae (ounces), though this differs from the modern 16-ounce pound.
Medieval Development: Multiple "pounds" existed simultaneously in medieval Europe—the tower pound (5,400 grains), merchant's pound (6,750 grains), and troy pound (5,760 grains) for precious metals. This created confusion in commerce and necessitated standardization.
Avoirdupois System: In 13th-century England, the avoirdupois system (from Old French aver de peis, "goods of weight") emerged for general commerce. The avoirdupois pound standardized at 16 ounces, each containing 437.5 grains, totaling 7,000 grains per pound. This system proved so practical for trade that it displaced most other pound definitions.
British Standardization: The Weights and Measures Act of 1824 established the imperial pound throughout the British Empire, legally defining it through physical standards. The Imperial Standard Pound, a platinum cylinder, was kept at the Houses of Parliament as the official definition.
US Independence: After the American Revolution, the United States maintained the British pound definition from colonial times. The Mendenhall Order of 1893 tied US weights to metric standards: 1 pound = 0.4535924277 kilograms (based on 1 meter = 39.37 inches).
1959 International Agreement: The international yard and pound agreement unified English-speaking nations. The United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa agreed that 1 pound equals exactly 0.45359237 kilograms. This created perfect mathematical alignment between imperial and metric systems.
Troy vs. Avoirdupois: Two pound systems coexist today. The avoirdupois pound (16 oz, 453.6 g) is used for general commerce and everyday measurements. The troy pound (12 troy oz, 373.2 g) survives only for precious metals—gold, silver, platinum. When someone says "pound" without qualifier, they always mean avoirdupois pound.
Cultural Persistence: Despite metric conversion efforts worldwide, the pound persists in American daily life. The 1975 Metric Conversion Act made metric "preferred" but voluntary, allowing continued pound usage. Today, Americans buy meat in pounds, weigh themselves in pounds, and ship packages in pounds, maintaining a measurement tradition spanning centuries.
Common Uses and Applications: US tons vs pounds
Explore the typical applications for both Ton (US) (imperial/US) and Pound (imperial/US) to understand their common contexts.
Common Uses for 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
When to Use pounds
Medical and Healthcare Settings
Healthcare in the US primarily operates in pounds for patient weight, though hospitals increasingly record kilograms for medication dosing calculations. Patient charts typically show both: "185 lbs (84 kg)." However, all patient communication uses pounds—doctors say "You've gained 5 pounds" or "Try to lose 10-15 pounds," never kilograms.
Weight-based medication dosing creates complexity: drugs dose in mg/kg, requiring conversion. A 160-lb patient equals 72.6 kg, so a drug dosed at 5 mg/kg requires 363 mg. Medical staff use conversion charts or electronic calculators to prevent errors.
Anesthesiology requires precise weight for medication dosing. Operating room scales display both pounds and kilograms, with staff typically asking patients "What's your weight in pounds?" for verification against chart data.
Public health BMI calculations use pounds and inches in the US: BMI = (weight in pounds × 703) ÷ (height in inches)². A person 5'9" (69") weighing 170 lbs has BMI = (170 × 703) ÷ (69 × 69) = 25.1, just into the "overweight" category (BMI 25-29.9).
Weight Loss and Fitness Industry
Diet programs, weight loss apps, and fitness tracking exclusively use pounds in the US market. Weight Watchers, MyFitnessPal, Lose It!, and similar apps default to pounds, though users can switch to kilograms.
Fitness goals frame in pounds: "Lose 20 pounds by summer," "Gain 10 pounds of muscle," "Drop 5 pounds this month." Personal trainers track client progress in pounds, celebrating milestone losses: "You've lost 25 pounds—that's like losing two bowling balls!"
Scale psychology creates significance for specific numbers. Dropping below 200 lbs (reaching "onederland") represents a major milestone for many dieters. Breaking into the 100s (199 lbs) feels dramatically different from 200 lbs despite being only 1 pound difference.
Bodybuilding competitions divide by weight classes in pounds: lightweight (<154 lbs), middleweight (154-176 lbs), light-heavyweight (176-198 lbs), heavyweight (198-242 lbs), super-heavyweight (>242 lbs). Competitors cut weight aggressively, sometimes losing 10-20 lbs of water weight in final days before weigh-in.
Commercial Food Service and Restaurants
Restaurant kitchens order ingredients in pounds and bulk quantities:
- 50-lb bags of onions
- 40-lb cases of chicken breast
- 25-lb blocks of cheese
- 5-lb containers of mayonnaise
- 10-lb boxes of bacon
Recipe scaling in commercial kitchens calculates in pounds: a recipe serving 20 using 2 lbs ground beef scales to serve 100 by using 10 lbs. Kitchen scales measure in pounds and ounces, with precision to 0.1 oz for small quantities.
Food costs calculate per pound: if chicken costs $2.50/lb and a dish uses 6 oz (0.375 lbs), the protein cost is $0.94 per serving. Restaurant profitability depends on accurate food costing, requiring staff to think fluently in pounds and ounces.
Portion control uses ounces: 8-oz steak, 6-oz salmon fillet, 4-oz burger patty (quarter-pounder). Pre-portioned proteins simplify cooking and ensure consistency. A case of forty 4-oz burger patties weighs 10 lbs total.
Postal and Freight Shipping
The entire US shipping industry operates in pounds. Postage rates tier by weight:
USPS First-Class Mail:
- Up to 3 oz: $0.63 (letter)
- Up to 13 oz: Incrementally increases
- Over 13 oz: Requires Priority Mail
Priority Mail tiers:
- Up to 1 lb: $8.50 flat rate (approximate regional)
- 1-2 lbs: $9.50
- 2-3 lbs: $11.00
- Continues in 1-lb increments to 70 lbs
Shipping costs increase dramatically with weight. A 15.5-lb package costs significantly more than a 15-lb package if it crosses a tier boundary. Online sellers optimize packaging to stay within weight tiers: use lighter boxes, remove unnecessary materials, choose compact packaging.
Freight shipping (over 150 lbs) charges by "hundredweight" (CWT): cost per 100 lbs. A 750-lb shipment traveling 500 miles at $45/CWT costs $337.50 (7.5 × $45).
Farming and Agriculture
Agricultural commerce operates entirely in pounds:
Crop yields per acre:
- Corn: 170-200 bushels/acre (56 lbs per bushel = 9,520-11,200 lbs/acre)
- Soybeans: 50-60 bushels/acre (60 lbs per bushel = 3,000-3,600 lbs/acre)
- Wheat: 50-70 bushels/acre (60 lbs per bushel = 3,000-4,200 lbs/acre)
Livestock weights:
- Market hogs: Sold at 250-280 lbs live weight
- Feeder cattle: Sold at 600-800 lbs, finished at 1,200-1,400 lbs
- Broiler chickens: Processed at 5-6 lbs
- Turkeys: Processed at 25-30 lbs
Feed calculations:
- Dairy cow eats 50-60 lbs of feed daily
- Beef cattle eat 25-30 lbs of feed daily during finishing
- Horse eats 15-25 lbs of hay daily
- Bag of horse feed: 50 lbs (common size)
Farmers sell crops and livestock by the pound or hundredweight (100 lbs). Commodity prices quote in cents per pound: corn at $0.055/lb, soybeans at $0.15/lb (converted from bushel prices).
Manufacturing and Industrial Production
Manufacturing specs, especially for non-precision work, use pounds:
Sheet metal weight:
- Steel sheet weight: pounds per square foot for given thickness
- Aluminum sheet: Lighter than steel at same thickness
- Copper sheet: Heavier than steel
Material handling:
- Pallet weight limits: 2,500 lbs typical
- Forklift capacity: 3,000-5,000 lbs common
- Hand truck/dolly: 500-800 lbs capacity
Product specifications:
- Appliances: Refrigerator 200-300 lbs, washing machine 150-200 lbs
- Furniture: Dining table 50-150 lbs, dresser 100-200 lbs
- Machinery: Small lathe 500-1,500 lbs, mill 2,000-5,000 lbs
Shipping and logistics calculate by weight and dimensions. Freight classifications assign classes based on weight density (pounds per cubic foot): class 50 (50+ lbs/cu ft, densest), class 500 (1 lb/cu ft, lightest).
Waste Management and Recycling
Waste services charge based on weight:
Dumpster weight limits:
- 10-yard dumpster: 2-3 tons (4,000-6,000 lbs) weight limit
- 20-yard dumpster: 3-4 tons (6,000-8,000 lbs)
- 40-yard dumpster: 5-6 tons (10,000-12,000 lbs)
Exceeding weight limits incurs fees: $50-100 per ton over limit. Construction debris (concrete, brick, dirt) quickly exceeds weight limits despite not filling volume.
Recycling programs:
- Aluminum cans: ~30 cans per pound, recyclers pay $0.30-0.50/lb
- Scrap steel: $0.05-0.15/lb
- Copper: $2-4/lb (valuable, often stolen)
- Cardboard: $0.02-0.10/lb
- Paper: $0.01-0.05/lb
Individuals recycling metals weigh loads at scrap yards on drive-over scales, receiving payment based on total pounds by category.
Pet Care and Veterinary Medicine
Pet food portion recommendations use pounds:
- Small dogs (<20 lbs): 1/2 to 1 cup food daily
- Medium dogs (20-50 lbs): 1 to 2 cups daily
- Large dogs (50-90 lbs): 2 to 3.5 cups daily
- Giant dogs (>90 lbs): 3.5 to 5+ cups daily
Medication dosing requires accurate pet weight. A 40-lb dog receiving medication at 1 mg/lb needs a 40 mg dose. Underdosing proves ineffective; overdosing risks toxicity.
Veterinarians track pet weight over time, flagging unhealthy gains or losses. "Fluffy has gained 3 pounds since last year—we need to reduce portions" or "Max has lost 5 pounds unexpectedly—let's run some tests."
Additional Unit Information
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.
About Pound (lb)
How many ounces are in a pound?
There are exactly 16 ounces in 1 avoirdupois pound. This relationship is fundamental to the US customary weight system and has remained constant since the avoirdupois system was standardized in 13th-century England.
The 16-ounce division allows convenient fractional measurements: 1/2 pound = 8 oz, 1/4 pound = 4 oz (quarter-pounder burger), 1/8 pound = 2 oz. Food packaging commonly uses both: "1 lb (16 oz)" or "12 oz (3/4 lb)."
Converting pounds to ounces: Multiply pounds by 16
- 1 lb = 16 oz
- 2.5 lbs = 40 oz
- 0.75 lbs = 12 oz (three-quarters of a pound)
Converting ounces to pounds: Divide ounces by 16
- 32 oz = 2 lbs
- 24 oz = 1.5 lbs
- 10 oz = 0.625 lbs
Mixed notation: "5 lbs 10 oz" means 5 pounds + 10 ounces = (5 × 16) + 10 = 90 ounces total.
Important distinction: Fluid ounces (volume) and ounces (weight) are different measurements. "16 fluid ounces" of water weighs approximately 16 ounces, but 16 fluid ounces of honey weighs about 24 ounces. The context determines which "ounce" is meant.
How do I convert pounds to kilograms?
To convert pounds to kilograms, multiply by 0.45359237. This is the exact conversion factor established by the 1959 international agreement.
Formula: kilograms = pounds × 0.45359237
Examples:
- 1 lb = 0.454 kg
- 10 lbs = 4.536 kg
- 50 lbs = 22.680 kg
- 100 lbs = 45.359 kg
- 150 lbs = 68.039 kg
- 200 lbs = 90.718 kg
Quick approximation: For mental math, divide pounds by 2.2 (or multiply by 0.45):
- 100 lbs ÷ 2.2 ≈ 45.5 kg (actual: 45.36 kg)
- 150 lbs ÷ 2.2 ≈ 68.2 kg (actual: 68.04 kg)
Reverse conversion (kg to lbs): Multiply kilograms by 2.20462
- 10 kg = 22.046 lbs
- 50 kg = 110.231 lbs
- 75 kg = 165.347 lbs
For professional contexts (medical dosing, commercial trade, engineering), always use the exact conversion factor. For casual estimates ("How heavy is that in kilograms?"), dividing by 2.2 provides close enough results.
What measurement system uses pounds?
The pound (lb) is a key unit in the imperial and US customary measurement systems. While the UK officially adopted the metric system in 1965, pounds remain common for body weight, and road signs still show distances in miles. The United States uses pounds extensively across all aspects of daily life.
Where pounds are standard:
- United States: Primary weight unit for commerce, body weight, cooking, shipping
- United Kingdom: Still common for body weight (though officially metric)
- Canada: Used alongside metric, especially for body weight and produce
- Caribbean nations: Many former British colonies maintain some imperial usage
Where kilograms dominate:
- European Union countries (mandatory metric since 1960s-1990s)
- Asia (Japan, China, Korea, etc.)
- Australia and New Zealand (converted to metric 1970s)
- Latin America
- Africa (except Liberia)
Hybrid usage: Many countries officially metric still use pounds informally. UK residents often describe body weight in stones and pounds despite official metric policy. Canada labels food in both grams and ounces.
Where is the pound commonly used?
The pound is primarily used in the United States for everyday measurements. Americans use pounds for:
Personal:
- Body weight (bathroom scales, medical records)
- Baby weight ("7 pounds, 6 ounces")
- Pet weight (vet visits, food portions)
- Luggage weight (airline limits)
Commerce:
- Grocery pricing ($3.99/lb for meat, produce)
- Postal shipping (USPS rates by pound)
- Food packaging (5-lb bag of flour)
- Restaurant portions (8-oz steak, quarter-pound burger)
Industrial:
- Construction materials (80-lb bag of concrete)
- Agricultural commodities (livestock sold per pound)
- Manufacturing specifications (product weights)
- Freight shipping (charges per 100 lbs)
The United Kingdom and Canada also use pounds commonly, though officially metric. UK residents often state body weight in stones and pounds. Canadian grocery stores show prices in both $/lb and $/kg.
In aviation, pounds of thrust measure jet engine power worldwide, and pounds of fuel calculate aircraft loading, even in metric countries—similar to altitude measured in feet globally.
Why do we use "lb" for pound?
The symbol "lb" comes from the Latin word libra, meaning balance or scales, which was the Roman unit of weight. The word "pound" itself derives from Latin pondus (weight), while the abbreviation preserved the Roman unit name.
Historical explanation:
- Roman libra ≈ 329 grams (about 0.7 modern pounds)
- Medieval scholars used "lb" as the standard abbreviation
- When the avoirdupois pound (16 oz, 454g) became England's commercial standard, it retained the Roman abbreviation despite the different weight value
Modern usage:
- "lb" serves both singular and plural (1 lb, 5 lb, not "5 lbs" technically, though "lbs" is common)
- Pronounced "pound" or "pounds" despite the letters "l-b"
- Used internationally in trade: "100 lb net weight"
Related terms:
- PSI = Pounds per Square Inch (pressure)
- lb-ft = pound-feet (torque)
- lb-test = fishing line strength (pounds of force before breaking)
The disconnect between spelling (lb) and pronunciation (pound) confuses English learners, but it's deeply embedded in language. No serious proposals exist to change it—tradition preserves the Roman abbreviation despite its non-phonetic representation.
What's the difference between mass and weight in pounds?
In scientific terms, mass measures the amount of matter in an object (kilogram or pound-mass), while weight measures the gravitational force on that mass (Newton or pound-force). However, in everyday American usage, "pound" refers to both interchangeably without distinction.
Scientific definitions:
- Mass (lbm): Amount of matter, constant regardless of location
- Weight (lbf): Force due to gravity = mass × acceleration
On Earth's surface, an object with 1 pound-mass (lbm) experiences 1 pound-force (lbf) of weight. On the Moon (1/6 Earth's gravity), that 1 lbm object would weigh only 0.167 lbf—but bathroom scales there would still show "1 lb" because they're calibrated for Earth gravity.
Everyday reality: When Americans say "I weigh 150 pounds," they technically mean "I have a mass that creates 150 pounds-force on Earth." Scales measure force (weight) but display mass units (pounds) assuming Earth gravity.
Engineering context: Engineers distinguish lbm (pound-mass) from lbf (pound-force) in calculations involving acceleration, thrust, or different gravitational environments. Aerospace applications carefully track both since spacecraft experience varying gravitational forces.
Practical impact: For everyday purposes—buying meat, weighing luggage, measuring body weight—the distinction doesn't matter. All occur at Earth's surface where 1 lbm = 1 lbf. Only in scientific, aerospace, or physics contexts does the mass vs. weight distinction require precision.
How much is a stone in pounds?
One stone equals exactly 14 pounds. The stone is a British imperial unit of weight still commonly used in the UK and Ireland for human body weight, though officially replaced by kilograms in most contexts.
Common conversions:
- 1 stone = 14 lbs = 6.35 kg
- 10 stone = 140 lbs = 63.5 kg
- 12 stone = 168 lbs = 76.2 kg
- 15 stone = 210 lbs = 95.3 kg
UK usage: British people typically express body weight in stones and pounds together:
- "I weigh 11 stone 8" = 11 stone + 8 lbs = 154 + 8 = 162 lbs total
- "I've lost half a stone" = lost 7 lbs
- "I need to lose 2 stone" = need to lose 28 lbs
Historical context: The stone was standardized in 1835 at 14 pounds for weighing people. Different stone weights existed historically for various commodities: wool stone (14 lbs), meat stone (8 lbs), cheese stone (16 lbs). The 14-pound definition survived for body weight.
Modern decline: Official UK government documents and medical records now use kilograms following metrication. However, bathroom scales in UK homes often still display stones and pounds, and older generations particularly think in stones when discussing weight.
US usage: Americans rarely use stones. When British media mentions someone weighing "12 stone," American audiences need conversion to understand this means 168 lbs.
Can you mix pounds and ounces in calculations?
Yes, but you must handle them carefully to avoid errors. Pounds and ounces can be added, subtracted, multiplied, and divided, but excess ounces must convert to pounds (since 16 oz = 1 lb).
Addition/Subtraction: Add or subtract pounds and ounces separately, then convert excess ounces:
- 5 lbs 10 oz + 3 lbs 8 oz = 8 lbs 18 oz = 9 lbs 2 oz (convert 18 oz = 1 lb 2 oz)
- 7 lbs 4 oz − 2 lbs 10 oz: borrow 1 lb = 16 oz, so 7 lbs 4 oz = 6 lbs 20 oz, then 6 lbs 20 oz − 2 lbs 10 oz = 4 lbs 10 oz
Multiplication/Division: Convert entirely to ounces or decimal pounds:
- Double 3 lbs 6 oz: Convert to 54 oz, double = 108 oz = 6 lbs 12 oz
- Half of 5 lbs 10 oz: Convert to 90 oz, half = 45 oz = 2 lbs 13 oz
- Or use decimal: 5 lbs 10 oz = 5.625 lbs, half = 2.8125 lbs = 2 lbs 13 oz
Decimal conversion:
- Pounds to decimal: 5 lbs 10 oz = 5 + (10÷16) = 5.625 lbs
- Decimal to pounds-ounces: 3.75 lbs = 3 lbs + 0.75 lbs = 3 lbs + 12 oz = 3 lbs 12 oz
Kitchen scales: Many digital scales switch between decimal pounds (5.63 lbs) and pounds-ounces (5 lbs 10 oz). Use decimal for recipe scaling and math, pounds-ounces for traditional recipes and portions.
What's a "hundredweight" and how does it relate to pounds?
A hundredweight (abbreviated cwt) is a unit equal to 100 pounds in the US customary system. It's primarily used in freight shipping, agriculture, and commodity trading for pricing and calculating large quantities.
US hundredweight (short hundredweight): 100 pounds exactly
- Used in United States and Canada
- Freight rates often quote as $/cwt (dollars per hundred pounds)
- Commodity prices: livestock, grains sometimes price per cwt
UK hundredweight (long hundredweight): 112 pounds (8 stone)
- Used historically in British imperial system
- Now largely obsolete in favor of metric
- Equal to 1/20 of a UK long ton (2,240 lbs)
Practical examples:
- Freight charges: "$25/cwt" means $25 per 100 lbs
- A 500-lb shipment at $25/cwt costs 5 × $25 = $125
- Cattle pricing: "$180/cwt" means $1.80/lb; 1,200-lb steer = $2,160
Ton relationships:
- US short ton = 2,000 lbs = 20 cwt
- UK long ton = 2,240 lbs = 20 (UK) cwt
- Metric tonne = 2,204.6 lbs ≈ 22 cwt
Why it persists: Hundredweight provides convenient round numbers for commodity trading and freight pricing. Saying "$45 per hundredweight" sounds simpler than "$0.45 per pound," and multiplying weight by hundredweight rate requires fewer decimal places.
How accurate do bathroom scales measure pounds?
Typical consumer bathroom scales measure weight accurate to ±0.2-1 pound (±90-450 grams), depending on quality and calibration. This means a scale showing "150 lbs" indicates your actual weight is likely between 149-151 lbs.
Scale types and accuracy:
- Spring/mechanical scales: ±1 lb typical accuracy, can drift over time
- Basic digital scales: ±0.5 lb typical accuracy
- High-quality digital scales: ±0.2 lb accuracy (±90 grams)
- Medical-grade scales: ±0.1 lb accuracy (±50 grams)
- Laboratory balances: ±0.01 lb accuracy (±5 grams)
Factors affecting accuracy:
- Surface: Scales must sit on hard, flat, level floors; carpet adds error
- Calibration: Scales drift over time and need periodic calibration
- Battery: Low battery affects digital scale accuracy
- Temperature: Extreme temperatures alter spring tension or sensor readings
- Weight distribution: Leaning or shifting weight creates false readings
Consistency vs. accuracy: For weight tracking, consistency matters more than absolute accuracy. If your scale consistently reads 2 lbs heavy, you can still track changes accurately. Weigh yourself same time daily (morning after bathroom, before eating), same scale, same conditions.
Verification: To check scale accuracy, weigh a known weight (10-lb dumbbell, 5-lb bag of flour). If the scale shows 10.2 lbs for a 10-lb dumbbell, it's within reasonable tolerance. Differences over 0.5 lbs suggest recalibration needed.
Conversion Table: Ton (US) to Pound
| Ton (US) (ton) | Pound (lb) |
|---|---|
| 0.5 | 1,000 |
| 1 | 2,000 |
| 1.5 | 3,000 |
| 2 | 4,000 |
| 5 | 10,000 |
| 10 | 20,000 |
| 25 | 50,000 |
| 50 | 100,000 |
| 100 | 200,000 |
| 250 | 500,000 |
| 500 | 1,000,000 |
| 1,000 | 2,000,000 |
People Also Ask
How do I convert Ton (US) to Pound?
To convert Ton (US) to Pound, enter the value in Ton (US) 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 Ton (US) to Pound?
The conversion factor depends on the specific relationship between Ton (US) and Pound. 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 Pound back to Ton (US)?
Yes! You can easily convert Pound back to Ton (US) by using the swap button (⇌) in the calculator above, or by visiting our Pound to Ton (US) converter page. You can also explore other weight conversions on our category page.
Learn more →What are common uses for Ton (US) and Pound?
Ton (US) and Pound 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.
Helpful Conversion Guides
Learn more about unit conversion with our comprehensive guides:
📚 How to Convert Units
Step-by-step guide to unit conversion with practical examples.
🔢 Conversion Formulas
Essential formulas for weight and other conversions.
⚖️ Metric vs Imperial
Understand the differences between measurement systems.
⚠️ Common Mistakes
Learn about frequent errors and how to avoid them.
All Weight Conversions
Other Weight Units and Conversions
Explore other weight units and their conversion options:
- Kilogram (kg) • Ton (US) to Kilogram
- Gram (g) • Ton (US) to Gram
- Milligram (mg) • Ton (US) to Milligram
- Ounce (oz) • Ton (US) to Ounce
- Stone (st) • Ton (US) to Stone
- Ton (metric) (t) • Ton (US) to Ton (metric)
- Ton (UK) (long ton) • Ton (US) to Ton (UK)
- Microgram (µg) • Ton (US) to Microgram
- Carat (ct) • Ton (US) to Carat
- Slug (sl) • Ton (US) 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