Best Gravel for Shed Base: 2026 Picks
A direct pick of the right material for your project, with three sensible alternates and what each one costs delivered.
Our top pick: #57 Crushed Stone
For base course gravel projects, #57 Crushed Stone is the material we ship most often. The knits under load, stays angular behavior and fast drainage profile are what most crews are after on this job. Delivered pricing lands at $38-$62/ton on full-truck orders across our service area.
Why #57 Crushed Stone fits base course gravel
The 3/4 – 1″ size sits in the sweet spot for base course gravel. Crews like it because it is widely stocked at quarries, the price is predictable, and you can get a tandem-load delivered same day in most metros. Spec it at the depth your local code or contractor recommends, and plan a thin re-dressing every couple of years.
Worth considering: Class 5 Base, Crusher Run, and #57 Crushed Stone
Each of these is a sensible alternative when budget, drainage, or aesthetics push you off the main pick. Class 5 Base lands at $28-$48/ton with slow (compacted) drainage and a dense gray, blends with concrete look. Crusher Run lands at $28-$48/ton with moderate drainage and a sharp gray, utilitarian look. #57 Crushed Stone lands at $38-$62/ton with fast drainage and a sharp gray, utilitarian look.
How much to order
A typical residential base course gravel project runs 4 to 12 tons of #57 Crushed Stone. Use the calculator on the site to plug in your dimensions, then pad the order 10 percent for waste and edges. Full-truck delivery (16+ tons) is the cheapest route on a per-ton basis, with 15 to 20 percent savings over partial loads.
Top picks side by side
| Material | Spec | Fit & price |
|---|---|---|
| #57 Crushed Stone (our pick) | Size 3/4 - 1" · Sharp gray, utilitarian | Best for driveway gravel and drainage gravel · $38-$62/ton |
| Class 5 Base | Size varies" · Dense gray, blends with concrete | Best for driveway gravel and base course gravel · $28-$48/ton |
| Crusher Run | Size varies" · Sharp gray, utilitarian | Best for driveway gravel and base course gravel · $28-$48/ton |
| #57 Crushed Stone | Size 3/4 - 1" · Sharp gray, utilitarian | Best for driveway gravel and drainage gravel · $38-$62/ton |
Verdict
For base course gravel projects, the answer is #57 Crushed Stone. It is the material we move the most of, the price is sensible, and every quarry in our network keeps it in stock.
Plan with a calculator
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Why is #57 Crushed Stone the best for this project?
#57 over a compacted Class 5 base is the standard shed pad. 4 inches of #57 spreads load evenly, drains rain water.
Are there cheaper alternatives?
Yes - but the cost difference is usually $1-5 per ton, while the wrong material can double your install time. Pick #57 Crushed Stone unless your local quarry doesn't carry it.
How much do I need?
Depends on area and depth. A typical residential project needs 2-6 tons. Use the linked calculator for exact tonnage.
Can I install it myself?
Yes - most homeowners spread #57 Crushed Stone with a wheelbarrow, rake, and plate compactor over a weekend.
How long does it last?
Properly installed, 10+ years before any top-up is needed. UV doesn't break down rock.
Where do I buy it?
Order from us - bulk delivery same-day in most metros. Or buy bagged at home centers for small jobs.