Break-even at typical prices
| Material | Bulk is cheaper above | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Mulch | 5.4 yd³ | Bags are light but cost 2–3× bulk per yard |
| Topsoil | 0.9 yd³ | Bagged soil is priced like a convenience item |
| Gravel | 0.49 yd³ | Bagged gravel costs 10× bulk per ton |
| Concrete | 1.23 yd³ | Short-load fees protect bags on small pours |
Beyond price
- Labor: a cubic yard of gravel in bags is about 54 bags and 2,800 lb.
- Access: a dump truck needs a place to drop the pile, and you move it by wheelbarrow.
- Trips: a half-ton pickup carries about ½ yd³ of gravel safely.
- Leftovers: unopened bags can be returned; a bulk pile can’t.
Typical 2026 US prices used in the tables: 80 lb concrete $6.50, ready-mix $170/yd³ plus a $150 short-load fee under 4 yd³; gravel $5.50 per 0.5 ft³ bag or $45/ton + $100 delivery; mulch $4 per 2 ft³ bag or $40/yd³ + $75 delivery; topsoil $3.25 per 0.75 ft³ bag or $35/yd³ + $75 delivery. Change any of them in the calculators.