A 10 yard split means one truckload of gravel divided equally between two different sizes

A 10 yard split is a delivery option where a gravel supplier loads one truck with 10 cubic yards of material, then splits it into two separate stone sizes — typically 5 yards of one type and 5 yards of another. You receive both materials in a single delivery, which costs less than ordering two separate truckloads and saves you a trip to the supplier's yard.

The term "10 yard" refers to the total volume, not the individual sizes. A split can be 5-5, or you can request other combinations like 6-4 or 7-3, depending on what your project needs. The supplier mixes the load at their yard before delivery, so everything arrives together on one truck.

This option works best for projects that need two different stone types — for example, a base layer of larger crushed stone under a top layer of smaller pea gravel, or a mix of two decorative stones for landscaping. It also works if you want to test two different materials before committing to a full 10-yard load of one type.

Key Takeaways

  • A 10 yard split delivers two different gravel sizes in one truckload, split however you request (usually 5-5).
  • You pay for one delivery fee instead of two, which saves money compared to ordering two separate loads.
  • The supplier mixes the load at their yard, so both materials arrive together and you don't have to layer them yourself during unloading.
  • Common splits are for base and top layers, or for testing two decorative stones before ordering a full load of one type.
  • Not all suppliers offer splits, and some charge a small upcharge or have minimum order requirements, so confirm before ordering.

When a split makes sense for your project

A split is most useful when your project has two distinct layers or zones. Driveway base work often uses a split — 5 yards of 3/4-inch crushed stone for the base, then 5 yards of smaller crushed limestone or pea gravel on top. Landscaping beds sometimes use a split to separate a drainage layer from a decorative top layer. Parking areas and gravel roads often benefit from the same layering approach.

A split also makes sense if you're uncertain about which stone size or type will work best for your needs. Instead of ordering 10 yards of one material and discovering it's not right, you can order a split, see how each material performs, and place a full order based on what you learn. This is especially common with decorative stones, where appearance matters as much as function.

Splits are less useful if your entire project needs only one stone type, or if you need more than 10 yards total. In those cases, ordering a full load of one material is simpler and often cheaper per yard.

How pricing works for a 10 yard split

Most suppliers charge the same per-yard price for a split as they do for a full single-material load. If crushed stone costs $40 per yard and pea gravel costs $45 per yard, a 5-5 split would cost roughly (5 × $40) + (5 × $45) = $425, plus one delivery fee. You pay for the actual materials you're getting, not a discounted rate.

The real savings come from paying one delivery fee instead of two. Delivery fees typically range from $50 to $150 depending on distance and your supplier, so a split can save you $50 to $150 compared to two separate orders. Some suppliers charge a small upcharge ($10 to $25) for the extra work of splitting the load, but this is still far less than a second delivery.

Always ask your supplier for a total price quote before ordering. Some have minimum order requirements (for example, no splits under 5 yards per material), and a few may not offer splits at all. Confirming the exact cost and any restrictions takes 30 seconds on the phone and prevents surprises when the truck arrives.

How to order and receive a 10 yard split

Call or visit your local gravel supplier and tell them you want a 10 yard split with specific materials and sizes. For example: "I need 5 yards of 3/4-inch crushed stone and 5 yards of pea gravel, delivered to [your address]." The supplier will confirm they offer splits, give you a price, and schedule a delivery date. Most suppliers can deliver within a few days to a week.

When the truck arrives, the driver will unload both materials in separate piles or sections of your site. Because the load is already split at the yard, the materials won't be mixed together — you'll see two distinct piles. Make sure you have enough space for both piles and that the truck can access your site. If your driveway or yard is narrow, mention this when ordering so the driver can plan the unload.

Inspect the load before the truck leaves. Check that you received the correct total volume (10 yards), that both materials are the sizes you ordered, and that the piles are in usable condition. If something is wrong, tell the driver when ready — it's much harder to resolve after they leave.

Common material combinations for splits

The most common split is a base-and-top combination: 5 yards of larger crushed stone (3/4-inch or 1-inch) for drainage and stability, topped with 5 yards of smaller material like pea gravel, crushed limestone, or marble chips for appearance and comfort. This layering is standard for driveways, parking areas, and landscaping beds.

Another popular split pairs two decorative stones — for example, 5 yards of river rock and 5 yards of pea gravel, or 5 yards of tan pea gravel and 5 yards of dark river rock. This lets you create visual variety in a landscaping project without ordering two full truckloads.

Some people use a split to test materials. You might order 5 yards of one type of decorative stone and 5 yards of another, see which one you prefer in your actual space, and then order a full load of the winner for the rest of the project. This approach costs a bit more upfront but prevents the much larger expense of ordering 10 yards of the wrong material.

What to prepare before delivery

Clear the delivery area of obstacles — parked cars, trash cans, garden hoses, or anything else that might block the truck or damage the unload. The truck needs a flat, accessible spot where the driver can safely position it and operate the dump bed. If your driveway is steep, narrow, or has low-hanging branches, tell the supplier when you order so they can send an appropriately sized truck.

Mark or plan where each pile should go. If you're using the materials for different purposes (base layer in one area, top layer in another), let the driver know so they can unload accordingly. This saves you from moving material twice.

Have a shovel and wheelbarrow ready if you plan to start work the same day. Gravel can shift or spread if left in a pile during rain, so moving it into place quickly helps protect your investment.

Alternatives if a split doesn't fit your needs

If you need more than 10 yards, order multiple full loads. Two 10-yard loads cost less per yard than two separate smaller orders, and you avoid split fees. If you need less than 10 yards total, ask the supplier about smaller loads — many offer 5-yard or 3-yard minimums, though the per-yard cost may be higher.

If you only need one material type, a full 10-yard load of that material is simpler and often cheaper than a split. You avoid any upcharge for splitting and get a consistent product throughout.

If you want to test materials but can't afford a split, some suppliers sell small bags of stone (25 to 50 pounds) so you can see how a material looks in your space before committing to a truckload. This costs more per pound but lets you make an informed decision with minimal expense.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I request a split other than 5-5, like 6-4 or 7-3?

Yes. Most suppliers will split a 10-yard load however you want as long as each portion meets their minimum (often 3 to 5 yards per material). Call ahead and confirm the split ratio you need — the supplier may charge slightly more for an uneven split, but usually not.

Will the two materials get mixed together during delivery?

No. The supplier mixes the load at their yard before the truck leaves, so the materials stay separate. You'll receive two distinct piles. The driver may place them side by side, but they won't be blended together.

What if I change my mind about the split ratio after I order?

Call the supplier as soon as possible — ideally before the truck is loaded. If the truck has already left the yard, changing the split may not be possible, or the driver may charge a fee. Confirming your exact needs before ordering prevents this problem.

Do I need to do anything special to prepare the ground before the gravel arrives?

That depends on your project. For a driveway base, you may need to grade or compact the soil first. For landscaping, you might lay landscape fabric. Ask your supplier or a local contractor what prep work your specific project needs — the split itself doesn't change the preparation process.

How long does it take to unload a 10 yard split?

Most deliveries take 15 to 30 minutes from arrival to departure, depending on site access and how the piles are positioned. If your site is difficult to access or you request specific pile placement, unloading may take longer. Plan for at least 30 minutes and have someone present to direct the driver.