How to Convert Gallons to Metric Tons

A tonne, or metric ton, is a single unit of mass equal to 1,000 kg or 2,204 lbs. This unit is the approximate mass of a cubic meter of water at four degrees Celsius. Converting standard units to metric units often involves only a single step, but because a gallon is a standard unit of volume, you must first convert it into a standard unit of weight before you can complete any calculation.

Instructions

1

Weigh one gallon of your substance to get its weight in pounds. For instance, if you have a gallon of water, that typically weighs about 8.34 lbs.

2

Divide 2,204 lbs. by the weight of the object from Step 1. Carry out the answer to at least four decimal places.

Example: 2,204 lbs. per ton / 8.34 lbs. per gallon = 264.2686 gallons per ton

3

Divide the number of gallons you wish to convert into metric tons by your answer from Step 2.

Example: 50 gallons / 264.2686 gallons per ton = .189 tons

This example means that 50 gallons of water weighing 8.34 lbs. per gallon is approximately .189 -- or 18.9 percent -- of one metric ton.