Conversion July 13, 2026 · 8 Min Read

Grain Conversion Calculator – Guide & Formulas

Convert grain weights between bushels, pounds, kilograms, and metric tons for corn, wheat, soybeans, and other crops. Free online grain unit converter.

Convert grain measurements between bushels, pounds, kilograms, and metric tons. Instantly calculate weights for corn, wheat, soybeans, oats, barley, and other common grains.

Key Takeaway

Use the free Grain Conversion Calculator to convert grain weights between bushels, pounds, kilograms, and metric tons for corn, wheat, soybeans, and other crops. free online grain unit converter. Get instant results with step-by-step explanations.

How to Use the Grain Conversion Calculator

  1. Select the grain type (corn, wheat, soybeans, oats, barley, etc.).
  2. Enter the number of bushels or weight value to convert.
  3. Choose the input unit (bushels, lbs, kg, or metric tons).
  4. Review all converted values and the grain-specific standard bushel weight.

The Formula

Pounds = Bushels × Standard Weight. Kilograms = Pounds × 0.453592. Metric Tons = Kilograms ÷ 1000. Reverse conversions: Bushels = Pounds ÷ Standard Weight.

Variable Definitions

  • Bushel: A volume-based unit of measure for dry commodities (1 bushel = 35.239 liters)
  • Standard Weight: The official USDA weight per bushel for each grain type (varies by crop)
  • Test Weight: Actual weight per bushel measured at the grain elevator (may differ from standard)
  • Metric Ton: 1,000 kilograms or approximately 2,204.6 pounds

Converting 500 Bushels of Corn to Pounds and Metric Tons

Calculate grain weight for marketing and transport planning.

  1. Step 1: Corn standard bushel weight = 56 lbs/bu.
  2. Step 2: 500 bushels × 56 lbs = 28,000 lbs.
  3. Step 3: Convert to kg: 28,000 × 0.453592 = 12,701 kg.
  4. Step 4: Convert to metric tons: 12,701 ÷ 1000 = 12.70 metric tons.
  5. Step 5: For transport: a standard semi-hauls about 28,000 lbs or ~1,000 bushels of corn.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many pounds are in a bushel of corn?

The USDA standard weight for a bushel of shelled corn is 56 pounds. This is the basis for pricing and grading at grain elevators.

How many pounds are in a bushel of wheat?

The standard bushel weight for wheat is 60 pounds. Soybeans are also 60 lbs/bu. Oats are 32 lbs/bu. Barley is 48 lbs/bu.

What is the difference between bushels and pounds?

Bushels measure volume, while pounds measure weight. The weight of one bushel varies by grain type based on kernel density and size. Standard weights are used for consistent pricing.

How do I convert test weight bushels?

Test weight is what your grain actually weighs per bushel at the elevator. If your corn tests 58 lbs/bu, multiply bushels × 58 for actual weight, rather than the standard 56 lbs.

How many bushels fit in a semi-truck?

A standard semi-trailer holds approximately 900–1,100 bushels of corn (28,000–32,000 lbs). For wheat at 60 lbs/bu, a semi holds about 830–930 bushels.

How do I calculate grain weight for export?

Export contracts use metric tons. Convert: Metric Tons = Bushels × Standard Weight × 0.000453592. For corn: Bushels × 0.0254 = metric tons.

What grain has the lightest bushel weight?

Oats are the lightest major grain at 32 lbs/bu. Flaxseed is 56 lbs/bu. Rye is 56 lbs/bu. Rice (rough) is 45 lbs/bu.

Can grain weights vary from the standard?

Yes. Moisture content, foreign material, and kernel density cause variation. Damp grain weighs more per bushel. Elevators adjust payments based on actual test weight and moisture content.