One US gallon of diesel weighs about 3.0 kilograms, or approximately 6.9 to 7.1 pounds, using a representative density near 0.84 kg/L. Diesel formulation, grade, temperature, and reference conditions affect the exact value.
Diesel weight table
| Volume | Approximate mass at 0.84 kg/L |
|---|---|
| 1 US gallon | 3.18 kg / 7.00 lb |
| 5 US gallons | 15.89 kg / 35.01 lb |
| 10 US gallons | 31.80 kg / 70.01 lb |
| 50 US gallons | 158.99 kg / 350.07 lb |
| 1 imperial gallon | 3.82 kg / 8.42 lb |
These values describe diesel only and exclude tanks, hoses, and containers.
Diesel conversion formula
diesel mass (kg) = liters × density
US gallons = kilograms ÷ density ÷ 3.785411784
For example, 100 kg at 0.84 kg/L is:
100 ÷ 0.84 ÷ 3.785411784 = 31.45 US gallons
Use the diesel kg-to-gallons calculator for an estimate based on the selected density.
Temperature and fuel density
Diesel expands when warmed and contracts when cooled. A fixed mass can therefore occupy a different volume at different temperatures. Fuel specifications and commercial systems may use reference temperatures or approved correction procedures; do not apply a generic correction for regulated transactions or safety decisions.
Planning and safety
Fuel weight can help with a preliminary payload or tank estimate, but it does not determine safe capacity. Include the container and fittings in gross weight, follow the fuel specification, and use approved storage and transport procedures.
Bottom line
Use about 3.18 kg per US gallon at 0.84 kg/L as a practical estimate. For operational or commercial work, replace the estimate with the actual documented density.
Sources & References
- NIST: SI Units and Volume Measurement Standards
- BIPM: The International System of Units (SI Brochure)
- The Engineering ToolBox: Liquids Densities Reference
- USDA FoodData Central: Food and Beverage Reference Values
- For product-specific density, use the manufacturer’s verified Technical Data Sheet (TDS) or Safety Data Sheet (SDS) at 20°C (68°F).
