Tons to Metric Tons

A US ton (short ton) equals 2,000 pounds, while a metric ton (tonne) equals 1,000 kilograms or about 2,204.6 pounds. The metric ton is roughly 10% heavier than a US ton.

Multiply the number of tons by 0.907185 to get metric tons. For example, 5 tons × 0.907185 = 4.536 metric tons. This conversion factor accounts for the difference between the two measurement systems.

Most countries worldwide use metric tons (tonnes) as part of the metric system. The US primarily uses short tons, while the UK historically used long tons (2,240 lbs) but now mostly uses metric tons for trade.

International shipping standardizes on metric tons because most countries use the metric system. This prevents confusion in global trade and ensures consistent documentation across borders, ports, and customs agencies.

Yes, there's also the long ton (imperial ton) used historically in the UK, equal to 2,240 pounds. However, US short tons and metric tons are the most commonly used today in commerce and industry.