Science Fact Finder | Time, Weights, and Measures - What Is The Difference Between A Short Ton, A Long Ton, And A Metric Ton?

What is the difference between a short ton, a long ton, and a metric ton?

A "short ton" or "U.S. ton," sometimes called a "net ton" or simply a "ton," equals 2,000 pounds. A "long ton" or "avoirdupois ton" is 2,240 pounds. A "metric ton" or "tonne" is 2,204.62 pounds. Other weights are compared below:

U.S. customary measure

1 ounce	=	16 drams or 437.5 grains
1 pound	=	16 ounces or 7,000 grains or 256 drams
1 (short) hundredweight	=	100 pounds
1 long hundredweight	=	112 pounds
1 (short) ton	=	20 hundredweights or 2,000 pounds
1 long ton	=	20 long hundredweights or 2,240 pounds