Short Ton (US) vs Tonne (Metric)
Side-by-side comparison, when-to-use-each guide, and instant conversion. Reviewed for 2026.
US commodities, US freight, US construction. Sometimes called just 'ton' in US English.
International shipping, all metric commerce, scientific work, EU regulations.
| Aspect | Short Ton (US) | Tonne (Metric) |
|---|---|---|
| Pounds | 2,000 lbs | 2,204.62 lbs |
| Kilograms | 907.2 kg | 1,000 kg exactly |
| UK long ton (for comparison) | 2,240 lbs / 1,016 kg | — |
| Used for | US freight, US grain | Global commerce, metric |
| Spelling | 'ton' (US) or 'short ton' | 'tonne' or 'metric ton' |
Frequently asked
What's the difference between 'ton' and 'tonne'?
In British English, 'ton' (no e) usually means the long ton (2,240 lbs) or the short ton (2,000 lbs) by context. 'Tonne' (with e) always means the metric tonne (1,000 kg). The two are about 1.6% different (long vs metric).
Why three different tons?
Long ton: traditional British (kept for historical reasons). Short ton: simplified American version (2,000 lbs is easier than 2,240). Metric tonne: the SI-aligned international standard. All three are still in active use.
Frequently asked questions
What's the difference between 'ton' and 'tonne'?
In British English, 'ton' (no e) usually means the long ton (2,240 lbs) or the short ton (2,000 lbs) by context. 'Tonne' (with e) always means the metric tonne (1,000 kg). The two are about 1.6% different (long vs metric).
Why three different tons?
Long ton: traditional British (kept for historical reasons). Short ton: simplified American version (2,000 lbs is easier than 2,240). Metric tonne: the SI-aligned international standard. All three are still in active use.