How much does it cost to deliver concrete?
How much does it cost to deliver concrete?
$500 – $1,000 average total cost
$125 – $150 per cubic yard
$55 – $65 per full load delivery
Average concrete delivery cost
Concrete delivery costs $500 to $1,000 for most residential projects, with the national average sitting at about $700. The final price depends on how much concrete you need, the distance from the batch plant, and the type of delivery you choose. Smaller jobs like a sidewalk repair may cost as little as $420, while a large foundation pour can run $1,310 or more.
| Cost Detail | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| National average | $700 |
| Typical range | $500 – $1,000 |
| Low-end (3 cubic yards) | $420 |
| High-end (10 cubic yards) | $1,310 |
Ready-mix concrete is sold by the cubic yard. A single cubic yard covers roughly 80 square feet at 4 inches thick. Most suppliers charge separately for the concrete itself and the delivery, so understanding both line items is essential to accurate budgeting.
Cost by delivery type
The way concrete reaches your job site significantly affects the price. Full-load deliveries from a standard mixer truck are the most economical per yard, while smaller or specialized deliveries carry higher per-yard premiums. Here is a breakdown of the four main delivery types.
| Delivery Type | Delivery Cost |
|---|---|
| Full load (10 cubic yards) | $55 – $65 per load |
| Short load (1 – 5 cubic yards) | $15 – $17 per cubic yard |
| Mix on-site truck | $20 – $25 per cubic yard |
| Tow-behind pump rental | $2 – $10 per cubic yard |
Full-load delivery
A full-load delivery brings a complete mixer truck, typically holding 10 cubic yards, to your site for $55 to $65 as a flat delivery fee. This is the most cost-effective option per cubic yard, making it ideal for large pours like foundations, large driveways, and commercial slabs.
Because the truck arrives pre-mixed and ready to pour, you save significant labor time. However, you need to be prepared to place and finish all 10 yards before the concrete begins setting, which usually means having a full crew on hand.
Short-load delivery
Short-load delivery costs $15 to $17 per cubic yard and covers orders of 1 to 5 cubic yards. This type is common for sidewalks, small patios, retaining walls, and driveway patches. While the per-yard delivery charge is higher than a full load, it prevents you from paying for concrete you do not need.
Ordering 6 to 9 cubic yards as a short load is possible but not always cost-effective. At that volume, upgrading to a full 10-yard load may actually save money.
Mix on-site delivery
Mix on-site trucks charge $20 to $25 per cubic yard for delivery, plus a truck rental fee of $500 to $800 per day. These specialized vehicles carry raw materials in separate bins and mix the concrete at your location.
The main advantage is precision. You mix only what you need, eliminating waste. You also have greater control over the mix design, allowing you to adjust water content and aggregate ratios to match specific project requirements.
Tow-behind pump rental
A tow-behind concrete pump runs $2 to $10 per cubic yard for delivery, with an hourly rental rate of $150 to $200. This option suits very small projects like concrete countertops, stepping stones, or small patio sections that require only 1 to 3 cubic yards.
Rental companies often fill these units with dry cement that you mix on site. You can also rent a tow-behind truck with a mixing attachment for a smoother process.
Concrete price per cubic yard
The cost of concrete itself, separate from delivery, averages $125 to $150 per cubic yard for standard ready-mix. Specialty mixes with higher PSI ratings, fiber reinforcement, or color additives cost more. The total price you pay per yard includes both the material and the delivery fee.
| Concrete Type | Price per Cubic Yard (Material Only) |
|---|---|
| Standard ready-mix (3,000 PSI) | $125 – $150 |
| High-strength mix (4,000 – 5,000 PSI) | $150 – $175 |
| Fiber-reinforced concrete | $160 – $190 |
| Colored or stamped-ready mix | $160 – $200 |
| High-performance mix (6,000+ PSI) | $180 – $250 |
Standard 3,000 PSI concrete works for most residential projects, including sidewalks, patios, and non-structural slabs. Driveways typically need 3,500 to 4,000 PSI, while structural foundations often require 4,000 PSI or higher. Always confirm the PSI requirement with your contractor or local building codes before ordering.
Concrete delivery cost by project
Project size is the single biggest factor in total delivered concrete cost. Smaller pours need fewer yards but often carry higher per-yard rates due to short-load fees. Below are common residential projects and their typical delivered costs, including both material and delivery.
| Project | Cubic Yards Needed | Total Delivered Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Sidewalk (4 ft. x 30 ft.) | 1.5 – 2 | $250 – $350 |
| Small patio (10 ft. x 10 ft.) | 1.5 – 2 | $250 – $350 |
| Single-car driveway (10 ft. x 20 ft.) | 2.5 – 3 | $375 – $500 |
| Double-car driveway (20 ft. x 20 ft.) | 5 – 6 | $700 – $900 |
| Garage floor (20 ft. x 24 ft.) | 6 – 7 | $850 – $1,050 |
| House foundation (1,500 sq. ft.) | 8 – 12 | $1,100 – $1,600 |
| Pool deck | 5 – 8 | $700 – $1,100 |
These estimates assume standard 4-inch slab thickness for flatwork and include delivery. Thicker slabs, required for heavy loads or structural purposes, will increase the volume of concrete needed and raise the total cost proportionally. For more detailed pricing on specific projects, see our guides on concrete driveway costs, concrete patio costs, and concrete slab costs.
Multiply the length (in feet) by the width (in feet) by the thickness (in feet), then divide by 27. For example, a 20 ft. x 20 ft. slab at 4 inches thick: 20 x 20 x 0.33 = 132 cubic feet / 27 = approximately 4.9 cubic yards. Always order 5% to 10% extra to account for spillage and uneven ground.
Factors that affect concrete delivery cost
Several variables influence what you will pay for concrete delivery. Understanding these factors helps you anticipate extra charges and negotiate a better deal with your supplier.
| Factor | Impact on Cost |
|---|---|
| Volume ordered | Higher volume lowers per-yard cost |
| Delivery distance | Adds $0.50 – $2.00 per mile beyond standard range |
| Short-load fees | Adds $30 – $60 per yard under minimum |
| Weekend or overtime delivery | Adds 10% – 20% surcharge |
| PSI strength and mix design | Higher strength costs more per yard |
| Geographic location | Urban areas typically 10% – 30% higher |
| Seasonal demand | Summer prices often 5% – 15% higher |
Delivery distance
Most concrete suppliers include delivery within a standard radius, typically 10 to 20 miles from the batch plant. Beyond that, expect a mileage surcharge of $0.50 to $2.00 per mile. For remote locations, this can add hundreds of dollars to the total cost.
Order volume
Ordering a full truckload is the cheapest per-yard option. When you order less than the truck's capacity, suppliers charge a short-load penalty that typically ranges from $30 to $60 per cubic yard below the truck's minimum. For instance, if the minimum is 10 yards and you order 5, you may pay a penalty on the 5 unused yards.
Geographic location
Concrete prices vary significantly by region. Areas with higher labor costs, more expensive raw materials, or limited supplier competition tend to charge more. Coastal cities and metropolitan areas often see prices 10% to 30% higher than rural markets.
Seasonal demand
Concrete delivery peaks during spring and summer when construction activity is highest. During these months, prices may increase by 5% to 15%. Scheduling your pour during the off-season (late fall or winter, where weather permits) can save money, though cold-weather pours require special precautions that may offset savings.
Additional fees to expect
Beyond the base material and delivery price, concrete suppliers often add charges for specific conditions or services. These fees can add $50 to $500 or more to your final bill, so it pays to ask about them upfront.
| Fee Type | Typical Cost |
|---|---|
| Short-load fee | $30 – $60 per yard under minimum |
| Overtime/waiting time (after 5 – 7 minutes per yard) | $2 – $5 per minute |
| Saturday delivery | $50 – $200 surcharge |
| Fuel surcharge | $25 – $100 |
| Washout fee | $25 – $50 |
| Concrete pump rental | $150 – $300 per hour |
| Environmental/sustainability fee | $10 – $30 |
Waiting time charges
Concrete suppliers allot a specific amount of time for unloading, usually 5 to 7 minutes per cubic yard. If the pour takes longer because of site access issues, crew delays, or slow placement, the supplier charges $2 to $5 per minute of overtime. A 30-minute delay could add $60 to $150 to your invoice.
Concrete pump rental
If the mixer truck cannot reach the pour location directly, you will need a concrete pump. Line pumps (boom-less) cost $150 to $300 per hour, while boom pumps for elevated or hard-to-reach pours cost $200 to $500 per hour. Most pumps require a minimum rental of 2 to 4 hours.
Ask your concrete supplier for a complete written quote that includes all potential fees. Confirm the delivery window, unloading time allowance, and short-load thresholds before placing your order. Having your pour site fully prepared will minimize waiting time charges.
Ready-mix vs. on-site mixing
Choosing between ready-mix delivery and mixing concrete on site depends on project size, budget, and how much control you need over the mix. Here is a side-by-side comparison.
| Factor | Ready-Mix Delivery | On-Site Mixing |
|---|---|---|
| Best for | Projects over 2 cubic yards | Projects under 2 cubic yards |
| Cost per cubic yard (material + delivery) | $130 – $175 | $150 – $250 |
| Consistency | Batch-plant quality control | Depends on operator skill |
| Convenience | Arrives ready to pour | Requires equipment and labor |
| Waste | May have excess if over-ordered | Mix only what you need |
| Time pressure | Must pour quickly before setting | Mix at your own pace |
Ready-mix delivery is the standard choice for most residential and commercial projects. It delivers consistent quality, saves labor, and is faster for medium to large pours. On-site mixing makes sense for very small jobs or situations where you need precise control over the mix throughout the day.
For DIYers tackling a small project, buying bagged concrete from a home improvement store is another option. An 80-pound bag covers about 0.6 cubic feet and costs $5 to $8. You would need about 45 bags to make a single cubic yard, which comes out to roughly $225 to $360 per yard. That makes bagged concrete viable only for very small repairs.
If you're a contractor looking to estimate jobs accurately, our guide on how to price concrete jobs covers material calculations, labor estimating, and profit margin strategies.
How to save on concrete delivery
Concrete delivery costs can add up quickly, but there are several strategies to keep your budget in check.
- Order a full load when possible. The per-yard delivery cost drops significantly when you fill the truck's 10-yard capacity.
- Get multiple quotes. Pricing varies between suppliers, so request at least three quotes and compare all fees, not just the per-yard rate.
- Schedule midweek deliveries. Avoid Saturday surcharges and peak-demand markups by pouring on a Tuesday, Wednesday, or Thursday.
- Combine with a neighbor's project. If a neighbor also needs concrete, splitting a full-load delivery can eliminate short-load fees for both of you.
- Choose a nearby supplier. Selecting the closest batch plant reduces or eliminates mileage surcharges.
- Prepare the site in advance. Have forms, rebar, and crew ready before the truck arrives to avoid waiting time penalties.
- Pour during the off-season. Late fall or early spring deliveries may come at lower rates due to reduced demand, depending on your climate.
- Calculate accurately. Measure your project carefully and add 5% to 10% overage. Over-ordering wastes money; under-ordering means a costly second delivery.
Frequently asked questions
How much does a yard of concrete cost delivered?
A single cubic yard of concrete delivered costs $130 to $175 on average, including material and delivery. If you are ordering below the truck's minimum load, short-load fees of $30 to $60 per cubic yard under the minimum will increase that price.
How many yards does a concrete truck hold?
A standard ready-mix concrete truck holds 10 cubic yards. Some smaller trucks carry 8 yards, while mini-mix trucks used for short-load deliveries may carry as few as 1 to 5 yards.
How much concrete do I need for a driveway?
A typical two-car driveway measuring 20 ft. x 20 ft. at 4 inches thick requires about 5 cubic yards. A single-car driveway (10 ft. x 20 ft.) needs approximately 2.5 to 3 cubic yards. Always add 5% to 10% extra for waste and uneven subgrade.
Is it cheaper to mix concrete yourself?
For very small projects under 1 cubic yard, mixing bagged concrete yourself can be cheaper. Beyond that threshold, ready-mix delivery is almost always more cost-effective. Mixing 5 yards from bags would cost $1,125 to $1,800 in materials alone, compared to $700 to $900 for ready-mix delivery.
Do you tip a concrete delivery driver?
Tipping is not expected for concrete delivery, but a $20 to $50 tip is appreciated if the driver goes above and beyond, such as navigating a difficult access route or helping coordinate the pour placement.
How long does concrete delivery take?
From the time you place an order, most suppliers can schedule delivery within 1 to 3 business days. The actual unloading process takes about 5 to 7 minutes per cubic yard, so a full 10-yard truck is typically emptied in under an hour.