📊 Price Breakdown
| Type | Cost per Yard |
|---|---|
| Standard concrete | $120–$150 |
| High-strength | $150–$180 |
| Decorative/Colored | $180–$250 |
| Fiber-reinforced | $140–$170 |
These prices are for ready-mix concrete delivered to your site. Bagged concrete costs significantly more per cubic yard but may be practical for very small projects.
🚚 Delivery Costs
Short Load Fee
$50–$100
Charged when ordering less than the minimum (usually 10 yards). Fee increases as order size decreases.
Delivery Fee
$100–$300
Varies by distance from plant. Some suppliers include delivery within a certain radius.
Waiting Time
$2–$5 per minute
Charged if truck waits beyond the free time (usually 5–10 minutes). Be ready when truck arrives!
🧱 Total Project Example
10×10 Slab (4" thick):
This example shows why small projects can be expensive per yard. The delivery and short load fees add significantly to the base concrete cost.
📈 What Affects Price
Location
Urban areas typically cost more due to higher operating costs. Rural areas may have higher delivery fees due to distance.
Volume Ordered
Larger orders get better per-yard pricing. Small orders incur short load fees that significantly increase cost.
Concrete Type
Standard 3000 PSI is cheapest. High-strength, decorative, or specialty mixes cost 20–50% more.
Labor Costs
Professional installation adds $2–$8 per square foot depending on complexity, finishing, and local labor rates.
Season & Demand
Peak construction season (spring/summer) may have higher prices and longer wait times. Winter pours may require additives.
⚠️ Hidden Costs
Pump Truck Rental
$200–$800
Required if truck can't reach pour site. Needed for backyard projects or areas with limited access.
Site Preparation
$1–$3 per square foot
Excavation, gravel base, forms, and compaction. Essential for proper concrete performance.
Finishing Work
$2–$8 per square foot
Smoothing, stamping, coloring, or special textures. Basic broom finish is cheapest.
Reinforcement
$0.30–$0.50 per square foot
Rebar or wire mesh. Highly recommended for crack prevention and structural integrity.
💡 Cost Saving Tips
- • Order multiple yards – Bulk orders avoid short load fees and get better per-yard pricing
- • Avoid small loads – Consider combining projects or coordinating with neighbors to reach minimum order
- • Prepare site yourself – DIY excavation and forms can save $1–$3 per square foot
- • Get multiple quotes – Prices vary significantly between suppliers. Call at least 3 companies
- • Be ready for delivery – Avoid waiting time charges by having site prepared and crew ready
- • Schedule off-peak – Fall and winter may offer better pricing and availability
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Is concrete cheaper by the yard?
Yes – bulk ready-mix orders are much cheaper per yard than bagged concrete. Ready-mix costs $120–$170/yard while bagged concrete costs $180–$270/yard plus labor to mix.
What is a short load fee?
An extra charge for ordering less than the supplier's minimum (typically 10 yards). The fee increases as your order gets smaller, often adding $50–$100 to small orders.
How much does a yard of concrete weigh?
About 4,000 pounds (2 tons) for standard concrete. This weight is important for access considerations and equipment requirements.
Can I negotiate concrete prices?
Sometimes. Large orders, off-peak scheduling, or being flexible with delivery times may get you better pricing. Always get multiple quotes to compare.
What's included in the concrete price?
The per-yard price covers the concrete mix only. Delivery, short load fees, pump trucks, labor, site prep, and finishing are all separate costs.