How Many Yards of Concrete in a Truck? Homeowners, Contractors, and DIY Builders
- Jayant Upadhyay
- Aug 21
- 5 min read
Concrete is the backbone of modern construction. Whether you’re building a driveway, laying a foundation, or working on a backyard patio, knowing how much concrete you’ll need—and how it’s delivered—is critical to planning your project efficiently. One of the most common questions asked in the construction world is: “How many yards of concrete can a truck hold?”
The answer isn’t as simple as giving a single number. Different types of concrete trucks exist, and their carrying capacity varies depending on the truck model, the weight limits on roads, and even the density of the mix. If you’re planning a project that involves ordering ready-mix concrete, understanding truck capacity, costs, and delivery logistics will save you time, money, and frustration.
We’ll explore everything you need to know about concrete truck loads, including:
Standard concrete truck capacities
Differences between full-size, mini, and volumetric mixers
How to calculate the yards of concrete you need
Factors that affect how much a truck can legally carry
Average cost per yard delivered
Tips for ordering the right amount without overpaying
Frequently asked questions
Chapter 1: What Is a Cubic Yard of Concrete?
Before diving into truck sizes, it’s important to understand what a yard of concrete means.
A cubic yard measures 3 feet × 3 feet × 3 feet, or 27 cubic feet in volume.
One cubic yard of concrete weighs about 4,000 pounds (2 tons) depending on the mix.
A single cubic yard can cover about:
80 sq. ft. at 4 inches thick
60 sq. ft. at 6 inches thick
40 sq. ft. at 8 inches thick
Knowing this helps you estimate how many yards you need for a patio, driveway, or slab.
Chapter 2: Standard Concrete Truck Capacities
Full-Size Ready-Mix Concrete Trucks
The most common type of truck you see on construction sites is the full-size drum mixer truck.
Capacity: 8–10 cubic yards of concrete
Weight when loaded: 40,000–70,000 lbs (depending on road limits)
Best for: Medium-to-large construction jobs (driveways, foundations, roadwork)
Mini Concrete Trucks
Smaller trucks are often used in residential neighborhoods or areas with narrow streets.
Capacity: 4–6 cubic yards
Best for: Small jobs like patios, sidewalks, and repair work
Advantage: Can maneuver into tighter spaces
Volumetric Concrete Mixers
Instead of carrying pre-mixed concrete, volumetric mixers carry raw materials (cement, aggregate, water) and mix them on-site.
Capacity: Typically 8–12 cubic yards of raw ma
terials
Best for: Projects requiring different concrete strengths or extended pour times
Advantage: No waste—mix only what you need
Chapter 3: How Many Yards of Concrete Are in a Truck?
To answer the main question:
Standard full-size trucks carry 8–10 yards.
Mini trucks carry 4–6 yards.
Large volumetric mixers can produce 10–12 yards on-site.
However, road weight limits often reduce how much they can legally carry. For instance:
In many U.S. states, trucks can legally haul about 8 yards of concrete due to weight restrictions.
In rural areas with less traffic, trucks may deliver up to 10 yards in one load.
Chapter 4: Factors Affecting Concrete Truck Loads
Weight Limits – A yard of concrete weighs ~4,000 lbs. Ten yards equals 40,000 lbs, plus the truck’s weight (~30,000 lbs), which can exceed highway weight restrictions.
Type of Mix – Heavier mixes (with more aggregate or higher PSI) reduce the number of yards per truck.
Distance from Batch Plant – Trucks traveling longer distances may carry less to avoid setting during transit.
Jobsite Conditions – Small residential driveways or hilly terrains may require smaller trucks.
Chapter 5: Calculating How Much Concrete You Need
To avoid over-ordering or running short, calculate carefully:
Formula:
Volume=Length (ft)×Width (ft)×Depth (in ÷ 12)÷27Volume = \text{Length (ft)} × \text{Width (ft)} × \text{Depth (in ÷ 12)} \div 27Volume=Length (ft)×Width (ft)×Depth (in ÷ 12)÷27
Example: A 20 ft × 10 ft patio at 4 inches thick:
20×10×(4/12)=66.6÷27≈2.47 yards20 × 10 × (4/12) = 66.6 \div 27 ≈ 2.47 \, \text{yards}20×10×(4/12)=66.6÷27≈2.47yards
Always round up and add 5–10% extra for spillage or uneven ground.
Chapter 6: Costs Per Truckload of Concrete
Average cost per cubic yard: $135–$170 (U.S. prices, 2025)
Truck delivery fee: $100–$200
Short load fee (under 4–6 yards): $40–$60 per yard
Full 10-yard load: $1,350–$1,700 + delivery
Tip: Combining small projects into one pour can save money by avoiding multiple short-load fees.
Chapter 7: How to Order Concrete the Right Way
Measure your project accurately.
Order slightly more than needed (5–10%).
Consider site access—can a full-size truck reach?
Ask your supplier about short-load charges.
Plan for weather—avoid extreme hot/cold pour days.
Chapter 8: Common Mistakes to Avoid
Underestimating yardage → causes costly delays.
Not accounting for thickness variations → uneven pours.
Ordering in small batches → increases cost with multiple delivery fees.
Forgetting access issues → truck may not reach, requiring pumping (extra cost).
Chapter 9: Alternatives for Small Jobs
If your project needs less than 1–2 yards:
Use concrete bags (60–80 lb bags) mixed manually.
Rent a towable mini mixer from a home improvement store.
Hire a short-load delivery service specializing in 1–3 yards.
Chapter 10: FAQs About Concrete Truck Loads
Q1. How many yards are in a standard concrete truck?Usually 8–10 yards, but legal weight limits may restrict it to 8 yards.
Q2. What if I only need 2–3 yards of concrete?You’ll pay a “short-load fee” or use bagged/tow-behind mixer options.
Q3. How long can concrete stay in the truck?Typically 90 minutes before it begins setting.
Q4. How much does 1 truckload of concrete cost?Around $1,350–$1,700 for 10 yards, plus delivery fees.
Q5. Can a concrete truck fit in my driveway?Standard trucks are 20–30 feet long and 8–10 feet wide. Mini trucks may be better for residential sites.
Q6. How much does 1 yard of concrete cover?About 80 sq. ft. at 4 inches thick.
Q7. Do I need to order extra concrete?Yes, always order 5–10% extra to account for spillage or uneven grading.
Q8. What is the weight of a concrete truck when full?Up to 70,000 lbs (35 tons).
Q9. Can concrete trucks deliver different strengths of mix?Yes, especially volumetric mixers that blend on-site.
Q10. What’s the smallest load most suppliers deliver?Usually 1–2 yards, but fees apply if under 4–6 yards.
Conclusion
So, how many yards of concrete are in a truck? The answer depends on the truck type:
Standard trucks: 8–10 yards
Mini trucks: 4–6 yards
Volumetric mixers: 8–12 yards on-site
For most residential jobs, expect a truck to bring about 8 yards due to weight limits. Ordering concrete efficiently requires accurate measurement, understanding truck sizes, and planning for access and costs.
Whether you’re pouring a backyard patio, a driveway, or a commercial slab, knowing the logistics of concrete delivery helps you stay on budget and avoid delays.
Comments