If you’re planning a construction project, one of the first questions you’ll face is how many yards in a truck of concrete. Knowing the answer helps you order the right amount, avoid waste, and control costs. Whether you’re pouring a driveway, a patio, or the foundation of a house, understanding concrete truck capacity can save time, money, and frustration.
This comprehensive guide breaks down everything you need to know from truck sizes and capacities to costs, regulations, and real-world examples.
Understanding Concrete Truck Capacity
What Is a Concrete Yard and Why It Matters
A cubic yard of concrete is a standard measurement used in construction to calculate how much concrete is needed for a project.
- A cubic yard is equivalent to 27 cubic feet (3 ft x 3 ft x 3 ft).
- On average, one cubic yard weighs about 4,000 pounds (1.8 tons).
Concrete is sold in cubic yards rather than by weight because it’s easier to estimate how much space the mix will occupy in forms or molds. If you underestimate your concrete needs, you’ll run out mid-pour. Overestimate, and you’ll pay extra for unused mix that hardens quickly.
Standard Concrete Truck Capacity
A typical ready-mix concrete truck holds 8 to 10 cubic yards of concrete. However, smaller or specialty trucks are also used for tight job sites or small residential projects.
| Truck Type | Capacity (Cubic Yards) | Best For |
| Standard Mixer Truck | 8–10 | Large construction sites and commercial projects |
| Mini Mixer Truck | 3–4 | Residential driveways, patios, sidewalks |
| Short-Load Truck | 1–3 | Small repairs or DIY home projects |
For perspective, one full concrete truck (10 yards) can pour an area approximately 20 ft × 40 ft × 4 inches thick perfect for a large driveway or small foundation.
Factors That Affect How Many Yards Fit in a Concrete Truck
Truck Size and Drum Design
The drum size and mixing mechanism directly affect how many yards can fit in a truck. Modern trucks use tilting drum mixers that rotate constantly to keep the mix uniform. A larger drum means greater capacity, but it’s also limited by road weight restrictions.
Local Regulations and Road Weight Limits
Different states and municipalities impose Department of Transportation (DOT) weight restrictions on heavy vehicles. A fully loaded 10-yard truck can weigh up to 40,000 pounds, which may exceed local road limits. To comply, suppliers might reduce the load to 7 or 8 yards.
Type of Concrete Mix
Concrete isn’t one-size-fits-all. High-strength mixes, fiber-reinforced concrete, or lightweight aggregates can alter the total volume and density of the load. Heavier mixes require smaller volumes to stay within safety and weight guidelines.
Calculating How Many Yards of Concrete You Need
Simple Concrete Volume Formula
Here’s a quick formula used by builders:
(Length × Width × Depth) / 27 = Cubic Yards
For example:
- A patio that measures 20 ft × 10 ft × 4 inches (0.33 ft) =
(20 × 10 × 0.33) ÷ 27 = 2.44 cubic yards.
It’s smart to order 5–10% extra to account for spillage, over-excavation, or uneven ground.
Real-World Example
Let’s say you’re pouring a driveway that’s 30 feet long, 12 feet wide, and 5 inches thick (0.42 ft):
(30 × 12 × 0.42) ÷ 27 = 5.6 cubic yards
A mini mixer truck carrying 6 yards would be perfect for this job efficient and without excess waste.
Tools and Apps for Accurate Estimation
Instead of manual calculations, you can use:
- Online concrete calculators from suppliers like Cemex or Quikrete.
- Mobile construction apps that calculate by project type (e.g., footing, slab, column).
These tools also consider variations in thickness and shape, helping you estimate more precisely.
Costs and Efficiency , Making the Most of Each Load
Average Price per Yard of Concrete
The average cost of concrete ranges between $125 and $175 per cubic yard, depending on location, mix type, and delivery distance. Add-ons like color, fiber reinforcement, or faster-setting options can raise prices.
| Load Type | Average Cost per Cubic Yard | Notes |
| Full Load (8–10 yards) | $125–$150 | Most cost-effective option |
| Half Load (4–5 yards) | $150–$175 | Includes delivery surcharge |
| Short Load (1–3 yards) | $175–$225 | Highest cost per yard |
How Partial Loads Affect Price
Ordering less than a full truckload often triggers a short-load fee, since the cost of fuel, driver, and delivery remains the same. Some companies require a minimum order of 3–4 yards, even if your project needs less.
Cost-Saving Tips
- Combine small projects (e.g., driveway + patio) to fill a truck.
- Schedule early morning deliveries to avoid overtime rates.
- Ask for returned concrete deals, where suppliers sell leftover mix at a discount.
Common Questions About Concrete Truck Capacity
Can You Order Less Than a Full Truck of Concrete?
Yes, but expect to pay more per yard. Many ready-mix suppliers offer short-load services for small batches. These are perfect for DIY jobs like stairs, walkways, or fence post footings.
How Many Wheelbarrows Are in a Yard of Concrete?
A typical wheelbarrow holds about 3 cubic feet Because one cubic yard is equal to 27 cubic feet:
1 yard ≈ 9 full wheelbarrows
So, a 10-yard truck equals about 90 wheelbarrows of concrete!
What Happens if You Order Too Much Concrete?
Leftover concrete hardens quickly and can’t be reused. Some companies charge disposal fees for excess mix, while others offer to pour it into washout pits or molds for future use. Ordering slightly less and topping up later is safer than wasting a load.
Practical Tips Before Your Concrete Delivery
Preparing Your Site
Before the truck arrives:
- Ensure forms are in place and level.
- Prepare a stable subgrade and ensure proper reinforcement (rebar or mesh).
- Make sure the truck can access the site safely; tight driveways may need smaller trucks.
Coordinating Multiple Loads
For large pours exceeding 10 yards, coordinate staggered deliveries to keep the mix fresh and consistent. Concrete typically needs to be poured within 90 minutes of mixing, or it starts to harden.
Avoiding Wastage and Ensuring Quality
- Order based on accurate site measurements.
- Keep tools ready before delivery to prevent delays.
- If possible, hire a concrete finisher to ensure a smooth, durable surface.
Key Takeaways
- A standard concrete truck carries 8–10 cubic yards.
- Smaller mini-mix trucks can deliver 1–4 yards for residential projects.
- Always calculate concrete needs using the Length × Width × Depth ÷ 27 formula.
- Consider short-load fees, weight restrictions, and mix type when ordering.
- Proper preparation before delivery saves money and prevents waste.
Final Thoughts
Understanding how many yards in a truck of concrete gives you control over your project’s cost, schedule, and quality. Whether you’re a homeowner pouring a patio or a contractor building a foundation, knowing your truck size, mix requirements, and delivery logistics ensures a smoother experience.
Before ordering, double-check your calculations using an online concrete calculator, talk to your ready-mix supplier, and plan ahead for efficient delivery.
When you’re informed, you don’t just pour concrete you build smarter.