Prices for a yard of concrete delivered to a typical U.S. job site vary by mix type, distance, and minimum order. The main cost drivers are the concrete price per yard, delivery fee, and any surcharges for accessibility or time windows. This article provides practical, dollar-range estimates to help buyers budget accurately.
| Item | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Concrete price per cubic yard | $120 | $150 | $180 | Common ready-mix ranges; region and mix strength affect price |
| Delivery fee | $60 | $110 | $150 | Distance, access, and fuel surcharges apply |
| Minimum order | 1 yd³ | 2 yd³ | 4 yd³ or more | Some suppliers require 2–4 yd³ minimum |
| Tax | $0 | $8 | $25 | varies by state and city |
| Additional services | $20 | $65 | $120 | Edge forms, finishing, placement, or pumping |
Overview Of Costs
Typical project range for one cubic yard of ready-mix concrete delivered is about $180-$330 depending on mix, distance, and added services. A larger job benefits from economies of scale, often bringing per-yard costs down for the same delivery radius. For budgeting, assume no more than two to four yards per delivery to minimize repeated trip charges.
Cost Breakdown
The following table breaks down the main cost components for a single yard delivered. The amounts reflect typical U.S. market conditions and may vary by region and supplier.
| Component | Low | Average | High | Notes | Assumptions |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Materials | $120 | $150 | $180 | Concrete mix grade and cement content | 1 yd³, standard 3000–3500 psi concrete |
| Delivery | $60 | $110 | $150 | Distance and access charges | Urban to suburban, typical access |
| Labor/Placement | $0 | $50 | $100 | Pumping or manual finish | Short pour, simple finish |
| Equipment | $0 | $10 | $40 | Concrete pump or wheelbarrow use | Limited equipment needs |
| Permits/Fees | $0 | $5 | $20 | Local permitting if required | Typically not required for small residential pours |
| Taxes | $0 | $8 | $25 | Sales tax varies | Depends on state |
| Contingency | 5% | 10% | 15% | Unforeseen adjustments | Based on total |
Factors That Affect Price
Distance to site is a primary driver; longer trips raise delivery fees and may require additional fuel surcharges. Concrete mix and strength (for example, 3000 vs 3500 psi) significantly change per-yard pricing. Accessibility challenges, such as tight driveways or gated areas, can trigger truck rental or pumping surcharges.
Regional Price Differences
Prices vary across regions due to labor, fuel, and market demand. In the chart below, each region shows a typical range for a single yard delivered, before any pumping or finishing services.
| Region | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| West Coast | $140 | $170 | $210 | Higher mix and delivery costs |
| Midwest | $125 | $155 | $190 | Balanced supply and demand |
| Southeast | $120 | $150 | $185 | Moderate delivery costs |
Labor, Hours & Rates
For small residential pours, labor is often bundled into delivery or charged as a placement fee. Typical labor add-ons range from $50 to $100 per yard when pumping, finishing, or edge-form work is required. Heavier pours or complex finishes may push these costs higher.
Additional & Hidden Costs
Some suppliers impose minimum order surcharges if a project falls below the typical yard volume. Time-window fees can apply for off-peak deliveries. If a site requires a concrete pump, expect a separate equipment charge and possible crew time increases.
Real-World Pricing Examples
Three scenario cards illustrate typical quotes for common residential pours. Assumptions: region: suburban; distance: within 15 miles; no special admixtures; weather permitting.
- Basic (1 yd³, standard concrete, no pump): 1 yd³ @ $130, delivery $90, tax $6 → total $226
- Mid-Range (2 yd³, standard mix, wheelbarrow finish): 2 yd³ @ $150/yd³, delivery $110, finish $60, tax $12 → total $482
- Premium (3 yd³, high-strength 4000 psi, pumping, edging): 3 yd³ @ $170/yd³, delivery $140, pump $180, finish $120, tax $25 → total $1,055
Assumptions: region, specs, labor hours.
Ways To Save
Booking a single truck for multiple yard pours in a single day can reduce per-yard delivery costs. Scheduling deliveries during off-peak times may lower time-window surcharges. If feasible, choosing a standard strength concrete and avoiding pumping can reduce both material and service fees.
