The cost of ready-mix concrete depends on several factors, including the quantity ordered, location, mix type, and delivery fees. In general, pricing is based on a per-yard rate, with discounts available for larger orders.
For those in Crosby, TX, and the greater Houston area, the average price for 3000 PSI ready-mix concrete typically falls between $130 and $145 per cubic yard, depending on order size.
Let’s break down how much a full load of ready-mix concrete costs and what factors influence pricing.
Average Cost of Ready-Mix Concrete Per Yard
Concrete suppliers price ready-mix concrete by the cubic yard, with bulk discounts for larger projects.
For a standard 3000 PSI mix, the pricing structure in Crosby and surrounding areas is:
✔ 100+ yards → $130 per yard
✔ 50–99 yards → $135 per yard
✔ Less than 50 yards → $145 per yard
Since concrete trucks typically carry 10 yards per load, this means:
🔹 A full truckload (10 yards) for a 100+ yard order costs $1,300
🔹 A full truckload for a 50–99 yard order costs $1,350
🔹 A full truckload for orders under 50 yards costs $1,450
Smaller projects that require less than 10 yards may incur short-load fees to cover transportation and batching costs.
How Much Does a Full Load of Ready-Mix Concrete Cost?
A full load of concrete typically means ordering 10 cubic yards, as that is the capacity of a standard concrete mixer truck.
Here’s what a full truckload costs based on order size:
✔ For large projects (100+ yards) → $1,300 per truckload
✔ For medium projects (50–99 yards) → $1,350 per truckload
✔ For small projects (under 50 yards) → $1,450 per truckload
For commercial projects, foundations, or large driveways, ordering 100+ yards results in the lowest cost per yard.
For smaller residential projects like patios, sidewalks, or shed slabs, smaller orders are common, but the price per yard is slightly higher.
What Affects the Cost of Ready Mix Concrete?
The total cost of a concrete delivery depends on several factors beyond just the per-yard pricing.
✔ Order Size – The more concrete ordered, the lower the price per yard due to batching efficiencies.
✔ Delivery Distance – Suppliers often charge extra for longer hauls beyond a certain radius.
✔ Concrete Strength – A standard 3000 PSI mix is the most affordable, but higher PSI mixes (4000–5000 PSI) cost more.
✔ Additives & Specialty Mixes – Reinforcement fibers, accelerators, and retarders increase costs.
✔ Time on Site – Concrete trucks allow a limited unloading time; additional wait time incurs fees.
For projects requiring higher PSI mixes or special additives, pricing will vary accordingly.
Rising fuel prices can drive up delivery fees, so fuel costs are frequently taken into account. Projects located in remote or difficult-to-access areas may incur additional fees beyond the standard delivery radius. To avoid unexpected costs, you should discuss these variables with your supplier ahead of time. Planning ahead and selecting the appropriate mix for your project can result in significant long-term savings.
Short-Load Fees for Small Concrete Orders
For projects requiring less than a full truckload, concrete suppliers may charge short-load fees to compensate for the inefficiencies of small batches.
A partial load (1–5 yards) often incurs an additional delivery fee ranging from $50 to $150, depending on the supplier’s policy.
To reduce costs for small projects, some contractors try to combine orders with other jobs in the area to reach a full load.
Additional Fees & Considerations
In addition to the base per-yard price, other fees may apply, including:
✔ Fuel Surcharges – Based on the distance from the batch plant.
✔ Waiting Time Fees – Trucks allow 5–7 minutes per yard for unloading; exceeding this time incurs extra charges per minute.
✔ Weekend or After-Hours Delivery – Some suppliers charge extra for Saturday or evening deliveries.
✔ Winter Heating Fees – In colder months, concrete may require heated water, adding $5–$15 per yard.
To avoid unexpected charges, it’s best to plan ahead, ensure the site is ready for pouring, and schedule during regular hours when possible.
How to Save Money on Ready-Mix Concrete
To get the best price on ready-mix concrete, consider the following:
✔ Order in Bulk – If the project requires large quantities, ordering 100+ yards offers the best rate per yard.
✔ Prepare the Site – Ensure the crew is ready to pour upon arrival to avoid waiting time fees.
✔ Choose Standard Mixes – Specialty concrete and higher PSI mixes cost more.
✔ Schedule Smartly – Avoid unnecessary surcharges by scheduling during normal business hours.
For larger projects, working with a local supplier that offers bulk pricing can significantly reduce costs.
Final Thoughts
The cost of ready-mix concrete varies based on quantity, location, and mix type. In Crosby and the surrounding Houston area, prices for 3000 PSI concrete generally range from $130 to $145 per yard, with bulk discounts for larger orders.
A full truckload (10 yards) costs between $1,300 and $1,450, depending on the total volume ordered. Additional fees may apply for short loads, long-distance deliveries, or specialty mixes.
For contractors, homebuilders, and property owners, planning ahead and ordering the right quantity can help minimize costs and avoid delays.
Would you like additional details on higher PSI mixes or specialty additives? Let us know! 🚧💪
Disclaimer: Prices are subject to change without prior notice. The information in this article is for educational purposes only and may not reflect the most up-to-date pricing. For accurate and current pricing based on your specific order requirements, please contact us directly.
