When ordering ready-mix concrete for a construction project, one of the first questions people ask is, "How many yards does a concrete truck hold?" Knowing the capacity of a concrete truck helps you estimate the number of deliveries required, reduce waste, and avoid delays during a concrete pour.
Most standard ready-mix concrete trucks carry 8 to 10 cubic yards of concrete. However, truck capacities can range from 3 cubic yards for small mixer trucks to 14 cubic yards for large commercial trucks, depending on local regulations, truck size, and the weight of the concrete mix.
In this guide, we'll explain the typical capacity of concrete trucks, how to calculate the amount of concrete your project needs, and how many truckloads you'll require.
Standard Concrete Truck Capacity
A standard ready-mix concrete truck usually carries:
- 8 cubic yards (small standard truck)
- 9 cubic yards (most common)
- 10 cubic yards (large standard truck)
Although the drum may physically hold more concrete, trucks are often loaded below their maximum capacity to comply with road weight limits.
For large commercial projects, suppliers may use trucks capable of carrying 11 to 14 cubic yards, while mini mixer trucks may carry only 3 to 6 cubic yards.
Types of Concrete Trucks
Standard Ready-Mix Truck
This is the most common truck used for residential and commercial construction.
Typical capacity:
-
8–10 cubic yards
Common uses:
- House foundations
- Driveways
- Sidewalks
- Garage slabs
- Patios
Mini Concrete Truck
Mini mixers are designed for projects with limited access or smaller concrete requirements.
Typical capacity:
-
3–6 cubic yards
Common uses:
- Walkways
- Fence posts
- Small slabs
- Home renovations
Large Commercial Mixer
Heavy-duty mixer trucks are used for large-scale commercial projects.
Typical capacity:
-
10–14 cubic yards
Common uses:
- Highways
- Bridges
- Large foundations
- Industrial buildings
Concrete Truck Capacity Chart
| Truck Type | Typical Capacity |
|---|---|
| Mini Mixer | 3–6 cubic yards |
| Standard Mixer | 8–10 cubic yards |
| Large Commercial Mixer | 10–14 cubic yards |
How to Calculate Concrete Volume
Before ordering concrete, calculate the total volume required.
Formula
The volume of a rectangular slab is calculated as:
Since ready-mix concrete is sold in cubic yards, divide the result by 27 because:
-
1 cubic yard = 27 cubic feet
Formula
Important: Thickness must be converted to feet before using the formula.
For example:
- 4 inches = 0.333 ft
- 5 inches = 0.417 ft
- 6 inches = 0.5 ft
Example Calculation
Suppose you are pouring a driveway that measures:
- Length = 30 ft
- Width = 20 ft
- Thickness = 4 inches (0.333 ft)
Step 1: Calculate cubic feet
Step 2: Convert to cubic yards
You should order approximately 7.5 cubic yards of concrete.
Many contractors also recommend adding 5–10% extra to account for uneven ground, spillage, and waste.
How Many Truckloads Do You Need?
Once you know the required concrete volume, divide it by the capacity of the truck.
Formula
Example
If your project requires 25 cubic yards and each truck carries 10 cubic yards:
Since a partial truck is still needed, you'll require 3 truckloads.
Factors That Affect Concrete Truck Capacity
Several factors determine how much concrete a truck can safely transport.
Weight Restrictions
Concrete weighs approximately 4,000 pounds per cubic yard (2,400 kg/m³).
Because of this weight, trucks may not always be loaded to their maximum drum capacity.
Local Road Regulations
Different states and countries have different legal weight limits for commercial vehicles.
These regulations often determine the maximum amount of concrete a truck can carry.
Concrete Mix Design
High-strength or specialty concrete mixes may weigh more than standard concrete.
Heavier mixes can slightly reduce the amount loaded onto the truck.
Drum Capacity
Although many mixer drums can physically hold more than 10 cubic yards, suppliers often leave extra space inside the drum so the concrete can continue mixing properly during transport.
Tips for Ordering Ready-Mix Concrete
Before placing your order:
- Measure your project carefully.
- Calculate the total concrete volume.
- Add 5–10% extra for waste.
- Confirm the truck's capacity with your supplier.
- Make sure the truck can access the job site.
- Schedule enough workers before the concrete arrives.
- Prepare all forms and reinforcement in advance.
Proper planning helps prevent cold joints and delays during the pour.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many cubic yards does a standard concrete truck hold?
Most standard ready-mix trucks carry 8 to 10 cubic yards of concrete.
What is the largest concrete truck capacity?
Some commercial mixer trucks can carry up to 14 cubic yards, depending on local weight regulations.
How much area does 10 cubic yards of concrete cover?
At a thickness of 4 inches, 10 cubic yards will cover approximately 810 square feet.
Can I order half a truck of concrete?
Yes. Most suppliers allow partial loads, although a short-load fee may apply.
How much does one cubic yard of concrete weigh?
One cubic yard of normal-weight concrete weighs approximately 4,000 pounds (about 1,814 kg).
Conclusion
Most ready-mix concrete trucks carry between 8 and 10 cubic yards of concrete, making them suitable for residential driveways, patios, foundations, and sidewalks. Smaller mini mixers typically hold 3 to 6 cubic yards, while large commercial trucks may carry up to 14 cubic yards, depending on local transportation regulations.
Before ordering concrete, calculate your project's volume accurately, convert it to cubic yards, and divide it by the truck's capacity to estimate the number of deliveries required. Ordering the correct amount of concrete helps reduce waste, avoid unnecessary costs, and keep your project running smoothly.