Concrete Price per Yard vs. Delivery Costs: What You Need to Know for Your Next Project

When you are planning a construction project, one of the first steps is understanding your materials costs, and for many, concrete is one of the most significant expenses. However, when it comes to purchasing concrete, it’s not just the concrete price per yard you need to worry about; delivery costs play a huge role in the final total. Whether you're a contractor managing a large job or a homeowner tackling a DIY project, knowing the breakdown of both costs will help you budget more accurately, avoid surprises, and make better purchasing decisions.

In this blog post, we’ll explore the relationship between concrete price per yard and delivery costs. We will cover everything you need to know, from understanding the different pricing factors to how you can save money on your concrete order. We’ll also touch on specific terms like ready mix concrete price per yard, cost of concrete per cubic yard, and even the cost of a yard of concrete delivered. By the end, you will be equipped with the knowledge to make informed decisions for your next project.

Understanding Concrete Price per Yard

The cost of concrete per yard can vary greatly depending on several factors, including the region where the concrete is being purchased, the type of mix needed, and whether you are using specialty concrete like fiber concrete or ready mix concrete. Concrete is typically sold by the cubic yard, so knowing how much you need is essential for getting an accurate price. In most cases, concrete price per yard will range between $100 and $150, but this can fluctuate depending on local market conditions, the supplier, and the project specifics.

For example, standard cement per yard cost tends to be less expensive than more specialized mixes such as high-strength ready mix concrete or fiber-reinforced mixes. Fiber concrete cost per yard can be considerably higher due to the additional materials and processing involved in manufacturing the mix. If you are working on a project that requires high-strength concrete, such as a driveway or foundation, be prepared for these additional costs.

The Role of Delivery Costs in Concrete Pricing

While the concrete price per yard is a substantial part of the overall cost, the price of delivered concrete per yard can often surprise buyers who aren't aware of how much transportation can add to the total. In many cases, concrete cost per yard delivered can be 10% to 20% higher than just the price of a yard of concrete. Delivery fees can vary based on distance, delivery time, and accessibility to your site. For example, the cost of concrete per cubic yard might be the same whether you're ordering from a local supplier or one located further away, but once delivery is factored in, it becomes crucial to know the cost of a yard of concrete delivered.

The farther the distance from the supplier to your project site, the higher the delivery charges. Local suppliers often provide lower local concrete prices per yard and reduced delivery costs compared to those that need to ship concrete long distances. Therefore, always factor in delivery costs when calculating your total concrete expenses.

Ready Mix Concrete and Delivery

One of the most common types of concrete ordered for construction projects is ready mix concrete. This pre-mixed concrete is delivered by truck and is a convenient option because it ensures you receive a uniform mixture and eliminates the need for on-site mixing. However, ready mix concrete price per yard tends to be a bit higher than regular bulk concrete because of the mixing process and the added convenience of ready-to-use concrete.

When ordering ready mix concrete, you’ll also need to consider delivery charges, which will vary depending on the distance, project size, and the supplier. Ready mix concrete cost per yard can be anywhere from $120 to $180 or more, but delivery fees will still apply. Keep in mind that the price of a yard of concrete near me might be less than from a distant supplier, but once you factor in the delivery charges, the final price could be comparable.

Additional Considerations: Yard Equipment Rental

In addition to the concrete and delivery costs, another potential expense for your project is the cost of yard equipment rental. If you don’t already have the necessary equipment to handle large amounts of concrete, renting a cement truck or other machinery can be a great solution. Rental rates for yard equipment near me will depend on the equipment needed for your project, and these costs can add up quickly. The cement truck cost per yard can vary from one supplier to another, so be sure to compare rental rates and factor this into your overall budget.

If you’re working with a larger project, you may need more specialized equipment, such as yard rollers or cement mixers. Depending on the job, the cost per yard of ready mix concrete may not be your only expense—you may also need to account for other tools and equipment necessary to complete the work efficiently.

Ways to Save on Concrete Costs

Now that you have a better understanding of the relationship between concrete price per yard and delivery costs, here are a few tips for minimizing expenses:

• Order in Bulk: One of the best ways to save on cost per yard of ready mix concreteis to order in bulk. Many suppliers offer discounts for large orders, so if you’re working on a substantial project, ordering more concrete at once can save you money per yard.
• Choose Local Suppliers: Opting for a supplier closer to your project site can save a significant amount on cost of concrete per cubic yard delivered. Look for local concrete prices per yardto ensure you're not paying extra for transportation.
• Be Precise with Measurements: Overordering is one of the most common mistakes in concrete projects. Always measure your project site carefully and use a concrete calculatorto ensure you're ordering the right amount of concrete. This helps prevent wastage and can reduce both material and delivery costs.
• Consider Specialty Mixes: While fiber concrete cost per yardmight be higher than standard concrete, it can be a good investment in the long run. Depending on your project needs, specialty mixes might offer more durability and performance, saving you money on future repairs or maintenance.
• Check for Hidden Fees: Be sure to ask your supplier for a breakdown of all costs involved, including delivery fees, equipment rental, and any additional charges that may arise during the process. Knowing the cement truck cost per yardor cost of a yard of concrete delivered upfront can prevent unexpected charges later on.

Final Thoughts: Concrete Costs and Budgeting

Understanding the full scope of concrete price per yard and the associated delivery costs is essential for staying within budget on your next project. By factoring in both the cost of the material and the delivery fees, you can create a more accurate budget and avoid surprises. Additionally, knowing how to save money on yard equipment rental, bulk orders, and local suppliers will help you make the most of your concrete purchase.

Ultimately, whether you're ordering ready mix concrete, cement per yard cost, or any other type of mix, it’s crucial to do your research and plan ahead. With the right preparation and knowledge, you can keep your concrete costs under control and ensure your project is a success.