Ready Mix Calculator: Free Online Ready-mix Concrete Estimator
Use our free ready mix calculator to determine exactly how much ready-mix concrete to order and what it will cost. Designed for contractors, builders, and serious DIYers, this tool calculates the cubic yards of concrete needed and the estimated cost based on your local price per yard. Enter your length, width, thickness, and cost per yard to get instant, accurate results for placing your concrete order.
How to use this calculator.
- Measure your project dimensions. Measure the length and width of the slab in feet and the thickness in inches. For irregular shapes, divide into rectangles and calculate each separately.
- Enter your cost per cubic yard. The default is $150 per cubic yard, which is the US average for 3,000 PSI ready-mix. Adjust this based on quotes from your local ready-mix supplier. Higher strength mixes cost $150-$250 per yard.
- Review your results. The calculator displays the volume in cubic yards and the estimated total cost. Round up to the nearest 0.5 yard when placing your order and add 5-10% for waste.
How do you calculate ready-mix concrete volume and cost?
Ready-mix concrete volume is calculated from rectangular dimensions and converted to cubic yards. The cost is then estimated by multiplying volume by the per-yard price.
Volume (cu yd) = Length (ft) × Width (ft) × Thickness (in) ÷ 324
Estimated Cost ($) = Volume (cu yd) × Cost per Yard ($)
Where:
- 324 comes from 12 (inches to feet) × 27 (cubic feet to cubic yards).
- 3,000 PSI is the standard mix for residential driveways, patios, and sidewalks.
- Short-load fees of $40-$80 apply to orders below the supplier's minimum (typically 1-3 yards).
Example calculation.
Let's calculate the ready-mix order for a driveway replacement.
Scenario: You are replacing a driveway that is 40 ft long and 16 ft wide with 6 inches of concrete at $150 per cubic yard.
- Calculate the volume: 40 ft × 16 ft × 6 in ÷ 324 = 11.85 cu yd
- Add 10% waste: 11.85 × 1.10 = 13.04 cu yd
- Round up: Order 13.5 cu yd
- Estimate cost: 13.5 × $150 = $2,025
Result: You should order 13.5 cubic yardsof 3,000 PSI ready-mix concrete at an estimated cost of $2,025. This is about 2 full truckloads (a standard mixer truck holds 9-10 yards).
Tips from the field.
- Call for quotes early. Call at least 2-3 ready-mix suppliers for pricing. Prices can vary $20-$50 per yard between suppliers. Ask about short-load fees, fuel surcharges, weekend delivery fees, and standby time charges.
- Schedule the pour for morning. Book the first or second delivery of the day. If you run short, the batch plant is still open to send a top-up load. Afternoon pours that run short risk an overnight cold joint.
- Have a wheelbarrow plan. If the truck cannot reach the pour site, you need a plan for moving concrete: wheelbarrows, a concrete pump ($300-$500), or a Georgia buggy. Each wheelbarrow holds about 2 cubic feet; a full yard needs 13-14 wheelbarrow trips.
- Know your slump. Specify the slump (workability) when ordering. A 4-inch slump is standard for slabs. Do not let the driver add water on-site to increase slump: it weakens the concrete. Order a higher slump from the plant if needed.
Disclaimer: This calculator provides estimates for planning purposes only. Actual costs vary by region, supplier, mix design, delivery distance, and market conditions. Prices shown are estimates and do not include taxes, environmental fees, fuel surcharges, or short-load charges. Always obtain written quotes from local suppliers. PavementCalculator.com assumes no liability for cost discrepancies or material shortages.
Cost, price, and density figures on this page reflect approximate U.S. averages as of August 2026 and vary by region, supplier, and material availability.
Frequently asked questions.
How much does a yard of ready-mix concrete cost?
Ready-mix concrete typically costs $125 to $175 per cubic yard for standard 3,000 PSI mix, depending on your location. Higher strength mixes (4,000-5,000 PSI), colored concrete, or specialty mixes can cost $150 to $250 per yard. Most suppliers have a minimum delivery of 1 to 3 yards and short-load fees for small orders.
What is the minimum order for ready-mix concrete?
Most ready-mix suppliers require a minimum order of 1 to 3 cubic yards. Orders below the minimum are subject to short-load fees, typically $40 to $80. For very small projects under 1 cubic yard, bagged concrete mix is usually more cost-effective.
How far in advance should I order ready-mix concrete?
For standard residential orders, 24 to 48 hours notice is usually sufficient. Large commercial pours or specialty mixes may require 3 to 7 days advance notice. During peak construction season (spring/summer), plan at least a week ahead to ensure availability.
What PSI concrete do I need for a driveway?
A 3,000 PSI mix is standard for residential driveways and is sufficient for passenger vehicles. For driveways that will see heavier vehicles like RVs or work trucks, upgrade to 4,000 PSI. Air-entrained concrete is recommended in freeze-thaw climates to improve durability.
How much does ready mix concrete cost?
Ready mix costs $125-$175 per cubic yard delivered. Small loads (<5 yards) may have a $50-$100 surcharge. High-strength mixes (4,000+ PSI) cost $150-$200/yard. Most residential projects need 5-15 yards. Use our calculator for volume, then call local plants for pricing.