In the USA, concrete is shipped using cubic yards. A standard-sized concrete truck will hold around 9 yards of concrete.
This is sufficient to provide concrete for a slab of concrete that is 8 ft. x 10 ft. and 4-inches thick.
This figure can vary by yard either way. There are some trucks that will only carry 8 yards, and there are some trucks that carry 10 yards. All of these factors mainly depend on the size of the truck.
The model of the truck is often the deciding factor, as is the weight limit imposed to stop trucks from damaging roads. This can vary from jurisdiction to jurisdiction. Even the trucks that have a capacity of 10 yards will typically only deliver 9 yards.
According to a mixer truck driver in Indianapolis, his company says there is a risk of damaging roadways if a truck is over 9.5 yards. This view is supported by many other sources.
How Long Can You Keep Concrete in the Truck Before It Sets?
There’s always a risk that the concrete will begin to set inside the drum of the truck. The longer it is in there, the more likely it is that this will happen. With that being said, ensuring that the truck arrives at the job site in a timely manner should ensure that there is no issue.
Generally speaking, most companies aim to arrive at the job site and start unloading within 1 – 2 hours of leaving the plant. Anything beyond this time frame increases the risk of concrete setting inside the truck. The 1-2 hour timeframe is based on temperatures between 60 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit.
If the temperature is lower or higher than this, then it’s recommended to adjust the timeframe accordingly. Colder temperatures may also indicate that the concrete needs to be insulated in order to maintain an appropriate temperature.
What Kind of Concrete Mix Do You Need?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to the kind of concrete mix you’ll need. The type of concrete that you use will depend on the intended application, as well as your local building code requirements.
For residential projects, a standard grade of concrete is usually sufficient, while larger commercial and industrial projects may require a higher grade of concrete.
It’s always best to consult with a professional before purchasing any materials for your project, as there may be specific requirements that need to be followed. This will ensure that the concrete mix you use is suitable for its intended purpose.
What Happens if a Load Expires?
It’s possible that a load of concrete may expire before it can be used. This is usually due to a delay in the delivery process, or if the concrete has set inside the truck after being left too long.
If this happens, then it’s likely that the concrete will need to be disposed of and new materials ordered.
In some cases, they can be ambushed and used for some low-level tasks, all of which depend on how long the concrete have been left and set. Some companies may try to fix this solution by pouring aging mix to the bunker block molds.
If they do not have time or the mix has gone past that point, the mix may be dumped.
Final Thoughts
A standard concrete truck can hold up to 9 yards of concrete, although some may only hold 8 yards. It’s important to keep in mind that the amount of concrete a truck is able to carry is largely dependent on the size of the truck and the load limits imposed by local regulations.
When transporting concrete, it’s important to factor in transit time to ensure that the material does not set inside the truck. Colder temperatures may also require extra insulation to maintain an appropriate temperature.
Considering how much the truck can transport will have an impact on how many loads there will be. Trucks waiting at building sites are costing the trucking company money and they want the concrete poured as quickly as possible.
