Concrete mixer trucks are essential vehicles for construction projects. These specialized trucks are designed to transport concrete from the batch plant to the job site. If you’re in the market for a concrete mixer truck, you’re likely wondering about the cost and capacity of these trucks. In this article, we’ll explore the different factors that impact the cost of a concrete mixer truck, estimate how much you can expect to pay for a new or used truck, and discuss the capacity of these vehicles.
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Factors That Affect the Cost of a Concrete Mixer Truck
The cost of a concrete mixer truck can vary depending on its size and features. Here are some of the factors that impact the cost:
Size: Concrete mixer trucks are available in various sizes, from small transit mixers to large dump trucks. Generally, the larger the truck, the higher the price.
Features: There are several features to consider when selecting a concrete mixer truck. These include the drum size, type of drive (hydraulic or manual), mixer (tilt, rear discharge, or front discharge), number of axles, engine type, transmission, and brand. The more features a truck has, the higher its price.
New vs. Used: A new concrete mixer truck can cost anywhere from $50,000 to $100,000, while a used truck may cost significantly less. However, a used truck may have only some of the features you need or want.
Capacity of a Concrete Mixer Truck
Most concrete mixer trucks can carry between 8 and 10 cubic yards of concrete, with an average load of around 40,000 pounds. However, the weight of the truck itself must also be taken into account. Empty, a concrete truck typically weighs in at about 25,000 pounds. The truck can weigh up to 65,000 pounds when carrying a full load.
Calculating the amount of concrete in a fully-loaded truck can be done by converting cubic yards to cubic feet. There are 27 cubic feet in a cubic yard, meaning a fully-loaded concrete mixer truck can hold approximately 216 cubic feet of concrete. Additionally, these trucks can hold between 200 and 300 gallons of water.
Finding the Right Concrete Mixer Truck for Your Needs
When shopping for a concrete mixer truck, comparing prices from multiple dealers is essential. Also, check online classifieds websites like Craigslist or eBay for trucks that private sellers sell. Considering the abovementioned factors, you can find the right concrete mixer truck for your needs.
Is a Concrete Mixer Truck a Good Investment?
A concrete mixer truck is specially designed to transport and mix concrete. Equipped with a revolving drum, it can mix the concrete to the construction site. Concrete trucks are available in different sizes to cater to various construction projects. Investing in a concrete mixer truck can be a wise decision for construction companies that require a dependable way to transport and mix concrete.
Offsetting Costs with Savings
Although buying a concrete truck is a significant investment, it can save a lot of time and labor costs in the long run. In addition to its primary use, a concrete truck can be utilized for other purposes, such as hauling sand or gravel. Therefore, a concrete mixer truck can be a valuable and versatile asset for any construction company.
Differentiating Between Cement and Concrete Trucks
Although they are similar, cement and concrete are not interchangeable terms. While cement is a crucial ingredient in concrete, it is not the only one. Concrete consists of varying proportions of cement, water, sand, and stone, depending on the concrete type. For example, “high-strength concrete” uses a higher proportion of cement, while “lightweight concrete” uses a lower ratio. After mixing, these ingredients form a paste that hardens into concrete. Therefore, while all concrete contains cement, not all cement becomes concrete. Cement is used for other purposes, such as making mortar and stucco.
When referring to the trucks that transport these materials, it is more accurate to call them “concrete” trucks instead of “cement” trucks. This is because the primary ingredient carried in these trucks is concrete, not just cement. The correct terminology is essential to avoid confusion when discussing these two construction materials.
Is It More Affordable to Mix Your Own Concrete?
Concrete is a versatile and commonly used building material from foundations to driveways. While premixed concrete is available for purchase, mixing your own is often a more cost-effective option, providing greater control over the finished product and ensuring fresh ingredients.
Mixing concrete does require time and effort, but it is a simple process. Investing in a mixer may be worthwhile for significant projects requiring a large quantity of concrete. Still, for smaller projects, a shovel and wheelbarrow will suffice. The key to successfully mixing concrete is achieving the correct cement, sand, and gravel ratio.
Once you have combined the dry ingredients, add water until the mixture reaches the consistency of peanut butter. Use a hoe or trowel to combine all ingredients thoroughly. The concrete can be used immediately or stored in a cool, dry location.
Conclusion
Concrete mixer trucks are specialized equipment used to transport and mix concrete. While they can be a significant investment, they are a reliable option for construction companies that frequently require the transportation and mixing of concrete. Concrete trucks come in various sizes and can be used for other purposes when not transporting concrete.
