You’ve got big projects on the books and even bigger plans in mind. If cement plays a role in your vision for the future, you’re going to rely on concrete trucks to get the job done. The question is, how much does a concrete truck cost?
Concrete truck costs vary based on factors like whether you are buying new or used, the size of the machinery, and even the brand name of the equipment. Here’s everything you need to know about the price of cement trucks so you can make an informed purchasing decision.
What Is a Concrete Truck?
A concrete truck is a vehicle that mixes and transports cement from the mixing plant to the construction site. The rotating drum mounted to the chassis continuously mixes and agitates the concrete to prevent it from hardening.
Types of Concrete Trucks
Not all concrete trucks are the same. Some are better suited to certain kinds of work than others, so it’s important to understand their differences. Common types of concrete trucks include:
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Standard transit mixers (also known as drum mixers) have a rotating drum mounted on the back, mixing as it drives to the delivery site.
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Volumetric mixers have separate sand, water, aggregate, and cement compartments, allowing them to be mixed on-site.
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Front discharge mixers have a drum mounted at the front of the vehicle, allowing the driver to precisely dispense concrete.
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Rear discharge mixers can discharge concrete at various angles via the rear-mounted mixer.
Transit mixers are the most common and usually the most affordable. Volumetric mixers are incredibly complex, meaning they also carry a higher price tag and are more difficult to maintain.
How Much Is a Concrete Truck?
Concrete trucks have no set price, and many variables will impact the price tag. How much does a new concrete truck cost? You’ll have a difficult time finding a new truck for under $100,000.
If you want to minimize the cost of a concrete truck, consider a well-maintained used option. Used concrete truck costs can range from $30,000 to $150,000, depending on the age, size, and type of truck.
Factors Affecting Concrete Truck Cost
Buying the lowest-priced vehicle makes sense if you need to keep costs down. But that doesn’t mean that it is going to be the right concrete truck for your needs. Paying more upfront can give you features and reliability that will make your work easier. To help you better understand what you’ll pay, here are several variables that affect cement truck costs:
Truck Size and Capacity
Bigger trucks carry more cubic yards of concrete in a single trip. While they have a larger capacity, they are also more expensive due to the need for a bigger engine, mixer, and other components.
Type of Mixer
Different types of mixers, such as transit and volumetric mixers, offer varying flexibility and efficiency. Transit mixers tend to be the most economical. Volumetric mixers are far more complicated, making them more expensive to buy and maintain.
Engine Power and Performance
A more powerful engine will cost more than a smaller engine. However, it will perform better and may have a longer lifespan. You’ll need to weigh the initial cost against the long-term savings.
Age and Mileage
Like any vehicle, a concrete truck's age and mileage will affect its price. Newer trucks command higher prices and probably won’t need any immediate repairs. Older trucks with high miles may require frequent maintenance from the get-go.
Brand and Model
Certain brands, like Mack, Peterbilt, and Kenworth, as well as different models are known for their reliability and higher resale value. Buy from a reputable brand, especially if you intend to perform any vehicle upkeep yourself.
Condition and Maintenance History
The condition of the truck and its maintenance history are crucial considerations when buying used. Well-maintained trucks may cost more up front but save you money on repairs and downtime.
Fuel Efficiency
Fuel costs are a big expense for any fleet vehicle. Trucks with better fuel efficiency may cost you more initially. However, even a difference of a few miles per gallon in fuel efficiency can save you thousands over the lifetime of the vehicle.
Transmission Type
Concrete trucks are available with automatic and manual transmissions. Automatic transmissions are more expensive and complicated, and you'll pay more if you have to make repairs or replace the transmission.
Manual or stick shift trucks require additional skill to operate. However, they also tend to be cheaper and easier to maintain.
Additional Features and Technology
Newer trucks have high-end features and tech, like GPS tracking and ergonomic cab designs. Consider whether these amenities are “must haves” or something on your wishlist. You can save tens of thousands of dollars by opting for a slightly older truck without all the bells and whistles.
How Much Does It Cost to Rent a Cement Truck?
Prices vary, but expect to pay at least a few hundred dollars per hour. You will also be charged for each cubic foot of concrete that you pump, so keep that in mind when considering a rental.
You might be willing to deal with the high cement truck rental cost for a one-off job here and there. However, if you regularly need a concrete truck, it’s best to invest in a high-quality, used model.
Tips for Buying a Used Concrete Truck
No one wants to go into a big purchase without the right guidance. Here are a few more tips to help you find a great concrete mixer priced within your budget.
Determine Your Needs
Don’t look for deals until you’ve identified your minimum equipment requirements. Decide what capacity mixer you need and the type of truck that best suits your work. Then, based on your intended use case, narrow down your list of potential options.
Set Your Budget
Set a realistic budget that includes the purchase price and operating costs. Don’t redline your budget by purchasing a brand-new truck that costs hundreds of thousands of dollars if you’re only going to use it occasionally. Take advantage of deals available on used vehicles and leave wiggle room in your budget to cover upkeep.
Search Online Auctions for Deals
An online auction site like Purple Wave can help you get a great concrete mixer at a great price. Our nationwide auction connects you with great deals on used trucks so you can save money while also meeting your company’s equipment needs.
Buy Concrete Trucks Online With Purple Wave
Purple Wave is the premier online auction for construction equipment, heavy machinery, and concrete trucks. Check out our huge selection of concrete equipment and find the machinery you need at a price that makes sense for your business. Sign up for an account and buy today!