The price of ready-mix concrete in the UK is not fixed. It shifts based on what you order, how much you need, where it is going, and when you need it.
According to the Department for Business and Trade, the material price index for all construction work rose by 3% in November 2025 compared to November 2024, indicating that input costs are still increasing. Understanding these factors helps you budget accurately and avoid unexpected charges on the day of delivery.
Mix Design and Strength Requirements
The mix itself is the starting point for every quote. A higher specification means more cement, additional materials, and a higher cost per cubic metre.
Concrete Grade and Cement Content (C10–C40 and Above)
Concrete is graded by compressive strength, measured in newtons per square millimetre after 28 days of curing. The price rises with grade because higher strength demands more cement per cubic metre, and cement is the most expensive component in any mix.
- C10–C15, blinding, backfill, non-structural work.
- C20–C25, domestic foundations, footings, floor slabs.
- C30–C40+, structural elements, commercial builds, heavy loads.
Additives, Fibres, and Special Properties (Waterproof, Fast-Set, Frost-Resistant)
Standard mixes cover general requirements, but many projects need enhanced performance. Waterproofing agents, accelerators, and air-entraining admixtures for frost resistance all add to the base price. Polypropylene or steel fibres used to reduce cracking carry an additional cost depending on the dosage rate.
Volume Ordered and Load Size
The amount you order directly impacts the cost per cubic metre. Suppliers price based on truck capacity, and anything below a full load triggers extra charges.
Small Loads, Part-Load Surcharges, and Minimum Order Policies
Most ready mix trucks carry 6 to 8 cubic metres. Ordering less means the supplier still bears the same delivery and driver costs, so a part-load surcharge covers the difference.
- Part-load fees generally range from £15 to £30 per m³ short.
- Minimum orders sit around 1 to 2 m³ with most suppliers.
- Always confirm the minimum policies before placing an order.
Bulk Orders and How Volume Discounts Work
Ordering multiple loads for a larger project often qualifies for a volume discount. Suppliers benefit from repeat deliveries to the same site, reducing per-load admin and logistics costs. Discounts typically kick in from around 20 cubic metres upward.
Delivery Distance, Location, and Site Access
Where the concrete is going matters just as much as what is in the mix. Transport, local competition, and site conditions all shape the final price.
Distance from the Batching Plant and Fuel/Driver Time
Ready mix concrete has a working time of roughly 90 minutes once it leaves the plant. Longer distances mean higher fuel costs, more driver time, and a greater risk of the load timing out. Most suppliers include a standard radius in their base price and charge per mile beyond it.
Urban vs Rural Areas and Local Market Competition
Urban areas with multiple batching plants tend to offer more competitive pricing. Rural or remote locations face higher delivery costs and fewer options. Regional material prices also vary, so aggregate and cement costs differ across the UK.
Difficult Access, Pump Hire, and Extra On-Site Time
A straightforward chute pour keeps costs low, but not every site allows direct access.
- Narrow lanes or rear-garden pours often require a pump.
- Pump hire adds £150 to £500+, depending on type and duration.
- Waiting time charges apply if the truck is held beyond 30 to 40 minutes.
Timing, Lead Time, and Seasonal Demand
When you place the order and when the concrete is needed both affect the price. Planning almost always saves money.
Peak Construction Season vs Off-Peak
Spring and summer are the busiest months for UK concrete suppliers. In the year ended June 2025, 3.7 million cubic metres of ready-mixed concrete were produced in the UK, down 6% compared with the year ended June 2024.
Despite this decline in overall output, high demand during peak season still pushes prices up and reduces availability, especially for specific mixes or early morning slots. Ordering in quieter months may offer better pricing, though frost protection additives could offset part of that saving.
Short Notice Orders, Lead Times, and Cancellation Policies
- Standard lead times run 24 to 48 hours.
- Same-day orders often carry a £10 to £20 per m³ premium.
- Late cancellations may incur a full or partial load charge.
Booking early gives you the best chance of securing both availability and competitive pricing.
Final Thoughts
The cost of ready-mix concrete per m³ in the UK comes down to mix specification, order volume, delivery logistics, and timing. No single factor sets the price alone, and small decisions across each category add up quickly. Using a reliable concrete calculator before requesting a quote can also help you estimate the exact volume required and avoid overordering or shortfalls.
At Pro-Mix Concrete, we believe a good quote should never come with surprises. Every price we give is per cubic metre, fully broken down, with delivery, mix specification, and any applicable surcharges laid out before you commit. Our batching plants run a full range of grades from C10 to C40 and beyond, and our team helps you match the right mix to the job so you are never paying for more than you need.
- Dennis Broderick is the founder and owner of Pro-Mix Concrete Company, a trusted name in ready-mix concrete solutions across the UK. With over 20 years of hands-on experience in the construction and concrete industry, Dennis brings unmatched expertise, practical insights, and a commitment to quality on every project - from residential driveways to large-scale commercial developments.
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