If you are looking for a concrete mixer truck for your project, one of the first questions you will ask is: what is the capacity of a concrete mixer truck and which size should I choose? The drum capacity is the most important factor when selecting this equipment — it determines how much concrete you can transport per trip and, ultimately, the efficiency and profitability of your operation. In this guide, we explain the standard capacities available, their recommended applications, and how to choose the best option for your business.

If you are looking for a concrete mixer truck for your project, one of the first questions you will ask is: what is the capacity of a concrete mixer truck and which size should I choose? The drum capacity is the most important factor when selecting this equipment — it determines how much concrete you can transport per trip and, ultimately, the efficiency and profitability of your operation. In this guide, we explain the standard capacities available, their recommended applications, and how to choose the best option for your business.

1. Standard Concrete Mixer Truck Capacities

Concrete mixer trucks are manufactured with different drum capacities to suit the needs of each project. The most common capacities on the market are 7m³, 8m³, and 10m³. Below is a detailed comparison of each.

Capacity	Usable Volume	Empty Weight	Loaded Weight	Recommended Use
7 m³	9.2 cu yd	11–13 tons	23–26 tons	Small projects and tight access
8 m³	10.5 cu yd	12–15 tons	25–30 tons	General construction standard
10 m³	13.1 cu yd	14–17 tons	28–35 tons	Large infrastructure projects

It is important to note that the nominal drum capacity is not the same as the usable load capacity. Generally, the drum is filled to 60–70% of its total volume to allow proper mixing during transport.

2. 7m³ Concrete Mixer Truck: Ideal for Urban Projects

The 7m³ concrete mixer truck is the most compact option in the range. It is designed for small to medium-scale projects where access is limited and axle load restrictions are a concern.

Key Applications

• Single-family home construction and low-rise buildings
• Urban developments with narrow streets and weight restrictions
• Renovation and expansion projects in city centers
• Light infrastructure work such as sidewalks and curbs

Advantages

• Lower overall weight, ideal for roads with load limits
• Better maneuverability in tight spaces
• Lower fuel consumption per trip
• Lower purchase price for both new and used units

3. 8m³ Concrete Mixer Truck: The Market Standard

The 8m³ concrete mixer truck is by far the most popular and versatile capacity on the market. Models like the Zoomlion HOWO 8m³ and CIMC HOWO 8m³ are the most popular among contractors worldwide.

Key Applications

• Commercial and mid-rise residential construction
• Foundation slabs and reinforced concrete structures
• Municipal infrastructure projects (bridges, drainage systems)
• Industrial facilities and warehouse construction

Advantages

• Optimal balance between load capacity and maneuverability
• High availability of spare parts and technical service
• Excellent cost per cubic meter transported
• Strong resale value in the used equipment market

4. 10m³ Concrete Mixer Truck: For High-Volume Projects

When your project requires large volumes of concrete continuously, the 10m³ concrete mixer truck is the most efficient choice. It is designed to maximize productivity on large-scale works.

Key Applications

• Major infrastructure: dams, tunnels, highways
• Precast concrete plants
• Mining operations and large industrial projects
• Large foundation slabs for corporate buildings

Advantages

• Significantly reduces the number of trips required
• Lower logistics cost per cubic meter delivered
• Ideal for projects with constant concrete demand
• Higher profitability in high-volume operations

5. How to Choose the Right Capacity: Expert Advice

With over 15 years of experience exporting construction machinery to more than 30 countries, Hunan Iron Giant Technology Co., Ltd. has advised hundreds of contractors on choosing the right equipment. Headquartered in Changsha, the capital of construction machinery in China, our team includes former engineers from Sany Heavy Industries.

Our recommendation: For most contractors, the 8m³ concrete mixer truck offers the best balance of capacity, cost, and versatility. However, if you primarily work on urban projects with limited access, the 7m³ may be more cost-effective in the long run. For large infrastructure projects, the 10m³ maximizes operational efficiency.

2026 market insight: We are seeing growing demand for 8m³ concrete mixer trucks with Euro V compliant engines, driven by stricter environmental regulations in emerging markets across Latin America and Africa.

"Integrity, professionalism, and service are the core values of our company. We believe quality wins trust — every piece of equipment we deliver reflects this commitment."

— Iron Giant Team, Changsha, China

Clients from Mexico and Africa have visited our facility in Changsha to inspect equipment firsthand. Every machine undergoes a rigorous 20-point pre-shipment inspection, and we maintain a stock of over 100 units available for immediate delivery.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: How many cubic meters does a standard concrete mixer truck hold?

The most common standard concrete mixer truck has a capacity of 8 cubic meters (10.5 cubic yards). However, 7m³ versions are available for smaller projects, and 10m³ versions for large infrastructure works.

Q2: What is the difference between nominal capacity and usable capacity?

The nominal drum capacity refers to the total drum volume, but the usable load capacity is approximately 60–70% of that value. This is because the drum needs space for the concrete to mix properly during transport.

Q3: What size concrete mixer truck do I need for a 100m³ slab?

For a 100m³ slab, you would need approximately 13 trips with an 8m³ truck, or 10 trips with a 10m³ truck. The choice depends on your project timeline, available site space, and transport budget.

Q4: How does capacity affect the price of a concrete mixer truck?

The price increases proportionally with capacity. A new 7m³ concrete mixer truck costs between $70,000 and $120,000 USD; an 8m³ between $80,000 and $150,000 USD; and a 10m³ between $100,000 and $180,000 USD. Reconditioned units from Iron Giant cost 35–45% of the new price.

6. Summary: Which Concrete Mixer Truck Capacity Should You Choose?

Choosing the right capacity comes down to three main factors:

• Small and urban projects → 7m³: lower cost, better access
• General and commercial construction → 8m³: the most versatile standard with strong resale value
• Large infrastructure works → 10m³: maximum efficiency per cubic meter

 

Need help choosing the right concrete mixer truck for your project? Iron Giant has over 100 units in stock, including popular models from Zoomlion HOWO, CIMC HOWO, XCMG SHACMAN, and SANY in 7m³, 8m³, and 10m³ capacities. Our team of experienced engineers can help you find the best solution for your operational needs and budget.

Contact Iron Giant today: WhatsApp: +86 19572932608 | Email: manager@hunan-iron-giant.com | Web: www.hunan-iron-giant.com