1 Yard Concrete Mixer for Sale: Complete Guide to Portable and Towable 1 Cubic Yard Concrete Mixers

A 1 yard concrete mixer for sale is a high-capacity mixing solution for contractors, rental companies, concrete suppliers, municipalities, landscapers, hardscape installers, and property owners who need substantially more production than a conventional portable drum mixer can provide. A true one-yard mixer is designed to handle up to approximately one cubic yard of concrete per full-capacity batch when operated according to its manufacturer's specifications.

One cubic yard equals 27 cubic feet, making these machines considerably larger than the common 6- or 9-cubic-foot mixers found on many construction sites. Instead of producing many small batches, a 1 yard concrete mixer allows a crew to prepare a substantial quantity of concrete directly at or near the project.

One-yard mixers are commonly built as towable trailer units, although self-loading and other specialized configurations are also available. They can be particularly valuable for contractors working in locations where ready-mix trucks have difficulty reaching the pour.

What Is a 1 Yard Concrete Mixer?

A 1 yard concrete mixer is a commercial machine capable of mixing approximately one cubic yard of concrete at its rated capacity.

These machines should not be confused with smaller mixers advertised according to total drum volume.

With any mixer, the manufacturer's rated mixing capacity is the important specification. The machine should never be loaded beyond its rated capacity.

One cubic yard is equivalent to:

• 27 cubic feet

• Approximately 0.765 cubic meter

• 46,656 cubic inches

The actual weight of one cubic yard of concrete varies by mix design, but normal-weight concrete can weigh roughly 4,000 pounds per cubic yard.

That explains why a true one-yard mixing trailer requires a substantially heavier frame, axle system, drivetrain, and braking system than a small portable mixer.

1 Yard Towable Concrete Mixer

The 1 yard towable concrete mixer is one of the most common configurations in this category.

The mixer drum is mounted on a heavy-duty trailer chassis that can be transported to the jobsite using a properly rated tow vehicle.

A professional towable system may include:

• Tandem axles

• Heavy-duty frame

• Hydraulic drum drive

• Gasoline engine

• Trailer brakes

• Adjustable tongue

• Road lighting

• Discharge chute

• Heavy-duty tires

For example, Cart-Away's current one-yard mixing trailer is rated at a 7,000-pound GVWR and uses tandem 3,500-pound axles, a 13-horsepower motor, hydraulic drive, four-wheel braking, and a structural steel trailer frame.

How Much Does a 1 Yard Concrete Mixer Cost?

The price of a new one-yard concrete mixer can vary considerably according to the manufacturer, engine, trailer construction, options, water system, and equipment package.

As a current market reference, one manufacturer lists a new 1-yard portable concrete mixing trailer at approximately $26,500, with additional options available.

Used equipment can cost considerably less depending on:

• Age

• Operating hours

• Drum condition

• Engine

• Hydraulic system

• Axles

• Tires

• Brakes

• Overall condition

When comparing prices, make sure you are looking at a true one-cubic-yard rated mixer rather than a smaller drum mixer.

Why Buy a 1 Yard Concrete Mixer?

The biggest reason to purchase a one-yard mixer is production.

A contractor who regularly mixes substantial quantities of concrete may spend excessive time producing dozens of small batches with a conventional mixer.

A larger machine can reduce:

• Loading cycles

• Mixing cycles

• Labor

• Waiting time

• Equipment repositioning

It can also provide more control over when concrete is produced.

This can be particularly useful for projects requiring smaller quantities than a traditional ready-mix delivery but more concrete than a small mixer can efficiently produce.

1 Yard Concrete Mixer for Contractors

A one-yard mixer can be useful for contractors performing:

• Sidewalk construction

• Concrete repair

• Curbs

• Equipment pads

• Footings

• Small slabs

• Retaining walls

• Fence foundations

• Utility work

• Drainage structures

It occupies a useful position between a small jobsite mixer and a full ready-mix truck.

1 Yard Concrete Mixer for Hardscape Contractors

Hardscape companies can use a one-yard mixer for concrete work associated with:

• Paver installations

• Retaining walls

• Concrete edge restraints

• Steps

• Outdoor kitchens

• Pool decks

• Footings

• Landscape structures

Instead of repeatedly loading a small mixer, a crew can produce a larger batch and distribute it around the project.

This can improve workflow on jobs where concrete is an important supporting material but not necessarily the primary finished surface.

1 Yard Mixer for Sidewalks

Sidewalk repair is a particularly good application for portable mixing equipment.

Municipal crews and concrete contractors may need relatively small quantities at multiple locations throughout the day.

A one-yard mixer allows material to be prepared close to the repair.

This can be useful for:

• Sidewalk panels

• ADA repairs

• Utility restoration

• Curb sections

• Small pavement repairs

The machine can then be transported to another location after the work is completed.

1 Yard Mixer for Remote Jobsites

Remote construction is another strong application.

Ready-mix trucks may struggle with:

• Narrow roads

• Soft ground

• Steep access

• Residential properties

• Farms

• Mountain sites

• Large private properties

A towable mixer may provide better access when a properly rated pickup and trailer can reach the site but a full-size concrete truck cannot.

Material still needs to be supplied efficiently, so contractors must plan aggregate, cement, water, or bagged concrete handling before beginning the pour.

How Many Bags of Concrete Make One Yard?

The exact number depends on the yield printed on the bag.

As a general estimate, an 80-pound bag of premixed concrete commonly yields approximately 0.6 cubic foot.

Since one cubic yard contains 27 cubic feet:

27 ÷ 0.6 = approximately 45 bags

Therefore, approximately 45 80-pound bags may be required to produce one cubic yard, depending on the specific product and its stated yield.

Always calculate using the manufacturer's stated bag yield rather than relying only on a general estimate.

How Much Does One Yard of Concrete Weigh?

Normal-weight concrete commonly weighs approximately 145 to 150 pounds per cubic foot.

At 27 cubic feet per cubic yard, that produces approximately:

27 × 145 = 3,915 pounds

to

27 × 150 = 4,050 pounds

That means the concrete alone may weigh around two tons.

This is why trailer ratings, axles, brakes, tires, hitch capacity, and tow vehicle capacity are extremely important.

Tow Vehicle Requirements

Never select a tow vehicle simply because the trailer physically attaches to the hitch.

You must consider:

• GVWR

• Actual loaded trailer weight

• Tow vehicle rating

• Hitch rating

• Tongue weight

• Tire ratings

• Brake requirements

• Payload

• Local transportation regulations

For example, Cart-Away currently lists its one-yard trailer with a 7,000-pound GVWR, approximately 2,440-pound empty weight, tandem 3,500-pound axles, and four-wheel brakes.

A mixer loaded with concrete is dramatically heavier than the same trailer when empty.

1 Yard Mixer with Gas Engine

Gas-powered mixers are popular because they do not depend on jobsite electricity.

Advantages include:

• Remote operation

• Fast refueling

• Good portability

• No generator required

• Independent hydraulic operation

Commercial machines may use gasoline engines to drive hydraulic pumps, which then operate the mixing drum.

Engine maintenance typically includes:

• Oil changes

• Air-filter service

• Spark-plug inspection

• Fuel-system maintenance

• Cooling-system cleaning

Follow the engine manufacturer's service schedule.

Hydraulic Concrete Mixer

Hydraulic drive is well suited to large portable mixers.

A hydraulic system can provide:

• Strong drum torque

• Controlled rotation

• Reliable commercial operation

• Smooth discharge

Important hydraulic components include:

• Pump

• Motor

• Reservoir

• Hoses

• Fittings

• Control valves

Inspect the hydraulic system regularly for leaks and damaged hoses.

Never search for a pressurized hydraulic leak using your hands.

Self-Loading 1 Yard Concrete Mixer

Another option is a compact self-loading concrete mixer.

Unlike a basic mixing trailer, a self-loading machine can combine material loading, mixing, transportation, and discharge functions.

Some compact self-loading machines provide approximately one cubic meter of concrete output, which is somewhat larger than one cubic yard.

These machines are useful for:

• Remote construction

• Road projects

• Agricultural work

• Utility construction

• Site development

They are generally more complex and expensive than a basic towable mixer.

1 Yard Concrete Mixer vs. Ready-Mix Truck

One-Yard Mixer

Advantages:

• Mix concrete when needed

• Useful for small pours

• Better access

• Reusable equipment

• Good for remote locations

Disadvantages:

• Materials must be loaded

• Requires labor

• Requires cleaning

• Lower production than ready-mix trucks

Ready-Mix Truck

Advantages:

• High production

• Consistent batch-plant mixing

• Excellent for large pours

• Less onsite mixing labor

Disadvantages:

• Minimum-order charges may apply

• Access may be difficult

• Delivery timing matters

For large slabs, a ready-mix truck is usually much more efficient.

1 Yard Mixer vs. Small Portable Mixer

A typical portable mixer might produce only a few cubic feet per batch.

A one-yard machine can produce substantially more.

This means fewer cycles when producing:

• 1 yard

• 2 yards

• 3 yards

• Multiple small pours

However, the one-yard machine requires considerably more space, transportation capacity, material handling, and cleaning.

For occasional fence posts, it would be excessive.

For repeated commercial concrete work, it can significantly improve production.

Mixing Time

Mixing time should follow the machine manufacturer and applicable concrete specifications.

As a useful industry reference, construction specifications commonly require approximately 1.5 minutes of mixing for batches around one cubic yard, although actual procedures depend on the mixer and concrete specification.

Do not shorten mixing time simply to increase production.

Poorly mixed concrete can produce inconsistent:

• Cement distribution

• Aggregate distribution

• Water content

• Workability

Consistency matters more than rushing each cycle.

Discharging a One-Yard Mixer

The discharge system should allow the operator to place concrete into:

• Wheelbarrows

• Buggies

• Forms

• Chutes

• Placement equipment

Optional discharge chutes can make placement easier.

Before purchasing, consider how the concrete will actually move from the mixer to the forms.

A high-production mixer provides little benefit if the crew cannot transport concrete away from it quickly enough.

New 1 Yard Concrete Mixer for Sale

Buying new provides:

• Warranty

• Known machine history

• Current components

• Dealer or manufacturer support

• Financing possibilities

• Reduced initial repair risk

New equipment is usually preferable for contractors who rely on the mixer for revenue-producing work.

Used 1 Yard Concrete Mixer for Sale

A used mixer may provide significant savings.

Before purchasing, inspect:

• Drum

• Mixing paddles

• Engine

• Hydraulic pump

• Hydraulic motor

• Hoses

• Gearbox

• Frame

• Axles

• Brakes

• Tires

• Hitch

• Electrical system

Test the mixer under operation whenever possible.

Concrete Mixer Drum Inspection

Look inside the drum for:

• Hardened concrete

• Excessive wear

• Cracks

• Damaged paddles

• Poor previous repairs

Concrete buildup reduces capacity and can create imbalance during rotation.

A heavily damaged drum may require expensive repair or replacement.

Trailer Inspection

Inspect the trailer just as carefully as the mixer.

Check:

• Frame welds

• Coupler

• Safety chains

• Axles

• Wheel bearings

• Tires

• Brakes

• Lights

• Suspension

Remember that a loaded one-yard mixer may carry several thousand pounds of concrete.

Trailer condition is therefore a major safety concern.

Cleaning a 1 Yard Concrete Mixer

The mixer should be cleaned immediately after use.

Concrete that hardens inside the drum can:

• Reduce capacity

• Damage paddles

• Increase weight

• Create imbalance

• Increase drivetrain load

Professional mixers may offer optional wash systems to make cleanup easier.

Never allow unused concrete to remain in the drum overnight.

Frequently Asked Questions About 1 Yard Concrete Mixers for Sale

What is a 1 yard concrete mixer?

It is a commercial mixer rated to produce approximately one cubic yard, or 27 cubic feet, of concrete at full rated capacity.

How much does a 1 yard concrete mixer cost?

Pricing varies considerably. One current new one-yard portable mixing trailer is listed at approximately $26,500 before certain optional upgrades.

How many cubic feet are in one yard of concrete?

One cubic yard equals exactly 27 cubic feet.

How much does one yard of concrete weigh?

Normal-weight concrete commonly weighs approximately 3,900 to 4,050 pounds per cubic yard depending on the mix.

How many 80-pound bags make one yard?

If an 80-pound bag yields approximately 0.6 cubic foot, roughly 45 bags are required. Always verify the specific product's stated yield.

Can a 1 yard concrete mixer be towed?

Yes. Many one-yard mixers are specifically designed as towable trailers.

Can I tow a loaded one-yard mixer with a pickup?

Potentially, but only when the truck, hitch, trailer, brakes, tires, and complete combination are properly rated for the actual loaded weight.

How heavy is a one-yard mixing trailer?

It varies. One current commercial one-yard model has an empty weight around 2,440 pounds, while another manufacturer lists approximately 2,800 pounds dry.

What engine does a 1 yard mixer use?

Engine configurations vary. Commercial portable mixers commonly use gasoline engines connected to hydraulic mixing systems.

Are one-yard mixers hydraulic?

Many commercial one-yard mixing trailers use hydraulic motors to rotate the drum.

Can you mix bagged concrete in a 1 yard mixer?

Yes, provided the concrete and loading method meet the mixer manufacturer's requirements.

Is a one-yard mixer good for sidewalks?

Yes. Sidewalk installation and repair are strong applications because the mixer can produce substantial batches close to the work area.

Is a one-yard mixer good for hardscape work?

Yes. It can be used for retaining walls, edge restraints, steps, footings, outdoor kitchens, and other concrete components of hardscape projects.

Can I pour a driveway with a 1 yard mixer?

Yes, but calculate total concrete volume first. Large driveways may require enough batches that ready-mix delivery becomes considerably more efficient.

Can a one-yard mixer replace a ready-mix truck?

For smaller and remote projects, it can reduce dependence on ready-mix delivery. For large continuous pours, a ready-mix truck generally provides much greater production.

What is the difference between a 1 yard and 1.75 yard mixer?

A 1.75-yard machine offers 75% more nominal mixing capacity per batch, but it also requires a heavier trailer and running gear.

Should I buy a new or used 1 yard mixer?

New equipment provides warranty and known condition. Used equipment can reduce purchase cost but should be inspected carefully for drum, hydraulic, engine, gearbox, axle, and brake wear.

What should I check before buying a used mixer?

Inspect the drum, paddles, engine, hydraulics, gearbox, frame, axles, wheel bearings, brakes, tires, coupler, lights, and service history.

What is the biggest advantage of a 1 yard concrete mixer?

The biggest advantage is high-capacity onsite production without requiring a full-size ready-mix truck for every pour. A contractor can mix concrete closer to where it is needed while producing far more per batch than a traditional portable jobsite mixer.