Working in metric (m, m², m³)
UK ready-mix is sold in cubic metres (m³). To convert imperial to metric: 1 cubic yard = 0.7646 m³, so a US "1 yard" delivery is just under 1 m³. Footings are typically 600 × 1000 mm (W × D) — multiply length × width × depth in metres for total m³. Slabs are 100–150 mm thick (residential) or 150–200 mm (driveways). Always specify aggregate size: 20 mm for general concrete, 10 mm for tight pours around rebar.
VAT and pricing conventions
Builders' merchants typically quote trade customers ex-VAT and retail customers inc-VAT. Trade accounts give 10–25% off list price. Add 20% VAT to convert ex-VAT to inc-VAT (multiply by 1.20); divide by 1.20 to strip VAT. Some merchants also offer "scheme prices" for repeat trade customers — worth asking on jobs over 5 m³.
Regional variation across the UK
London and the South-East are 15–25% pricier than Yorkshire, the Midlands, or the North-East. Scotland and Northern Ireland sit between, closer to UK average. Rural delivery beyond 15 miles from the nearest plant adds £20–£60 per delivery. The cheapest UK ready-mix prices are typically found in the Midlands (Coventry, Derby, Leicester) where multiple major plants compete.
Common UK project sizes
| Project | Dimensions | Result |
|---|---|---|
| Garden shed base (3 × 2 m × 100 mm) | 0.6 m³ | £60–£90 mix + £80 part-load |
| Patio (5 × 4 m × 100 mm) | 2 m³ | £200–£300 mix |
| Driveway (10 × 4 m × 150 mm) | 6 m³ | £600–£900 mix |
| Garage slab (6 × 6 m × 150 mm) | 5.4 m³ | £540–£810 mix |
| Strip footing (10 m × 600 mm × 1 m) | 6 m³ | £600–£900 mix |