Crushed concrete typically costs between a few dollars and several tens of dollars per ton, depending on source quality, location, and delivery. This article breaks down the cost components and provides practical ranges to help buyers estimate a concrete recycling project budget. The main cost drivers are material quality, haul distance, and any processing or disposal fees.
| Item | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Crushed concrete material | $6 | $9 | $14 | Material grade varies; higher-quality or specialized sizes cost more |
| Delivery / hauling (per ton) | $2 | $8 | $20 | Distance-based; includes fuel and labor |
| Minimum load fee | $10 | $40 | $100 | Applied when order is small or in rural areas |
| Processing or screening (if required) | $1 | $3 | $5 | Depends on equipment and material size |
| Delivery surcharge by distance | $0 | $0.50 | $2 | Per mile charges may apply beyond a defined radius |
| Taxes / permit fees | $0 | $1 | $3 | State/local taxes and site-use fees |
Overview Of Costs
Material price and delivery are the core costs when budgeting for crushed concrete. Typical project ranges reflect both the price of the material itself and the cost to bring it to the job site. In general, a basic project may land in the low end of the range, while larger loads or restricted sites push costs higher. The following totals assume standard end-use applications such as fill or base material for pavements.
Assumptions: region, material quality, load size, and haul distance influence pricing.
Cost Breakdown
Understanding how the price adds up helps prevent surprises at the quote stage. The table below shows a typical mix of components for crushed concrete delivered to a construction site. The totals mix fixed fees with per-ton charges, so larger orders tend to dilute fixed costs.
| Columns | Materials | Labor | Equipment | Permits | Delivery / Disposal | Warranty | Overhead | Taxes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Low range | $6 | $0 | $0 | $0 | $2 | $0 | $1 | $0 |
| Average range | $9 | $0 | $1 | $0 | $8 | $0 | $3 | $1 |
| High range | $14 | $0 | $5 | $0 | $20 | $0 | $5 | $3 |
What Drives Price
Distance to the source, material quality, and load size are the main price levers. Shorter hauls typically reduce delivery charges, while larger orders spread fixed costs across more tons. Material quality, such as concrete grade and gradation, affects base price and may trigger screening or additional processing fees. Regional supply also influences pricing due to local regulations and availability.
Assumptions: standard recycled concrete, common gradation, non-urban site.
Regional Price Differences
Prices vary by region due to trucking costs and local supply chains. In the U.S., the per-ton delivered price often trends higher in rural areas where transportation is longer or less competitive. Coastal cities may see higher base material costs but benefit from closer processing facilities. A Midwestern suburb typically offers a balance of lower delivery charges and solid material availability.
Assumptions: three sample regions used for comparison.
Labor & Installation Time
Labor is typically a smaller portion of crushed concrete costs but matters for placement and compaction. If the material must be spread, leveled, or compacted, add labor hours at local rates. For quick base applications, minimal labor may be needed if the material is dumped and graded. The time factor also influences the project’s delivery window and scheduling costs.
Assumptions: typical site crew and equipment available on-site.
Additional & Hidden Costs
Hidden fees can affect the total project price unexpectedly. Potential extras include minimum load charges, site access fees, balancing fines for off-spec material, and fees for off-peak delivery. Some suppliers add loading fees for poor access or require a screening if the material arrives with fines. Budget for contingencies of 5–15 percent on large orders.
Assumptions: standard site access with occasional surcharges.
Real-World Pricing Examples
Three scenario cards illustrate typical quotes for crushed concrete. These examples show how material, delivery, and minor add-ons translate into total costs. They use moderate assumptions about location, order size, and site conditions to provide practical benchmarks for planners.
Assumptions: region, specs, labor hours.
Basic Scenario
Specs: 20 tons of 1½-inch crushed concrete, urban delivery, standard screening not required. Labor minimal for spread. Per-ton price: $9. Delivery: $6. Total before taxes and fees: $216. Assumes no minimum load fee if 20 tons is used.
Mid-Range Scenario
Specs: 50 tons of 3/4-inch crushed concrete with screening, suburban site, moderate compaction. Per-ton price: $11. Delivery: $12. Total: $650 before taxes and disposal charges. Includes screening and a small contingency for site access.
Premium Scenario
Specs: 100 tons of specialized crushed concrete with tight gradation, highway access, full compaction, and re-use on a lined base. Per-ton price: $14. Delivery: $25. Minimum load fee may be waived due to quantity. Total: $1,400 before taxes, permits, and contingency.
Assumptions: region, specs, labor hours.