Everything You Need To Know About Ready Mix and Volumetric Concrete

Are You Choosing the Right One for Your Project?

When you’re managing a construction or landscaping project, whether you’re a seasoned contractor or a first-time homeowner, there’s one crucial decision that can dramatically impact your costs, your timeline, and the quality of your finish: the type of concrete you order.

You’ve probably come across the terms ‘ready-mix concrete’ and ‘volumetric concrete’, but what do they mean for your project? More importantly, what type of concrete is the best choice for your project? Choose incorrectly, and you could end up with concrete that’s gone off before you’re ready to pour, under-ordering that holds up your team, or over-ordering that hits you in the wallet and sends waste to landfill.

This isn’t just about technical definitions; it’s about making informed decisions that give you better results, more flexibility, and greater control over your build.

At this point, you might be thinking:

“Surely concrete is just concrete – does it make that much difference?”

It does. And the good news is, when you understand the key differences, you can plan better, spend smarter, and finish stronger.

This article is designed to walk you through exactly what you need to know, with practical guidance. It will help you compare ready-mix and volumetric side by side, understand how each affects your workflow and cost, and see clearly which type is a better fit for your project.

Not all concrete suppliers will support you with your project, whether commercial or domestic, but the team at Green Circle Concrete will.

Why Green Circle Concrete is Different (and Why That Matters to You)

When you’re ordering concrete, you’re not just buying a product; you’re investing in how smoothly your job will run. The supplier you choose directly impacts your budget, your build schedule, and even your peace of mind.

Here’s where Green Circle Concrete is different and why this will significantly impact your project. 

You Get the Best of Both Worlds: Volumetric and Ready-Mix

Most suppliers will offer you one or the other, ready-mix or volumetric. At Green Circle Concrete, you don’t have to choose prematurely. With a fleet of modern volumetric lorries and access to traditional ready-mix, Green Circle Concrete tailors your concrete solution to meet your specific needs.

This means:

• You can get fresh concrete mixed on-site if your job needs flexibility.
• Or, if you’re ready for a large, uninterrupted pour, you can opt for ready-mix with reliable timing and volume.
• If you’re unsure, you can speak to someone who understands both and get honest, experienced advice from one of our experts.

BSI Accredited for Your Peace of Mind

Green Circle provides BSI-accredited concrete, which means every batch meets stringent British Standards for quality and consistency. This protects you from failed tests, costly rework, and reputational headaches.

For you, it means:

• You can be confident that your mix meets the necessary standards.
• Your concrete will pass inspection the first time.
• For domestic, commercial, or civil projects, we provide materials that adhere to compliance requirements.

You Only Pay for What You Use

With volumetric supply, the mix is created on-site to your exact requirements. That means no part-load charges, no over-ordering, and no wasted concrete sitting in a skip.

This means:

• If your pour is smaller than expected, you pay less.
• If you slightly underestimated the amount needed, you can continue pouring.
• You have complete control and total clarity over your spending.

This results in no waste, no guesswork, and no issues.

Sustainable by Design

If your business or project is working towards sustainability goals, Green Circle fits your needs. Based at an award-winning, fully licensed recycling centre in South Wales, we use recycled aggregates and prioritise responsible material sourcing.

Why does that matter to you?

• You reduce your project’s carbon footprint without changing your spec.
• You align with increasingly common planning and procurement requirements.
• You support a greener supply chain without sacrificing quality or reliability.

Local Expertise, Delivered Fast

When you call Green Circle Concrete, you’re speaking to a team who knows South Wales, who understands local site access issues, and who will treat your delivery like it matters.

For your project, this means:

• Your project will benefit from quicker lead times, particularly when dealing with last-minute changes.
• Your project will benefit from drivers who understand your region and have the ability to resolve issues when necessary.
• Your project is supported by a team that values relationships and partnerships.

The Bottom Line? It’s Built Around You

Green Circle Concrete isn’t just about selling concrete; it’s about making your job easier, smoother, and more cost-effective. By combining technical quality with customer-first thinking, they help you make better decisions, avoid expensive mistakes, and finish your work with confidence.

Whether you’re a builder on a tight timeline, a landscaper needing exact quantities, or a homeowner managing your project, we adapt to you, not the other way around.

When you partner with Green Circle Concrete, you’re not just purchasing concrete but also gaining confidence, control, and a smoother path to project success.

What Is Ready-Mix Concrete?

If you’ve worked on a construction site or even just watched a home renovation, chances are you’ve seen a drum mixer lorry backing into place and pouring out grey, ready-to-use concrete. That’s ready-mix concrete, the traditional and widely used choice across the UK.

What does this mean for your project?

Ready-Mix Concrete: A Pre-Batched Product

Ready-mix concrete is manufactured in bulk at a batching plant, where all the ingredients – cement, water, aggregates, and any required additives – are precisely measured and mixed before being loaded into the drum of a mixer lorry.

Once the concrete is in transit, there’s a limited time window (usually around 90 minutes) before the mix begins to set, so careful coordination is essential.

What Does This Mean for You?

If your job is time-critical, ready-mix concrete can be a smart solution.

Here’s what you gain:

• Speed: You’ll get large volumes of consistent concrete delivered and ready to pour straight away. This is especially useful on high-volume, single-pour projects.
• Consistency: Because it’s mixed under controlled conditions at the plant, you get a uniform mix, ideal for structural work or projects requiring concrete certification.
• Less On-Site Labour: The mix arrives ready to use, eliminating the need for your team to manually handle materials or mix.

But it also comes with a few important considerations:

• You need to know exactly how much concrete you’ll need, as over-ordering leads to waste and under-ordering can cause costly delays.
• You must be fully prepared to pour the moment it arrives; site access, formwork, and labour must all be ready, or the mixture may begin to cure before you’re done.
• Delivery schedules must be tight; if you’re not ready, your mix could be compromised, and you’ll still pay for it.

Best Suited For:

• Large, uniform pours where the mix specification is fixed
• Projects where volume accuracy is known in advance
• Sites with clear access and tight timelines

Ready-mix concrete can be a highly efficient choice, but only if your project is predictable and your site is fully prepared. If flexibility, changes on the day, or unpredictable volumes are a factor, it may not be the best fit.

What Is Volumetric Concrete?

Volumetric is an increasingly popular alternative to ready-mix, especially for projects where flexibility, accuracy, and control matter. Unlike traditional concrete, it isn’t mixed until it arrives on site. Instead, a specially designed volumetric lorry transports the materials separately, producing the mix fresh as needed.

This is a completely different approach to ready-mix concrete, and for many customers, it can make a big difference to how smoothly a job runs.

How Volumetric Concrete Works

Inside a volumetric mixer, the compartments hold cement, water, sand, aggregates, and any required admixtures individually. On-site, we measure and mix these materials according to your specifications.

That means it is fresh and fully adaptable on the day.

For example:

• If you need a slightly wetter mix partway through the pour, that’s achievable.
• If you need more volume than expected, this isn’t a problem; the lorry can keep mixing until your job is done.
• If you are delayed by weather, traffic, or site access, there is no waste because nothing is mixed until you’re ready.

This level of on-site control is something ready-mix doesn’t offer.

What Does This Mean for You?

If your project involves changing conditions, tight access, or unpredictable volumes, volumetric concrete gives you the control and flexibility you need.

Here’s what you can expect:

• Only Pay for What You Use: You’re not guessing in advance or paying for surplus. You pay only for the amount poured, which means lower waste and better cost control.
• Mix Adjustability: The mix can be tailored on-site for different parts of the pour, with a higher slump for one area and firmer for another. That’s especially helpful for landscaping, foundations, or kerb laying.
• Longer On-Site Time: Because the mix isn’t curing in the drum, there’s no rush. You can work at your pace and stop and start as needed.
• Responsive to the Unexpected: Whether your team is running late or the weather changes suddenly, your concrete remains fresh and workable.

It’s a delivery method designed to work around your job, not the other way around.

Best Suited For:

• Projects where volume needs are uncertain
• Sites with access issues or delays
• Jobs requiring multiple mix types or strengths
• Customers who want to eliminate waste and only pay for what’s used

Volumetric concrete gives you flexibility without sacrificing quality. It’s ideal for small- to medium-sized pours, for reactive work, or for any job where conditions might change. If you’re looking for control, convenience, and cost efficiency, this concrete will cater to your project needs.

Ready-Mix vs. Volumetric Concrete Comparison

Which option would be more suitable for your project?

Neither option is better for every situation, but one will be better for yours. It depends on your pour size, calculation accuracy, access, timing, and control needed that day.

This comparison is designed to help you weigh the options and make the right decision.

Feature	Ready-Mix Concrete	Volumetric Concrete
Mixing Method	Pre-mixed at a batching plant and delivered in a rotating drum	Mixed on site from separate raw materials carried on the lorry
Time Sensitivity	Once loaded, the clock starts; it typically must be poured within 90 minutes	No time pressure; materials are mixed fresh as needed
Flexibility	Fixed mix; adjustments not possible on-site	Fully adjustable on-site (slump, volume, mix design)
Volume Accuracy	Must be estimated in advance; risk of over or underordering	Mixed to order: pay only for what you use
Waste	Higher potential for leftover concrete or shortfalls	Minimal waste reduces environmental and cost impact
Best Use Cases	Large, predictable pours with consistent mix requirements	Smaller, variable, or reactive projects where flexibility matters
On-Site Efficiency	Requires full preparation; no time for delays	Can accommodate delays and slower-paced pours
Cost Implications	May involve over-ordering costs or return charges	Cost-efficient for projects with uncertain volumes

What Does This Mean for You?

If your project:

• Has tight timelines
• Requires a uniform mix over a large area
• Has accurate calculations for volume

Ready-mix concrete is likely to be right for your project, as it’s fast, consistent, and ideal for large-scale pours.

If your project:

• Involves changing conditions
• Has awkward or restricted site access
• Needs flexibility on mix or volume
• Or you’re unsure how much concrete you’ll need

Volumetric concrete is the smarter choice, as it reduces waste, gives you control, and adapts to your working pace.

By matching the right concrete type to the specific needs of your job, you can avoid delays, prevent overspending, and get better outcomes from your project. If you’re still not certain which is right for your job, Green Circle Concrete has the experience to help you decide.

Which Concrete is Right for Your Project?

Choosing the right type of concrete isn’t just about technical details; it’s about understanding how each option affects your project’s budget, efficiency, and outcome.

Here’s a breakdown to help you decide with confidence.

Choose Ready-Mix Concrete If:

• You’re working on a large-scale, high-volume pour
  If your project involves pouring a substantial amount of concrete in one go, like a commercial floor slab or housing development footing, ready-mix ensures a steady, uninterrupted flow.
• You know exactly how much concrete you need
  With fixed batching at the plant, ready-mix works well when volume calculations are precise and the risk of changes is low.
• Your site is fully prepared with good access
  Ready-mix enables efficient pouring and swift progress when your work is well-planned, labour is available, and there are no anticipated delays.
• You need a consistent mix specification
  Ready-mix is ideal for structural elements where precise strength and consistency matter.

What this means: You’ll get a predictable product, quickly delivered and ready to pour, perfect when everything is lined up and ready to go.

Choose Volumetric Concrete If:

• You’re unsure about how much concrete your project will require
  Perhaps you’re filling footings with unknown ground depth, patching in awkward spaces, or covering several small sections; volumetric lets you decide on the day.
• Your job involves multiple small pours or variable mix types
  Volumetric supply allows you to adjust the mix mid-pour if you need a wetter mix for one section and a drier one for another.
• Your site is unpredictable, or access could be delayed
  Whether you’re waiting on a delivery, working around other trades, or managing a domestic site with restricted space, volumetric gives you the flexibility to work at your schedule.
• You want to avoid waste and only pay for what you use
  When budget matters, volumetric concrete helps keep costs under control by eliminating over-ordering and wasted product.

This means that you can control the mix, volume, and pace of your pour, ensuring no wastage and providing full flexibility.

Not Sure Which One to Choose?

This is the advantage of working with Green Circle Concrete.

We offer both ready-mix and volumetric options and understand the practical implications of each. We’ll take the time to advise you based on your job, your site, and your priorities. Whether you’re working on a domestic driveway, a commercial extension, or a tricky corner of groundwork, we’ll help you choose the approach that saves you time, money, and unnecessary hassle.

In summary, you don’t need to be a concrete expert; you just need to work with us.

What Makes Green Circle Concrete the Smarter Choice

When ordering concrete, the supplier of your mix often determines whether the job runs smoothly or becomes stressful. This is why it’s not just about choosing between ready-mix and volumetric concrete; it’s about choosing a supplier who genuinely understands your needs, adapts to your site conditions, and delivers with precision and reliability.

Green Circle Concrete delivers concrete with certainty, flexibility, and peace of mind, all backed by years of hands-on experience and an unwavering commitment to quality.

Here’s why so many customers across South Wales choose Green Circle Concrete time and again.

Both Ready-Mix and Volumetric Options,  Built Around You

Most suppliers will push you towards one format because that’s all they might offer. Green Circle Concrete provides both volumetric and ready-mix concrete, ensuring you never have to settle for an unsuitable option.

What does that mean for you?

• You get objective advice tailored to your job, not to the supplier’s convenience.
• If your needs change, you have the flexibility to switch approaches without having to start over.
• You can manage multiple phases of a project with different concrete requirements, all through the same trusted team.

Only Pay for What You Use

With Green Circle’s volumetric concrete supply, you only pay for what’s poured, not what’s ordered. That means:

• This eliminates the need for costly guesswork.
• There are no charges for part-loads or returns.
• There is no wastage of time, money, or materials.

It’s transparent pricing designed to protect your budget and eliminate surprises.

BSI-Accredited Quality, Every Time

Whether you’re working on a domestic build or a commercial structure, quality assurance matters. Green Circle Concrete is BSI-accredited, meaning all materials and mix processes meet rigorous British Standards.

This means:

• You can prove compliance with construction specifications.
• You reduce the risk of failed inspections or remedial work.
• You know your mix will perform exactly as expected, every time.

Environmentally Responsible, Without Compromise

Green Circle operates from a fully licensed recycling facility. Green Circle sources more of your materials sustainably, resulting in less waste ending up in landfills. If your project prioritises sustainability, whether through planning conditions or internal values, you’ll benefit directly.

• Recycled aggregates are used where appropriate.
• Waste reduction is built into every process.
• You’re supporting a more sustainable construction supply chain.

We achieve this without compromising on strength, quality, or reliability.

Reliable, Local Support You Can Count On

Based in South Wales, Green Circle’s team knows the local area, the terrain, and the practical challenges you’re likely to face, from narrow access roads to unpredictable weather conditions.

That translates into:

• This results in faster response times.
• Our drivers have extensive experience in handling complex deliveries.
• You will receive practical guidance from our expert team, who have worked on sites similar to yours.

Not only do you receive concrete, but also a supplier who genuinely cares about the success of your project.

Why It All Adds Up to Better Results for You

By combining flexible supply options, quality you can trust, and a customer-first mindset, Green Circle helps you:

• Avoid costly delays and rework.
• Reduce material waste and over-ordering.
• Meet compliance standards with confidence.
• Ensuring every stage of your project operates smoothly.

In a sector where timing, accuracy and budget control are everything, using Green Circle Concrete is a smarter way to build.

When You Have the Right Concrete Partner, the Job Runs Smoother

Concrete is often the foundation of your project, and choosing the right type of concrete and, more importantly, the right supplier, can be the difference between a job that runs like clockwork and one that’s plagued by delays, overspending, and stress.

Now you know the essential differences between ready-mix and volumetric concrete; you can see how one offers speed and consistency, while the other gives you flexibility and on-site control. 

Beyond the technical details, when your concrete supplier puts your needs first, everything else becomes easier.

This is why so many contractors, developers, and self-builders across South Wales trust Green Circle Concrete. Whether you’re ordering five cubic metres or fifty, pouring in one go or over several stages, we work with you to ensure your mix is right, your delivery is on time, and your results meet your expectations and project needs.

Green Circle’s experienced team can talk you through your options, help you weigh up the pros and cons of each, and make a recommendation that’s tailored to your site, your schedule, and your goals.

If you want concrete and confidence, choose Green Circle, which offers both solutions and more.

Get in touch today for expert advice and a delivery you can depend on.

Bridgend: 01656 668 878

Barry: 01446 742 340

Cardiff: 02920 512 340

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What types of concrete do you supply for my construction project?

At Green Circle Concrete, we offer a wide range of concrete options to suit your project requirements, from general-purpose mixes to high-strength and specialised blends. Whether you’re working on domestic foundations or a large-scale commercial project, we’ll help you choose the most suitable type of concrete needed to ensure durability, strength, and consistent quality.

2. What’s the difference between ready-mixed concrete and concrete mixed on-site?

Ready-mixed concrete is pre-mixed at our plant and transported to your site in traditional drum mixers. This is ideal for larger projects with predictable volumes. On the other hand, concrete mixed on-site is produced fresh from a volumetric truck when it arrives. This approach allows more flexibility, reduces the risk of unused concrete, and ensures you only pay for what you use, which is perfect for jobs where accuracy and timing are key.

3. How does your concrete delivery service work?

We offer reliable, on-time concrete delivery using both ready-mix drum mixers and volumetric concrete trucks. With our flexible fleet, you can choose the delivery method that best suits your project. Whether you’re managing a small domestic job or a commercial project, our experienced and friendly team will ensure your mixed concrete arrives exactly when and where it’s needed.

4. What are volumetric trucks, and why are they a smart choice for projects?

Volumetric trucks carry all raw materials separately and mix concrete on-site to your specification. This means there’s no excess concrete, no guesswork, and no additional cost for over-ordering. They’re especially useful on projects where access is difficult, volumes are uncertain, or multiple mix types are needed.

5. I’ve had issues with unused concrete in the past. Can you help avoid that?

Absolutely. Our volumetric concrete service ensures you only produce and pay for what you use. If your job changes mid-way or your measurements were slightly off, there’s no wasted material and no penalty for excess concrete. It’s a more cost-effective and environmentally friendly way to manage your pour.

6. Do you offer concrete for larger projects and commercial sites?

Yes. We regularly supply concrete services for large-scale projects, including commercial builds, industrial flooring, and public sector works. We can deliver in high volumes using ready-mixed concrete or adapt to your site’s needs with our volumetric trucks. Our concrete is BSI-accredited and suitable for structural and reinforced work.

7. How do I know which type of concrete is best for my project?

Every construction project is different, and choosing the right mix matters. Our expert team will listen to your goals, assess your site conditions, and recommend the best choice for your project, whether that’s pre-mixed concrete or something blended on-site using a volumetric truck.

8. Can you help me calculate how much I need?

Yes, you can use our free online concrete calculator to estimate the volume based on your measurements. If you’re unsure, give us a call and our friendly team will double-check everything for you. And remember, with on-site mixing, you never have to worry about under- or over-ordering.

9. What if I need different types of concrete on the same job?

No problem. Our volumetric trucks can switch mix designs mid-pour, allowing for different strengths, slumps, or admixtures without a second delivery. This flexibility helps you meet project requirements without incurring additional cost or delay.

10. Why should I choose Green Circle for my concrete services?

We offer a wide range of concrete services with a focus on reliable delivery, consistent quality, and flexible solutions. With options including traditional drum mixers and volumetric concrete trucks, we tailor our supply to your needs, whether you’re working on a small extension or a major commercial project. Our team is local, knowledgeable, and committed to supporting you so you get your job done right, first time.

Ready to Order or Need Expert Advice?

Whether you’re planning a small domestic project or managing a large-scale commercial site, choosing the right type of concrete doesn’t have to be complicated, especially when you’ve got the right team on your side.

At Green Circle Concrete, we make it easy to get exactly what you need and when you need it. Green Circle Concrete offers a wide range of concrete services, flexible delivery options, and friendly, knowledgeable support, ensuring quality, consistency, and peace of mind throughout the entire process.

Speak to our team today and get your project off to the right start.

📞 Call us on:

Bridgend: 01656 668 878

Barry: 01446 742 340

Cardiff: 02920 512 340

Or use our quick online contact form:
www.greencircleconcreteltd.co.uk/contact

There is no obligation or pressure, just straightforward support from individuals who understand your job and how to make it easier.

Get in touch today.