The four numbers
Yards (with the 10% overage), slump (4" for slabs unless specified), PSI (3,000 for patios, 3,500–4,000 for driveways in freeze climates), and fiber/rebar preference. The dispatcher asks for exactly these; knowing them marks you as someone whose pour will go smoothly.
The scheduling conversation
Book 3–7 days out, ask for morning delivery (cooler temps, full day for finishing), and confirm whether YOU finish or they do. Ask about the short-load fee directly — quoting it back earns respect and accurate invoices. Weather: they will reschedule for rain; you should too before they suggest it.
Pour-day choreography
Forms braced, reinforcement down, screed rails set, tools staged (screed, darby, edger, broom, curing compound), one friend per 2 yards. The truck includes ~15 minutes of unload; every minute after costs by the quarter hour. The pros make it look relaxed because everything was ready before the drum turned.