Need advice on getting a concrete pad poured

Assuming 4” with wire mesh, you probably looking at $3kish pending location and pre-form needs.

What kind of access does the area have?

Go 6” imo. Can’t help you on price. Ask around, and find a reputable contractor.

Access to the location. DO NOT let a loaded concrete truck drive down a 4" thick driveway. So if you need a line pump or georgia buggy that will add to the cost. Cheaper if they can tailgate.

Like others said. You will need footers if you are building on top of it. I would do 6" thick if it was me. It is about 2yds of concrete different compared to 4"; maybe $400-450 more depending on the price of mud.

I got qouted $1200 for the finish alone for a pour that needed a georgia buggy in April. Was a little smaller than your pour. Fair price. Even a small pour like this will take 3 people or 2 really good finishers. Pulling a screed, bull float, comalongs, running the buggy.

Concrete will be at least $1000, they charge a base for sending a truck; even if it is not loaded with a full 9/10 yds.

Turn key with dirt work and forms hung I would guess: $4500-6000. I would have did the dirt works and forms myself so I am guessing on the cost for that.

I'm located about an hour north of Mobile, Alabama. The plan is to put a pergola over half of it, so I can watch some games and enjoy the outside and the other half have a grill and some storage, but I'm not doing that until this summer.

Some people are saying wire mesh or rebar. Is one much better than the other?

What do I need to ask to try and avoid getting a bad concrete guy? Also, is payment done after the job or some money up front?

How long should I expect it to take from start to finish?

TIA