Load Profitability Calculator
How It Works
This load profitability calculator uses established formulas to provide accurate results.
The basic rule:
- Total Miles = Loaded Miles + Deadhead Miles
- Rate Per Mile = Load Rate / Total Miles
- Total Expenses = (Total Miles × Fuel CPM) + (Total Miles × Fixed CPM) + Tolls
- Net Profit = Load Rate − Total Expenses
Results are estimates. Consult a professional for critical decisions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a good rate per mile for trucking?
A good rate per mile depends on your operating costs, but most owner-operators target $2.50-$3.50 per loaded mile as a minimum to be profitable. After accounting for deadhead miles, you want at least $2.00 per total mile. Van loads typically pay $2.00-$3.00/mile, reefer loads $2.50-$3.50/mile, and flatbed loads $2.50-$4.00/mile. Always calculate your rate based on total miles, not just loaded miles.
What should my cost per mile be as an owner-operator?
Average owner-operator total cost per mile (all-in) ranges from $1.20 to $1.85. This breaks down roughly as: fuel $0.50-$0.75, truck payment $0.20-$0.40, insurance $0.10-$0.18, maintenance $0.10-$0.20, tires $0.03-$0.05, permits/fees $0.02-$0.05, and other expenses $0.05-$0.15. Knowing your exact cost per mile is critical for deciding which loads are profitable.
Should I include deadhead miles in my rate calculation?
Absolutely. Deadhead miles are real miles that cost you fuel and wear but generate zero revenue. Always divide the load rate by total miles (loaded + deadhead) to get your true rate per mile. A $3,000 load for 1,000 loaded miles looks great at $3.00/mi, but if you deadhead 400 miles to the pickup, your real rate is only $2.14/mi. Many unprofitable loads look good until you factor in deadhead.
How do I know if a load is worth taking?
A load is worth taking if the profit per total mile exceeds your minimum threshold (most owner-operators need at least $0.50-$1.00 profit per mile). Also consider: will this load position you near a high-demand freight area for your next load? A slightly lower-paying load that positions you in a strong market can be more profitable than a higher rate that leaves you stranded in a dead zone with expensive deadhead to your next pickup.