Commercial

Trucking Cost Per Mile Calculator

Calculate your true cost per mile for trucking operations. Track fixed costs, fuel, maintenance, and profitability to optimize your rates.

Quick Presets

Results

Enter your costs and revenue to see profitability

Industry Benchmarks

$1.50-1.80 — Typical total cost/mile
$0.50-0.70 — Fuel cost/mile
10-15% — Target profit margin
<15% — Good deadhead rate

How to Use

Enter all monthly fixed costs
Input variable costs per mile
Set your rate, miles, and deadhead %
Review profitability and recommendations

FAQs

What's a good cost per mile?

Most owner-operators target $1.50-1.80/mile total cost. Below $1.50 is excellent; above $2.00 may indicate inefficiencies or high fixed costs.

How do I reduce deadhead?

Use load boards to find return freight, build relationships with brokers in your delivery areas, and consider partial loads rather than running empty.

Should I include driver pay?

If you pay a driver, add their pay to fixed costs. If you're the driver, your profit is effectively your pay. Either way, ensure the numbers work.

What rate should I charge?

Your rate must exceed your cost per mile by your target profit margin. Know your costs first, then set rates that ensure profitability.

Limitations

Does not include driver wages (if separate)
Tolls and lumper fees not included
Tax implications not calculated
Assumes consistent monthly operations

Trucking Cost Per Mile Calculator

Fixed Costs (Monthly)

Variable Costs

Revenue & Miles

Quick Presets

Results

Cost per Mile Breakdown

Monthly Summary

Recommendations