Should I handle shipping myself or hire a freight company?
The math behind owning trucks vs. using freight services in Colorado, CO.
You're shipping enough that the costs are adding up. You're wondering if buying your own truck makes sense or if you should stick with freight companies. The numbers aren't clear when you factor in everything that comes with owning a truck in Colorado.
The break-even point depends on how often you ship the same routes. Own trucks make financial sense if you're running the same route three or more times per week consistently. Factor in driver wages, commercial insurance, maintenance costs, and downtime for repairs.
Most Colorado businesses underestimate the hidden costs. Driver wages average $65,000 annually. Commercial truck insurance runs $8,000-$15,000 per year. Maintenance and fuel costs add another $40,000-$60,000 annually. Winter weather along I-70 and I-25 means more wear and potential delays.
Run the numbers honestly. If you ship fewer than 50 loads per month, freight companies usually cost less. Gateway Distribution's backhaul logistics can cut your shipping costs by using trucks already making the trip. You pay for space, not an empty return trip. Get quotes for your current volume before buying equipment.
With the right freight partner, you avoid the headaches of truck ownership while keeping costs predictable. No surprise repair bills, no driver scheduling issues, and no insurance claims to manage.
Other things people in Colorado ask
why is freight so expensive
Fuel costs, driver shortages, and equipment availability drive freight pricing. Rates fluctuate seasonally and with demand. Get quotes from multiple carriers and consider longer-term contracts for rate stability during volatile periods.
freight shipping transit times
LTL typically takes 2-5 business days depending on distance. Full truckload is usually 1-3 days. Expedited can be next day. Weather, holidays, and freight class affect timing. Get a transit time estimate in writing before you book.
backhaul vs dedicated trucking
Backhaul works when you have flexibility on pickup times and want the lowest cost. Dedicated trucks cost more but give you guaranteed capacity and schedules. If your shipments are time-sensitive or high-volume, dedicated is worth the extra cost.
Ready to talk?
Gateway Distribution handles backhaul logistics in Colorado and the area around it.