Should I handle shipping myself or hire a freight company?
The real math behind owning vs. outsourcing freight — Connecticut, CT.
Your shipping costs keep climbing. You're wondering if buying your own truck makes more sense than paying freight companies. The numbers aren't adding up clearly, and you need to know which option saves money long-term in Connecticut.
Most businesses hit this crossroads when they're shipping 20-40 loads per month. You see the freight bills piling up and think a company truck might be cheaper. The math depends on route consistency, not just volume.
Owning makes sense if you ship the same route 3+ times weekly with consistent loads. Factor in driver wages ($50,000-70,000 annually), commercial insurance ($8,000-15,000), maintenance, fuel, and truck payments. Most Connecticut businesses break even around 50+ shipments monthly on steady routes.
Start by tracking your current routes for three months. If you're shipping I-91 to I-95 corridors regularly with full loads, ownership might work. For mixed routes or seasonal shipping, backhaul logistics through Gateway Distribution costs less. You pay only for space used on trucks already making the trip.
With the right choice, you'll have predictable shipping costs and no surprise truck repairs. Your freight moves reliably while you focus on growing your business instead of managing drivers and maintenance schedules.
Other things people in Connecticut 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 Connecticut and the area around it.