Should I handle shipping myself or hire a freight company?
The real math on owning vs. outsourcing freight in Georgia, GA.
You're shipping enough in Georgia that the costs are adding up fast. Buying your own truck sounds tempting, but the numbers get complicated when you factor in driver wages, insurance, and maintenance. Most businesses think they'll save money with their own fleet, but the break-even point is higher than you'd expect.
Own trucks make financial sense only if you ship the same routes at least three times per week, every week. The hidden costs add up quickly: commercial insurance runs $8,000-15,000 annually per truck, driver wages average $55,000-70,000 in Georgia, plus fuel, maintenance, and downtime when trucks break. You also need backup plans when drivers call in sick or trucks need repairs.
Most businesses hit their break-even point around 50+ shipments per month on consistent routes. Below that volume, freight companies like LTL services cost less because you share truck space with other shippers. You pay only for the space you use, with no fixed costs for drivers, insurance, or maintenance.
Calculate your monthly shipping volume and route consistency first. If you're shipping sporadically or to different destinations each time, stick with freight companies. If you're moving 50+ loads monthly on the same Georgia routes, then explore buying trucks. Gateway Distribution can help you run the numbers and compare LTL costs against your current shipping expenses.
Once you choose the right approach, your shipping becomes predictable and cost-effective. You'll know exactly what each shipment costs without surprise repairs, insurance spikes, or driver shortages derailing your budget.
Other things people in Georgia ask
LTL vs full truckload
Use LTL for shipments under 10,000 pounds or less than 12 pallets. Full truckload makes sense for 15+ pallets or when you need faster transit. LTL costs less for small shipments but takes longer due to multiple stops.
LTL shipping cost
LTL pricing depends on weight, distance, freight class, and pickup/delivery type. Residential delivery costs more than commercial. Get quotes with the exact weight, dimensions, and ZIP codes. Expect $200-800 for most LTL shipments under 5,000 pounds.
emergency freight shipping
Expedited freight gets priority handling and faster transit times. It costs 50-100% more than standard shipping but can turn a 5-day shipment into next-day delivery. Gateway Distribution offers expedited services for time-critical freight.
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.
how to choose freight company
Check their DOT safety rating and insurance coverage first. Ask for references from similar businesses. Look for real-time tracking and dedicated customer service. Make sure they handle your type of freight regularly, not as a one-off.
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Gateway Distribution handles less than truckload (ltl) in Georgia and the area around it.