Should I handle shipping myself or hire a freight company?
Honest cost breakdown from Gateway Distribution, backhaul logistics in Indiana, IN.
You're shipping enough that the costs are adding up. You're wondering if buying your own truck makes sense or if freight companies are still the better deal. The math gets complicated when you factor in all the hidden costs of owning equipment in Indiana.
The break-even point for owning trucks depends on how often you ship the same routes. If you're not moving freight at least three times per week consistently, you're probably losing money on truck ownership. Driver wages, insurance, maintenance, and downtime eat into profits fast.
Owning makes financial sense around 50+ shipments per month on regular routes. Factor in $80,000-120,000 for a decent used truck, $15,000-25,000 annual insurance, plus driver wages starting around $55,000 in Indiana. Maintenance runs $0.15-0.20 per mile, and trucks sit idle 20-30% of the time.
Most Indiana businesses save money using freight companies until they hit consistent volume. Backhaul logistics cuts costs further because you share space on trucks already making the trip. Gateway Distribution handles the routing, insurance, and driver management while you focus on your business. Get quotes for both options before deciding.
With the right freight partner, you get reliable delivery without the headaches of truck ownership. Your shipping costs become predictable, and you avoid the risk of equipment sitting unused during slow periods.
Other things people in Indiana 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 Indiana and the area around it.