Should I buy my own truck or hire a freight company?

You're shipping enough that the costs are adding up. Maybe you're making runs along I-35 or I-80 multiple times per week. You're wondering if buying your own truck makes financial sense or if you should stick with freight companies.

The math comes down to frequency and consistency. Own trucks make sense if you ship the same route three or more times per week, every week. Factor in driver wages, commercial insurance, maintenance, fuel, and downtime when your truck breaks. Most Iowa businesses underestimate these hidden costs.

A dedicated truck typically costs $8,000-$12,000 per month when you include everything. That means you need to ship enough to justify that fixed cost. If you're shipping less than 50 loads per month, freight companies usually cost less. The break-even point depends on your routes and cargo type.

Start by tracking your current shipping for three months. Count total shipments, routes, and what you're paying now. Then get quotes for dedicated service and compare the real numbers. Gateway Distribution can run both scenarios for your Iowa routes and show you the actual costs.

Once you have the right setup, shipping becomes predictable. You'll know exactly what it costs each month. No surprises, no wondering if you made the right choice. Just reliable freight moving when you need it.

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