Should I handle shipping myself or hire a freight company?
Get clear on the real costs with backhaul logistics in Louisiana, LA.
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 math gets complicated when you factor in Louisiana's I-10 and I-20 corridors.
Most businesses think about truck payments and fuel costs. But owning a truck means driver wages, commercial insurance, maintenance, and downtime when equipment breaks. You also need consistent freight to justify the investment.
Own trucks make financial sense if you ship the same route three or more times per week consistently. Factor in $80,000 annual driver wages, $15,000 insurance, and $12,000 maintenance costs. Most businesses save money with freight companies until they hit 50 shipments per month.
Start by tracking your current shipping volume and routes for three months. If you're shipping Louisiana to Texas or along I-10 regularly, backhaul logistics can cut your costs 20-30% without truck ownership. Gateway Distribution specializes in backhaul freight, where your cargo rides on trucks already making the trip.
You'll know exactly what shipping costs each month without surprise repairs or driver issues. Your cash stays in your business instead of tied up in trucks and equipment.
Other things people in Louisiana 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 Louisiana and the area around it.