Should I handle shipping myself or hire a freight company?
Honest math from Gateway Distribution, backhaul logistics in Maine, ME.
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 isn't clear when you factor in everything that comes with owning a truck in Maine.
Own trucks make sense if you ship the same route 3+ times per week consistently. Most businesses hit the break-even point around 50+ shipments per month. Factor in driver wages, insurance, maintenance, fuel, and downtime when your truck needs repairs.
A new truck runs $150,000-200,000. Add $80,000-120,000 annually for a driver, plus insurance, maintenance, and licensing. Empty return trips kill your profit margin. If your routes change or shipping volume drops, you're stuck with fixed costs.
Most Maine businesses save money with freight companies until they hit consistent high-volume shipping. Backhaul logistics cuts costs further by sharing truck space with other shippers on the same route. Gateway Distribution handles the scheduling, insurance, and logistics while you focus on your business.
You get predictable shipping costs without the headaches of truck ownership. No driver management, no maintenance surprises, no empty trucks eating your profits. Your freight moves reliably while your cash stays in your business.
Other things people in Maine 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 Maine and the area around it.