Should I handle shipping myself or hire a freight company?
Real cost breakdown from Gateway Distribution, backhaul logistics in Maryland, MD.
Your shipping costs keep climbing and you're wondering if buying your own truck makes sense. The math gets complicated when you factor in everything beyond the truck payment. Maryland businesses face this decision when they hit steady shipping volume but aren't sure where the break-even point actually sits.
Most businesses underestimate the true cost of owning trucks. Beyond the vehicle payment, you need commercial insurance, maintenance, repairs, fuel, driver wages, and backup plans for breakdowns. A truck sitting in the shop still costs money but ships nothing.
Owning trucks typically makes financial sense if you ship the same routes three or more times per week consistently. Factor in $80,000-120,000 per year per truck when you include everything. Most Maryland businesses save money using freight companies until they hit 50-plus shipments monthly.
Calculate your current annual shipping spend and compare it to ownership costs. Include driver time off, vehicle downtime, and insurance increases. If the numbers are close, freight companies usually win because they absorb the risk. Gateway Distribution offers backhaul logistics that cuts your costs by sharing truck space with other shipments heading the same direction.
With the right freight partner, you get predictable costs and no surprise repairs. Your cash stays in your business instead of tied up in trucks and you avoid the headaches of fleet management.
Other things people in Maryland 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 Maryland and the area around it.