How much does dedicated trucking cost vs regular freight?
Real numbers and hidden costs from Gateway Distribution, manufacturer logistics partnerships in Michigan, MI.
You're paying thousands for freight every month in Michigan. Dedicated trucking sounds expensive upfront, but you wonder if booking trucks one at a time costs more in the long run. The math isn't obvious when you factor in delays, damage, and staff time.
Dedicated trucking means you pay for guaranteed truck capacity whether you use it or not. Regular freight means you book trucks as needed and compete for space with other shippers. Both have real costs beyond the shipping rate.
Dedicated contracts typically cost 10-15% more per shipment than spot freight rates. But regular freight includes hidden costs like detention fees, rush charges, and damage claims. Most Michigan manufacturers with 20+ shipments monthly spend 2-3 hours per week just booking trucks and tracking loads.
Compare your total monthly freight spend to a dedicated quote. Include staff time at $30 per hour, plus any expedite fees or damage costs from the last six months. Gateway Distribution can run these numbers for your specific shipping patterns between Michigan and your key markets.
With dedicated trucking, you know exactly what freight costs each month. No surprise rate spikes during peak season. No scrambling for trucks when I-94 or I-75 gets backed up during Michigan's construction season.
Other things people in Michigan ask
consistent monthly freight shipping
Set up a dedicated trucking contract. You get the same drivers and trucks on your schedule. Gateway Distribution builds custom routes around your shipping calendar so you never compete for truck space.
freight contract cost vs spot rates
Multi-year freight contracts typically cost 10-15% less than spot rates and lock in pricing. Calculate your annual shipping volume first. If you ship consistently, dedicated capacity contracts protect you from rate spikes and guarantee truck availability.
dedicated trucking services
Dedicated trucking gives you the same driver and equipment on a schedule you set. It costs more than spot freight but less than owning trucks. Gateway Distribution offers dedicated services for businesses with regular shipping needs.
buy trucks vs hire trucking company
Calculate the total cost of ownership. Include truck payments, insurance, maintenance, driver wages, and DOT compliance. Most companies save money outsourcing until they ship 40+ loads per month consistently.
should I sign freight contract
Multi-year contracts work if you have consistent shipping volume and want rate protection. Look for contracts with volume adjustments and service level guarantees. Avoid contracts without clear performance standards or exit clauses.
Ready to talk?
Gateway Distribution handles manufacturer partnerships in Michigan and the area around it.