Own truck vs freight company: Which costs less?
The real math on shipping costs from Gateway Distribution in Nebraska, NE.
You're shipping enough in Nebraska that the freight bills are adding up. You're wondering if buying your own truck would save money compared to hiring freight companies. The numbers aren't adding up clearly either way.
Most businesses think owning a truck is cheaper because they only see the freight company's invoice. But your own truck means driver wages, commercial insurance, maintenance, fuel, and truck payments. Plus downtime when the truck breaks or the driver calls in sick.
Owning makes sense if you ship the same route at least three times per week, every week. Factor in $75,000-$90,000 per year for a driver, $8,000-$12,000 for insurance, and $15,000-$25,000 for maintenance. Most Nebraska businesses break even around 50+ shipments per month on consistent routes.
Call Gateway Distribution to run your actual numbers. We handle backhaul logistics across Nebraska, including routes along I-80 and US-30 between Omaha and Lincoln. Backhaul means your freight rides on trucks already making the trip, so you pay less per mile than a dedicated truck.
With the right freight partner, you get predictable costs without the headaches of truck ownership. No maintenance surprises, no driver management, and no empty miles eating your profits.
Other things people in Nebraska 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 Nebraska and the area around it.