Should I buy trucks or hire a trucking company?
Cost breakdowns and honest advice from Gateway Distribution, hub-and-spoke distribution in New Mexico, NM.
Your shipping volume is growing across New Mexico, and you're weighing the costs. Buying trucks and hiring drivers sounds expensive upfront. But paying freight companies every month adds up too. You need to know which option saves money long-term.
The decision comes down to total cost of ownership versus shipping frequency. Buying trucks means truck payments, commercial insurance, maintenance, driver wages, DOT physicals, and fuel costs. Many New Mexico businesses underestimate these hidden expenses when calculating ownership costs.
Most companies break even on truck ownership around 40-50 loads per month consistently. Below that volume, outsourcing typically costs less. Above that threshold, owning makes financial sense. Insurance and maintenance costs vary across New Mexico's diverse terrain, from high-altitude mountain routes to desert highways.
Calculate your true monthly shipping volume first. Include seasonal fluctuations and growth projections. If you're shipping less than 40 loads monthly, partnering with Gateway Distribution's hub-and-spoke network often provides better rates and flexibility. You avoid the fixed costs while accessing professional drivers and maintained equipment.
Once you choose the right approach, your shipping becomes predictable and cost-effective. You can focus on growing your business instead of managing trucks, drivers, and DOT requirements.
Other things people in New Mexico ask
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.
how long does hub and spoke shipping take
Hub and spoke adds 1-2 days compared to direct shipping but costs significantly less. Your freight gets consolidated at the hub then moves on optimized routes. Good for non-urgent shipments where cost matters more than speed.
when to book freight shipping
Book LTL 1-2 days ahead for standard service. Full truckload needs 2-5 days notice depending on season. Peak seasons (harvest, back-to-school, holidays) require more lead time. Expedited services can often pick up same day.
Ready to talk?
Gateway Distribution handles hub-and-spoke distribution in New Mexico and the area around it.
