Should I handle shipping myself or hire a freight company?
The math on owning vs. outsourcing freight in Oregon, OR.
You're shipping enough in Oregon that costs are adding up. You're wondering if buying your own truck makes more sense than using freight companies. The math isn't clear and you need to know which option actually saves money.
The decision comes down to frequency and consistency. Own trucks make financial sense if you ship the same routes three or more times per week, every week. Otherwise, you're paying for a truck that sits idle. Factor in driver wages, insurance, maintenance, and downtime costs that many Oregon businesses underestimate.
A dedicated truck costs $8,000 to $12,000 monthly when you include everything. Driver salary, benefits, fuel, insurance, maintenance, and truck payments add up fast. You also lose money when the truck breaks down or the driver calls in sick. Most businesses need 50+ shipments per month to justify these fixed costs.
Track your shipping patterns for three months before deciding. Count weekly shipments along I-5, I-84, and other Oregon routes. If you consistently ship the same lanes multiple times weekly, buying makes sense. Otherwise, LTL freight companies like Gateway Distribution offer better economics. You pay only for space used, not idle time.
With the right choice, you control costs and focus on your core business. Own trucks work for high-frequency, predictable shipping. LTL freight works for everything else, giving you flexibility without the overhead of vehicle ownership.
Other things people in Oregon ask
LTL vs full truckload
Use LTL for shipments under 10,000 pounds or less than 12 pallets. Full truckload makes sense for 15+ pallets or when you need faster transit. LTL costs less for small shipments but takes longer due to multiple stops.
LTL shipping cost
LTL pricing depends on weight, distance, freight class, and pickup/delivery type. Residential delivery costs more than commercial. Get quotes with the exact weight, dimensions, and ZIP codes. Expect $200-800 for most LTL shipments under 5,000 pounds.
emergency freight shipping
Expedited freight gets priority handling and faster transit times. It costs 50-100% more than standard shipping but can turn a 5-day shipment into next-day delivery. Gateway Distribution offers expedited services for time-critical freight.
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.
how to choose freight company
Check their DOT safety rating and insurance coverage first. Ask for references from similar businesses. Look for real-time tracking and dedicated customer service. Make sure they handle your type of freight regularly, not as a one-off.
Ready to talk?
Gateway Distribution handles less than truckload (ltl) in Oregon and the area around it.