Should I handle shipping myself or hire a freight company?
Real cost breakdown for Tennessee businesses from Gateway Distribution's backhaul logistics team.
You're shipping enough that the costs are adding up. You're wondering if buying your own truck makes sense or if you should stick with freight companies. The math isn't clear when you factor in Tennessee's I-40 and I-75 corridors.
The break-even point depends on how often you ship the same routes. Own trucks make sense if you're running the same path three or more times per week consistently. Less than that, and you're paying for a truck that sits idle most days.
Factor in driver wages, commercial insurance, maintenance, and downtime costs. Most Tennessee businesses save money with freight companies until they hit 50-plus shipments per month. A used truck runs $80,000-$120,000 plus $15,000-$20,000 yearly in insurance and maintenance.
Track your shipping patterns for three months before deciding. If your routes vary or volumes fluctuate seasonally, backhaul logistics offers a middle ground. Gateway Distribution can ride your freight home on trucks already making the trip, cutting costs without the truck ownership headache.
You'll know within 90 days if your shipping patterns justify a truck purchase. Most businesses find they save money and stress by partnering with experienced freight companies for consistent, predictable shipping costs.
Other things people in Tennessee 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 Tennessee and the area around it.