Own truck vs freight company — which costs less?

You're shipping enough that the freight bills are adding up. Maybe it's time to buy your own truck instead of paying freight companies? The math isn't as simple as it looks, especially with Vermont's rural routes and seasonal weather affecting delivery schedules.

Most businesses think owning a truck saves money once shipping costs hit a certain point. The real breakeven depends on frequency, not just volume. You need consistent shipments on the same routes at least three times per week to justify the fixed costs.

Owning a truck means driver wages, insurance, maintenance, fuel, and downtime costs. In Vermont, winter weather can sideline trucks for days. Insurance runs higher for commercial vehicles. Maintenance costs spike when trucks sit unused. Most businesses don't hit true savings until they ship 50+ times per month on regular routes.

Track your current shipping for three months. Count frequency by route, not just total shipments. If you're shipping the same Vermont routes three times weekly, owning might work. If shipments are scattered or seasonal, backhaul logistics through Gateway Distribution costs less. You pay only for space on trucks already making the trip.

With the right choice, shipping becomes predictable. You either build reliable routes with your own truck or get consistent rates without the overhead. Either way, you know your real shipping costs and can plan accordingly.

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