Should I handle shipping myself or hire a freight company?
Clear cost breakdown and decision framework from Gateway Distribution, backhaul logistics in Wisconsin, WI.
You're shipping enough that the costs are adding up. The math between owning your own truck versus using freight companies isn't clear. Wisconsin businesses face this choice when their shipping volume grows but they're not sure which option saves money long-term.
Own trucks make sense if you ship the same route three or more times per week consistently. Factor in driver wages, insurance, maintenance, and downtime when calculating real costs. Most Wisconsin businesses underestimate the hidden expenses of truck ownership.
A company truck costs $8,000-$12,000 per month including driver salary, insurance, fuel, and maintenance. Freight companies charge per shipment but include all operating costs. You break even around 50 shipments per month on consistent routes like Milwaukee to Chicago or Madison to Twin Cities.
Calculate your current monthly shipping spend and frequency first. If you ship less than 50 times monthly or use multiple routes, freight companies save money. Gateway Distribution specializes in backhaul logistics, finding space on trucks already making trips across Wisconsin, which cuts your costs further.
Once you choose the right option, your shipping becomes predictable and profitable. You either build equity in your own fleet or get reliable service without the headaches of truck ownership.
Other things people in Wisconsin 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 Wisconsin and the area around it.