How to Calculate Your Cost Per Mile (And Why It Matters)
If you don't know your cost per mile, you're flying blind. You might think you're profitable—but your truck is slowly bleeding money. Here's how to calculate your true operating cost.
Why Cost Per Mile Matters
Your CPM is the foundation of every business decision: load acceptance, rate negotiation, and business viability.
The Cost Per Mile Formula
CPM = Total Operating Costs / Total Miles Driven
Fixed costs (truck payment, insurance, permits) plus variable costs (fuel, maintenance, tires) plus your driver pay equals your total CPM.
Industry Benchmarks
- Dry van: $1.40 - $1.70/mile
- Reefer: $1.60 - $1.90/mile
- Flatbed: $1.50 - $1.80/mile
What Your CPM Tells You
Any load paying less than your CPM burns money. You're better off deadheading or sitting still.
Stop Guessing at Profit
Northside shows you the all-in rate per mile for every load—including deadhead. Know your margin before accepting the load.
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