How to Calculate If a Load Is Profitable Before Booking

As an owner operator, every load decision either moves you closer to profit or drains your bank account. Here's how to calculate if a load is worth taking before you book it.

The Simple Formula

Profit Per Mile = (Load Rate - Total Expenses) / Total Miles

But what exactly goes into "Total Expenses"?

The Real Costs Most Truckers Forget

1. Fuel Costs

Use current diesel prices (check EIA rates)

Factor in your truck's MPG

Don't forget deadhead fuel!

2. Tolls

Toll costs vary by route, axle count, and vehicle type

A cross-country run can have $200+ in tolls

3. Maintenance Reserve

Set aside $0.10-0.15 per mile

This covers tires, repairs, and breakdowns

4. Insurance & Permits

Prorate your monthly costs per mile

5. Truck Payment

Don't work for free, factor in your daily truck payment

The Break-Even Test

Before accepting any load, ask:

"Does this load cover my daily operating costs plus make a profit?"

If yes → Take it. If no → Pass.

Use LoadBuck

LoadBuck does all this automatically:

Real-time fuel prices

Accurate toll calculations

Expense tracking

Profit per mile calculation

*Know your numbers. Keep your profits.*