Trucking Costs in Connecticut

Connecticut's diesel tax structure includes a gross receipts tax that makes it one of the most expensive fueling states. The state charges a petroleum gross earnings tax (currently equivalent to approximately 42-45 cents per gallon for diesel) in addition to a flat 17.5-cent per gallon excise tax. Combined with the 24.4-cent federal tax, total tax exceeds 80 cents per gallon. Diesel prices in Connecticut average $4.00-$4.50 per gallon in early 2026 — consistently among the top 5 most expensive states. A truck running 10,000 miles monthly at 6.5 MPG faces fuel costs of $6,200-$6,900. The Highway Use Fee adds another $0.026/mi for trucks over 26,000 lbs, translating to $260 per 10,000 miles. IFTA filing must account for Connecticut's complex tax structure.

While Connecticut's major highways (I-95, I-91, I-84) do not have traditional tolls, the Highway Use Fee effectively functions as a distance-based toll for trucks. The $0.026/mile fee adds $2,600-$3,100 annually for a truck running 100,000-120,000 miles. Connecticut requires quarterly reporting and payment to the Department of Revenue Services. Additionally, carriers frequently traversing the state must account for tolls on adjacent New York (Governor Mario M. Cuomo Bridge, George Washington Bridge) and Massachusetts (Mass Turnpike) infrastructure. Fuel taxes are not creditable against the Highway Use Fee. The cumulative toll and fee burden of operating through the Northeast corridor (CT, NY, NJ, MA) can add $0.08-$0.15/mi to operating costs compared to toll-free southeastern states.

Annual insurance for a Connecticut owner-operator typically totals $14,000-$24,000 — among the highest nationally. Commercial vehicle registration ranges from $400-$900 through CT DMV. The HVUT adds $550 annually. Connecticut's progressive income tax ranges from 3% to 6.99%, taking a significant bite from earnings compared to no-tax states. The state has high property taxes, which affect living costs and business property. Connecticut's overall cost of living is 10-20% above the national average. UCR is $69-$73. These combined costs make Connecticut one of the most expensive states to base a trucking operation, though the dense Northeast freight market offers strong rates to compensate.

A Connecticut-based owner-operator with a paid-off truck can expect costs of $1.70-$2.15 per mile. With truck payments, costs increase to $1.95-$2.40 per mile. Breakdown: fuel $0.62-$0.70/mi, Highway Use Fee $0.026/mi, insurance $0.12-$0.18/mi, maintenance $0.16-$0.22/mi, tires $0.03-$0.05/mi, truck payment $0.15-$0.25/mi, permits $0.03-$0.04/mi, overhead $0.06-$0.09/mi. Connecticut dry van rates average $2.65/mi and flatbed $3.10/mi — among the highest nationally, reflecting the cost structure. Northeast corridor freight is consistent year-round. Last-mile deliveries in the dense Hartford-New Haven-Bridgeport corridor pay premium rates. Owner-operators grossing $220,000-$270,000 can net $50,000-$75,000 after Connecticut's higher expenses.