Trucking Costs in Indiana

Indiana's state diesel tax is 56.0 cents per gallon (one of the highest state diesel taxes in the nation, increased through infrastructure funding legislation), plus the 24.4-cent federal tax for a total of 80.4 cents per gallon. Despite the high tax rate, Indiana diesel pump prices average $3.65-$3.95 per gallon due to competitive pricing and proximity to Midwest refineries. A truck averaging 6.5 MPG running 10,000 miles monthly faces fuel costs of $5,600-$6,100. IFTA filing is required. Major fuel stops are abundant along I-65, I-70, I-69, and I-74 with competitive pricing from all major chains. The Indianapolis area offers some of the most competitive fuel pricing due to the density of truck stops serving the logistics hub.

The Indiana Toll Road (I-80/90) charges trucks $22-$40 for full crossings — carriers running east-west through northern Indiana must account for this cost. Annual toll costs for a carrier making daily crossings can reach $8,000-$10,000. Cashless tolling on I-65 adds additional costs for southbound carriers. Commercial vehicle registration ranges from $200-$475 based on gross weight. The HVUT adds $550 annually. Indiana's flat state income tax is 3.05% — lower than most states with income taxes. Most counties also levy a local income tax (1-3%), bringing effective rates to 4-6%. There is no vehicle personal property tax. Overall, Indiana's tax burden for trucking is moderate.

Indiana offers competitive truck maintenance costs. Shop labor averages $80-$115 per hour. Budget $0.13-$0.18 per mile for maintenance. The state's generally flat terrain is easy on brakes and drivetrain. Winter weather (November-March) requires cold-weather maintenance but is moderate compared to northern tier states. Tire costs run $3,000-$5,000 annually. Indiana's massive logistics infrastructure means excellent parts availability and service options, particularly in the Indianapolis metro area. Rush Truck Centers, Kenworth, Peterbilt, and Freightliner dealers are well-represented. Emergency roadside service is readily available along all major corridors due to the high truck traffic volume.

An Indiana-based owner-operator with a paid-off truck can expect costs of $1.45-$1.80 per mile. With truck payments, costs increase to $1.70-$2.10 per mile. Breakdown: fuel $0.56-$0.62/mi, tolls $0.00-$0.08/mi (depending on routes), insurance $0.08-$0.12/mi, maintenance $0.13-$0.18/mi, tires $0.03-$0.05/mi, truck payment $0.15-$0.25/mi, permits $0.02-$0.03/mi, overhead $0.05-$0.08/mi. Indiana dry van rates average $2.25/mi and flatbed $2.75/mi. The Indianapolis logistics hub provides exceptional load availability — deadhead ratios are among the lowest nationally. Automotive freight (Subaru, Honda, Toyota) offers dedicated lane opportunities. Owner-operators grossing $185,000-$230,000 can net $50,000-$75,000. Indiana's low cost of living stretches earnings further.