Is Vermont expensive for trucking?

Trucking Costs in Vermont

Operating cost analysis for Vermont — New England costs with limited freight market.

Total Cost Per Mile Analysis

Vermont's diesel tax is 31.0 cents per gallon plus 24.4 federal for 55.4 cents total. Diesel prices average $3.85-$4.20/gallon — above average. An owner-operator with a paid-off truck expects $1.55-$1.95/mi. With payments: $1.80-$2.25. Vermont income tax ranges from 3.35% to 8.75% — among the highest nationally. Insurance runs $10,000-$17,000. Shop labor $90-$125/hr. Winter costs are significant (November-April). Vermont's limited freight market means most loads go to/from Massachusetts, New Hampshire, or New York. Dairy and heating oil are the primary intrastate freight categories. Dry van rates average $2.45/mi, flatbed $2.90/mi. Owner-operators grossing $185,000-$230,000 can net $40,000-$60,000 after Vermont's high income taxes.

FAQs — Vermont Trucking Costs

Above average. Costs run $1.55-$1.95/mi with fuel above average, high income tax (3.35-8.75%), and significant winter costs. The limited freight market means dependence on out-of-state loads. New England rates ($2.45/mi van) help but margins are tighter than low-cost states. Many VT operators base in New Hampshire for tax savings.