Load Profitability Calculator
Should you take that load? Plug in the numbers and get an instant GO or NO-GO recommendation based on your real costs, dispatch fee, and deadhead miles.
Stop Guessing. Know Your Numbers.
Every load you accept either builds your business or bleeds it dry. This calculator breaks down the real profitability of any load — factoring in fuel, deadhead, dispatch fees, and your operating costs — so you can make confident decisions instead of gut calls. Enter your numbers below and get an instant verdict.
Load Details
Cost Inputs
0%15%
GO
This load is profitable
Net Profit / Loss
$1,657
Profit Per Mile
$2.07
Profit Per Loaded Mile
$2.55
Breakeven Load Rate
$718
Revenue Breakdown
Gross Load Rate$2,500
Dispatch Fee (7%)-$175
Revenue After Dispatch$2,325
Expense Breakdown
Fuel (800 mi / 6.5 mpg x $3.80)$468
Other Costs (800 mi x $0.25)$200
Dispatch Fee$175
Total Expenses$843
Trip Stats
Rate Per Mile
$3.13
Rate Per Loaded Mile
$3.85
Deadhead Miles
150
Deadhead %
18.8%
Frequently Asked Questions
Most experienced owner-operators aim for at least $0.20-$0.50 profit per mile after all expenses. Anything above $0.50/mile is excellent. Below $0.20/mile the margins are thin and a single unexpected expense (breakdown, ticket, detention) can wipe out your profit entirely.
Always include deadhead miles in your total miles calculation. A $3,000 load over 500 loaded miles looks great at $6.00/mile, but if you deadhead 300 miles to pick it up, your real rate is $3.75/mile over 800 total miles. This calculator factors deadhead into every metric automatically.
The 'other per-mile costs' field should cover insurance, maintenance reserves, tire wear, and any other variable expenses. A common rule of thumb is $0.20-$0.35/mile for a well-maintained truck. If your truck is older or you run heavy loads, budget closer to $0.35-$0.50/mile.
The breakeven rate is the minimum load rate (in total dollars) you need to cover all your costs — fuel, dispatch fee, insurance, maintenance, and other operating expenses — for this specific trip. Any load paying less than this number means you lose money. Always compare offers against your breakeven before accepting.