Dry Van Earnings in Montana
How much can dry van owner-operators earn in Montana (MT)? Estimated rates, gross and net monthly income, cost of living impact, fuel costs, and top lanes in the Mountain West region.
Dry Van Earnings Overview — Montana
Rate Per Mile
$2.68
+9.4% vs national
Est. Gross Monthly
$22,780
+9.4% vs national
Est. Net Monthly
$14,063
After COL-adjusted expenses
Montana vs National Average
| Metric | Montana | National Avg | Diff |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rate/Mile | $2.68 | $2.45 | +9.4% |
| Gross Monthly | $22,780 | $20,825 | +9.4% |
| Est. Net Monthly | $14,063 | $13,536 | +3.9% |
| Cost of Living | 100 (Average) | 100 (Baseline) | +0% |
| Fuel Tax | 27.75c/gal | ~32c/gal | Below avg |
Cost of Living Impact in Montana
Montana has a roughly average cost of living (index 100). Dry Van rates of $2.68/mile translate well to real purchasing power. Operating expenses are in line with national norms, making MT a balanced market for dry van owner-operators.
Estimated Monthly Expense Breakdown
| Category | Est. Monthly | % of Gross |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel | $3,645 | 16.0% |
| Insurance | $911 | 4.0% |
| Truck Payment / Lease | $1,800 | 7.9% |
| Maintenance & Repairs | $911 | 4.0% |
| Tires | $300 | 1.3% |
| Permits & Licenses | $150 | 0.7% |
| Food & Living | $800 | 3.5% |
| Phone / Software | $200 | 0.9% |
| Total Expenses | $8,717 | 38.3% |
| Net Take-Home | $14,063 | 61.7% |
Expenses adjusted for Montana's cost of living index (100). Actual costs vary by individual circumstances.
Fuel Cost Impact in Montana
Montana's fuel tax of 27.75 cents/gallon is below the national average (~32c), giving dry van carriers a fuel cost advantage. At 5-6 MPG, this saves approximately $64/month compared to higher-tax states. Combined with low freight volume, MT offers solid margin potential.
Top Dry Van Lanes from Montana
Dry Van Earnings — Montana vs Nearby States
| State | Rate/Mile | Gross/Mo | Fuel Tax |
|---|---|---|---|
| Montana (MT) | $2.68 | $22,780 | 27.75c |
| Colorado (CO) | $2.78 | $23,630 | 22.0c |
| Idaho (ID) | $2.67 | $22,695 | 33.0c |
| Utah (UT) | $2.76 | $23,460 | 31.9c |
| Wyoming (WY) | $2.53 | $21,505 | 24.0c |
Maximize Your Dry Van Earnings in Montana
A good dispatch service works on the three levers that move your per-mile rate: load negotiation, reduced deadhead, and detention pay recovery.
Dry Van Earnings in Montana — FAQ
Want to hit the top of these dry van numbers in Montana?
Our dispatch team looks for the high-paying dry van lanes, negotiates your rates, and works to keep you loaded.