Intermodal Earnings in Minnesota
How much can intermodal owner-operators earn in Minnesota (MN)? Estimated rates, gross and net monthly income, cost of living impact, fuel costs, and top lanes in the Midwest region.
Intermodal Earnings Overview — Minnesota
Rate Per Mile
$2.33
+11.0% vs national
Est. Gross Monthly
$19,805
+11.0% vs national
Est. Net Monthly
$11,473
After COL-adjusted expenses
Minnesota vs National Average
| Metric | Minnesota | National Avg | Diff |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rate/Mile | $2.33 | $2.10 | +11.0% |
| Gross Monthly | $19,805 | $17,850 | +11.0% |
| Est. Net Monthly | $11,473 | $11,603 | -1.1% |
| Cost of Living | 108 (Above Average) | 100 (Baseline) | +8% |
| Fuel Tax | 28.5c/gal | ~32c/gal | Below avg |
Cost of Living Impact in Minnesota
Minnesota has a roughly average cost of living (index 108). Intermodal rates of $2.33/mile translate well to real purchasing power. Operating expenses are in line with national norms, making MN a balanced market for intermodal owner-operators.
Estimated Monthly Expense Breakdown
| Category | Est. Monthly | % of Gross |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel | $3,422 | 17.3% |
| Insurance | $792 | 4.0% |
| Truck Payment / Lease | $1,800 | 9.1% |
| Maintenance & Repairs | $792 | 4.0% |
| Tires | $300 | 1.5% |
| Permits & Licenses | $162 | 0.8% |
| Food & Living | $864 | 4.4% |
| Phone / Software | $200 | 1.0% |
| Total Expenses | $8,332 | 42.1% |
| Net Take-Home | $11,473 | 57.9% |
Expenses adjusted for Minnesota's cost of living index (108). Actual costs vary by individual circumstances.
Fuel Cost Impact in Minnesota
Minnesota's fuel tax of 28.5 cents/gallon is below the national average (~32c), giving intermodal carriers a fuel cost advantage. At 5-6 MPG, this saves approximately $53/month compared to higher-tax states. Combined with moderate freight volume, MN offers solid margin potential.
Top Intermodal Lanes from Minnesota
Intermodal Earnings — Minnesota vs Nearby States
| State | Rate/Mile | Gross/Mo | Fuel Tax |
|---|---|---|---|
| Minnesota (MN) | $2.33 | $19,805 | 28.5c |
| Illinois (IL) | $2.41 | $20,485 | 46.7c |
| Indiana (IN) | $2.38 | $20,230 | 33.0c |
| Iowa (IA) | $2.18 | $18,530 | 30.0c |
| Kansas (KS) | $2.17 | $18,445 | 24.0c |
Maximize Your Intermodal Earnings in Minnesota
A good dispatch service works on the three levers that move your per-mile rate: load negotiation, reduced deadhead, and detention pay recovery.
Intermodal Earnings in Minnesota — FAQ
Want to hit the top of these intermodal numbers in Minnesota?
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