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Complete dry van owner-operator guide for Colorado (CO) — estimated market rates, top freight lanes, key industries, and regulations affecting dry van carriers in the Mountain West region.
Rate Per Mile
$2.78
+13.5% vs national avg
Est. Gross Monthly
$23,630
Est. Net Monthly
$15,360
After ~35% expenses
| Metric | Colorado | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rate/Mile | $2.78 | $2.45 | +13.5% |
| Fuel Tax | 22.0c/gal | ~32c/gal | Below avg |
| Freight Volume | moderate | moderate | - |
Mountain West dry van operations face unique challenges from long distances between freight hubs and high deadhead percentages. Denver and Salt Lake City are the primary load origins, with Phoenix adding significant volume in the south. Carriers who can secure round-trip freight between these hubs perform well, but one-way loads into rural areas often require repositioning. The I-70 and I-80 corridors are critical arteries.
Lanes are based on the Mountain West region where Colorado is located. Actual lane availability varies by season and market conditions.
Colorado's major shippers including Amazon DEN2/DEN3 and Coors Brewing (Golden) generate consistent dry van freight. The state's moderate freight volume and 7/10 owner-operator friendliness score make it a strong market for dry van carriers.
Denver, CO
Key hub on I-25 corridor
Colorado Springs, CO
Key hub on I-25 corridor
Aurora, CO
Key hub on I-25 corridor
Fort Collins, CO
Key hub on I-25 corridor
Pueblo, CO
Key hub on I-25 corridor
Fuel tax in Colorado: 22.0 cents/gallon. E-470 toll road around Denver; Northwest Parkway. I-70 mountain passes close frequently; chain law enforced; blizzards common.
Connect with top-rated dispatch services that specialize in dry van freight across Colorado. Compare rates, read reviews, and find the right partner.