Trucking Costs in Rhode Island
Operating cost analysis for Rhode Island — compact state with New England cost levels.
Fuel and Toll Costs
Rhode Island's diesel tax is 34.0 cents per gallon, plus the 24.4-cent federal tax for a total of 58.4 cents per gallon — above average. Diesel prices average $5.51/gallon (EIA, New England region, week of August 10, 2026). The RhodeWorks truck-only tolls add $10-$20+ per I-95 through-trip. Annual toll costs for frequent I-95 users can reach $3,000-$6,000. A truck running 8,000 miles monthly at 6.5 MPG faces fuel costs of $6,800. IFTA filing is required. Fuel stops are limited within Rhode Island's small geography — many carriers fuel in Massachusetts or Connecticut.
Total Cost Per Mile Analysis
A Rhode Island-based owner-operator with a paid-off truck can expect costs of $1.60-$2.05 per mile. With truck payments, costs increase to $1.85-$2.30. Insurance runs $11,000-$19,000. Rhode Island income tax ranges from 3.75% to 5.99%. The state has no personal property tax on vehicles (unlike neighboring CT). Overall costs mirror the New England average. Rhode Island's advantage is access to the I-95 Northeast corridor freight market. Dry van rates average $2.55/mi, flatbed $3.00/mi. The Port of Providence generates local freight. Owner-operators grossing $200,000-$250,000 can net $45,000-$70,000.