Is Virginia a good state for trucking?

Trucking Costs in Virginia

Operating cost analysis for Virginia — toll-heavy but with strong freight markets.

Total Cost Per Mile Analysis

Virginia's diesel tax is 27.6 cents per gallon (plus 7.6-cent regional tax in NoVA/Hampton Roads) plus 24.4 federal for approximately 52-60 cents total depending on region. Diesel prices average $3.60-$3.95/gallon. An owner-operator with a paid-off truck expects $1.50-$1.95/mi. With payments: $1.75-$2.20. Virginia income tax is 2-5.75%. Tolls add $0.03-$0.12/mi depending on routes. Insurance runs $10,000-$18,000. Contributory negligence helps moderate liability costs. Vehicle personal property tax adds $200-$800/year. Dry van rates average $2.45/mi, flatbed $2.90/mi. Port of Virginia and NoVA government freight pay premiums. Owner-operators grossing $200,000-$260,000 can net $50,000-$80,000.

FAQs — Virginia Trucking Costs

Good, with caveats. Strong freight markets (Port of Virginia, Northern Virginia government sector), moderate costs, and contributory negligence keeping insurance reasonable. Tolls are the main negative — $10,000-$20,000 annually for NoVA carriers. Western Virginia (I-81 corridor) is more affordable. Vehicle personal property tax adds unique costs.