Cost Per Mile Calculator
Know your numbers. Calculate your true operating cost per mile, breakeven rate, and profit margins at different revenue levels.
Trip & Fuel Details
Monthly Fixed & Variable Expenses
Cost Per Mile
$1.23
Breakeven Rate (with 8% dispatch)
$1.34/mi
Monthly Fuel Cost
$8,088
Cost Breakdown
$12,338
Monthly
Fuel$8,088
Truck Payment$1,800
Insurance$1,200
Permits & Licensing$200
ELD / Tech$50
Maintenance$500
Tires$200
Other Expenses$300
Profit at Various RPM Levels
| Rate/Mile | Gross Revenue | After Dispatch | Net Profit | Margin |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| $2.00 | $20,000 | $18,400 | $6,062 | 30.3% |
| $2.50 | $25,000 | $23,000 | $10,662 | 42.6% |
| $3.00 | $30,000 | $27,600 | $15,262 | 50.9% |
| $3.50 | $35,000 | $32,200 | $19,862 | 56.7% |
| $4.00 | $40,000 | $36,800 | $24,462 | 61.2% |
Based on 10,000 monthly miles and 8% dispatch fee.
Estimate only. Results are based on the figures you enter and industry averages, and will differ from your actual costs. Verify with a qualified professional before making financial decisions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Most owner-operators see total costs between $1.50 and $2.20 per mile depending on their truck payment, insurance rates, and fuel economy. Newer trucks with payments tend to be on the higher end, while paid-off trucks can run under $1.50/mile.
Include all operating expenses: fuel, truck payment, insurance, maintenance, tires, permits, ELD/technology fees, dispatch fees, and any other recurring costs. The more accurate your inputs, the more useful your breakeven rate calculation will be.
Your breakeven rate is your total cost per mile divided by (1 minus your dispatch fee percentage). For example, if your cost per mile is $1.80 and your dispatch takes 8%, your breakeven rate is $1.80 / 0.92 = $1.96/mile. Any load above this rate earns you profit.
Dispatch fees are calculated on revenue rather than miles, so they are factored into the breakeven rate rather than the base cost per mile. This calculator handles both -- showing your operating CPM and the revenue rate you need to cover all costs including dispatch.