STEP 1 OF 4 · FREE TRUCKING TOOL
Calculate cost per mile, break-even RPM, loaded-mile revenue, all-mile impact and profit before accepting or quoting a load.
Cost, break-even and profit check
Maintenance, tires, tolls, repairs, permits
Insurance, driver pay, dispatch, overhead
NEXT STEP · STEP 2 OF 4
Fuel can change the real RPM. Add the surcharge before moving to accessorials.
Rate per mile is the revenue earned for each mile on a trucking load. Loaded RPM shows what the customer is paying for loaded miles. All-mile RPM includes deadhead and gives a more honest view of the trip economics.
A load can look profitable on loaded miles but become weak after empty miles, fuel, maintenance, driver pay and fixed costs are included.
Fuel price and MPG usually drive the biggest variable cost.
Tires, repairs, oil, wear and equipment cost should not be ignored.
Insurance, truck payment, driver pay, dispatch and overhead affect the trip.
Empty miles create cost without direct revenue, so all-mile RPM matters.
It is the minimum rate needed to cover all trip costs with zero profit.
Use both. Loaded miles show customer rate. Total miles reveal the true effect of deadhead and operating cost.
High RPM can still fail if deadhead, fuel, tolls, waiting time or fixed costs are too high.
Calculate total cost first, then add your target profit margin. For deeper quote logic, use the Freight Quote Risk Score tool.