Starting your own trucking company is a big move—and it can open the door to real independence and long-term success. Launching any company takes capital, but how much to start a trucking company? Before you get rolling, you’ll want to become familiar with what it’s going to take, from day-one expenses like buying a truck to monthly trucking costs like fuel and maintenance.
If you’ve been wondering about the actual cost to start a trucking company, this guide breaks it all down so you know exactly what to expect and how to prepare.
The First Big Trucking Expenses: What It Takes to Get Started
When you’re starting a trucking company, there are some upfront costs you just can’t avoid. These early expenses are what we call your trucking startup costs and they’re the foundation for everything that comes next. Getting things in place the right way from the beginning will save you time, money, and headaches down the road.
| Expense Category | Estimated Cost Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Truck Purchase (New) | $80,000 – $150,000 | Depends on make, model, and condition |
| Truck Purchase (Used) | $40,000 – $80,000 | More affordable upfront, but may require higher maintenance and repairs |
| Truck Lease (Alternative) | $1,600 – $2,500/month | Lower upfront cost; varies by terms |
| Trailer Purchase (Dry Van, Reefer, or Flatbed) | $20,000 – $55,000 | Cost depends on trailer type, condition, and specs like lift gates or insulation |
| USDOT & MC Number | $300 – $500 | Required to operate legally |
| State Permits & IRP Fees | Varies by state ($500–$3,000) | Based on state and mileage |
| Insurance (Annual) | $9,000 – $16,000 | Liability, cargo, and physical damage coverage |
| Business Registration & LLC | $150 – $500 | One-time setup fees |
| Office Setup & Software | $200 – $1,000 | Includes basic bookkeeping or dispatch tools |
| Branding (Logo/Website) | $500 – $2,000 | Optional, but helps build trust |
Note: These are rough estimates. Your exact startup costs may vary depending on location, freight type, truck value, and business goals.
Buying or Leasing a Truck
One of the first big choices you’ll make is whether to buy or lease your truck. Buying a brand-new semi-truck can run anywhere from $80,000 to $150,000, depending on the make and model. If that feels steep, a used truck could save you money, but just be ready for more maintenance along the way.
Leasing a semi-truck is another option, especially if you’re trying to keep your startup costs lower. Leasing lets you get on the road with a smaller down payment and predictable monthly payments, which can help free up cash for other parts of your business. It really comes down to what works best for your budget and long-term plans.
Permits and Paperwork
Before you can start hauling freight, you’ll need to get your legal documents squared away. That includes applying for your USDOT number and, if you plan to cross state lines, your MC number. Intrastate carriers—those who only operate within a single state—typically only need a DOT number. MC numbers are primarily required for interstate operations.
Depending on where you’ll be running, you may also need state permits or to register under the International Registration Plan (IRP).
These costs aren’t the biggest part of your trucking startup costs, but they’re essential. Trying to skip steps or rush the process could lead to delays—or even fines—down the road. This is where having a team like OTR Solutions on your side makes a big difference. We’ve helped thousands of new carriers get through this process quickly and correctly.
While your MC number is processing, there are still things you can do to keep the ball rolling. Here’s what to do while your motor carrier number bakes.
Insurance Costs
Insurance is one of the bigger monthly trucking expenses you’ll need to plan for—and you’ll need active coverage before you can even book your first load. Most new carriers spend anywhere from $9,000 to $16,000 per year. Your exact cost will depend on your driving history, the freight you haul, and how much your equipment is worth.
At the very least, you’ll need liability insurance. Most carriers also add cargo and physical damage coverage to stay fully protected. If you want to haul freight, cargo insurance will more than likely be required – typically, brokers will ask for proof of cargo insurance before you can even book a load. It might not be the most exciting part of launching your business, but it is one of the most important.
If you’re not sure where to start, we recommend working with our partners at Marquee Insurance Group. They specialize in helping new carriers find the right policies at the right price—and they’ll walk you through every step.
Getting Your Business Set Up
Beyond the truck and the paperwork, there are smaller but still important costs to think about when launching your business. You’ll need to officially register your company, maybe set up an LLC, and invest in things like bookkeeping software or basic office supplies.
If you want to build a strong first impression, a simple website or logo design can go a long way. Branding may not feel urgent when you’re focused on hauling freight, but it can help you stand out and land those early contracts.
Ongoing Trucking Costs: What It Takes to Stay on the Road
Once your business is up and running, the expenses don’t stop. Ongoing trucking costs are part of everyday operations, and managing them well is key to staying profitable. Knowing what to expect (and how to prepare for it) will help you keep your cash flow steady and your trucks moving.
| Expense Category | Estimated Cost Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel | $5,000 – $10,000+ | Varies by mileage, fuel prices, and route efficiency |
| Maintenance & Repairs | $1,000 – $4,000 | Routine maintenance + unexpected repairs |
| Insurance Premiums | $750 – $1,500 | Based on annual policy split monthly |
| Driver Pay | $4,000 – $7,000 per driver | Varies based on experience, load types, and bonuses |
| Permits, Taxes, & Tolls | $300 – $800 | Includes IFTA taxes, toll fees, and special permits |
| Office/Admin Costs | $200 – $1,000 | Phone, internet, dispatching, bookkeeping software |
Note: Costs fluctuate based on fleet size, lanes, and seasonality. Budgeting conservatively helps avoid cashflow gaps.
Fuel Costs
Fuel is one of the biggest monthly expenses for any trucking company. As of early 2025, diesel prices are averaging around $3.63 per gallon, but that number can climb depending on market changes and where you’re running. When fuel prices spike, they can eat away at your profit fast.
One way to stay ahead of this is by using a fuel card like the one from OTR Solutions. Carriers using the OTR Fuel Card save an average of $0.50 per gallon—and sometimes as much as $2.25 per gallon—at thousands of in-network stops. Planning smarter routes and reducing idle time can also go a long way in cutting fuel use and keeping costs down.
Maintenance and Repairs
Trucks take a beating on the road, so regular maintenance isn’t optional—it’s essential. Oil changes, tire checks, brake inspections, and general upkeep help prevent breakdowns that could leave you sidelined for days. Even with great maintenance, unexpected repairs happen. Setting aside part of your monthly revenue for repairs will help you avoid surprises and stay ready for whatever the road throws your way.
Paying Your Drivers
If you’re not driving solo and have drivers on payroll, their wages will be one of your bigger monthly costs. Offering fair pay, bonuses, and even simple benefits like paid time off can help you keep good drivers around. Turnover is expensive, and a happy, reliable driver is worth every penny.
Taxes, Permits, and Tolls
Keeping up with taxes like IFTA (International Fuel Tax Agreement) is part of staying compliant. These filings require detailed tracking of mileage and fuel use in each state, so staying organized from day one really matters. On top of that, toll roads and certain permits for oversize or out-of-state loads can quickly add up if you don’t factor them into your operating budget.
Back-Office Costs
While your truck makes the money, your office keeps the wheels turning. Things like phones, internet, accounting software, and fleet management tools are part of your regular trucking costs. Even if you’re running everything from home, staying organized behind the scenes is just as important as what happens on the road.
5 Ways to Keep Your Trucking Costs Under Control
Running a successful freight business isn’t just about making money—it’s also about keeping your expenses in check. Once you’ve covered those early trucking startup costs, the next step is learning how to manage your day-to-day spending so your business stays strong over time. Here are a few smart ways to help you cut down on expenses without cutting corners.
1. Get the Most Out of Every Gallon
Fuel will always be one of your biggest expenses, but there are ways to stretch it further. Keeping up with routine maintenance—like oil changes and tire checks—helps your truck run more efficiently. So does making small changes in how you drive. For example, using cruise control, avoiding long idle times, and easing up on the gas pedal can all help save fuel over the long haul.
2. Stick to a Maintenance Routine
Breakdowns don’t just cost money—they cost time and trust with your customers. Creating a regular maintenance schedule keeps your truck in good shape and helps you catch little issues before they turn into major problems. It’s an easy habit that can save you thousands down the line.
3. Review Your Insurance Often
Insurance isn’t a one-and-done deal. Rates change, and your needs might shift as your business grows. It’s a good idea to check in on your policies each year, compare quotes, and ask about discounts—especially if you’ve got a clean driving record or are running a safe, well-maintained rig.
4. Use Tech to Your Advantage
Today’s technology can do a lot of the heavy lifting for you. GPS and route optimization tools can help you avoid traffic and find more efficient paths. Fleet management software keeps track of trucking expenses, loads, and schedules. Even something as simple as using the OTR Mobile App to find the best fuel prices can make a big impact on your bottom line.
5. Keep an Eye on the Numbers
Staying on top of your finances doesn’t have to be complicated. Just make it a habit to check your income and expenses regularly, track what’s coming in and going out, and adjust your budget when needed. The more visibility you have into your numbers, the easier it is to stay profitable.
And if you’re factoring your invoices, it matters who you’re partnered with. OTR Solutions offers True Non-Recourse Factoring, which means if your customer doesn’t pay, you’re still protected. No chargebacks. No stress. That kind of peace of mind makes a big difference when every dollar counts.
Planning Your Trucking Business Budget
Before you hit the road, it’s important to have a solid plan for your money. Creating a budget might not be the most exciting part of starting a business, but it’s one of the most important. A good budget helps you stay on track, avoid surprises, and make smarter decisions as you grow.
Start by listing out your expected expenses, including:
Startup Costs:
- Truck purchase or lease
- Permits and registrations
- Insurance premiums
- Business formation (LLC, legal fees)
- Office setup and software
Monthly Operating Costs:
- Fuel
- Maintenance and repairs
- Driver wages
- Taxes and tolls
- Back-office and admin tools
Writing everything down gives you a clear view of what you’ll need to earn to keep your business running smoothly—and where you might be able to trim costs.
Looking Ahead: Forecasting Revenue and Expenses
Once you’ve got your budget in place, the next step is figuring out how much money you expect to bring in—and how that stacks up against your expenses. Think about how many loads you can realistically book, what those loads pay, and how often you’ll get paid.
At the same time, make sure you’re realistic about costs. Try to include everything you can think of—even the small stuff—so you’re not caught off guard later. This kind of forecasting helps you understand your break-even point and set goals that actually work for your business.
Getting the Funds to Get Started
Not everyone has the cash to cover everything upfront, and that’s okay. If you need help covering your trucking expenses, there are several ways to go about it. You might look into equipment financing, small business loans, or even working with a factoring company like OTR Solutions to get paid faster on your invoices.
With BOLT Instant Payments from OTR, your funds are sent right after your invoice is processed—no waiting around for hours or days. It’s a fast, reliable way to keep your cashflow moving, especially when you’re just getting started.
Having a clear business plan and budget in place can also make it easier to secure funding. Lenders and partners want to see that you’ve thought things through—and that you’ve got a strategy for success.
Ready to Start Your Trucking Business the Right Way?
Now that you know the cost to start a trucking company and what to expect when it comes to trucking startup costs, it’s time to take action. OTR Solutions is here to help you move forward—whether you need help getting your authority, finding fuel discounts, or getting paid faster with factoring. We’ve helped thousands of carriers launch and grow strong, efficient businesses. Let’s get you on the road with tools that save you time, cut costs, and keep you moving.