Truck Driver Learning Center

[Video] Successfully Calculating Cost Per Mile

Written by Samantha Dwyer | Oct 3, 2022 9:17:05 PM

 

Not sure how to calculate your cost per mile (CPM)? Not sure how you can choose loads that will only make you profitable? By determining your fixed costs, your variable costs and your total miles driven for the month, you can calculate your cost per mile. 

I’ve been working with drivers on their settlements since 2012, and in this video I’ll explain more about how you can estimate your fixed costs, variable costs and miles driven. 

Fixed costs include: 

  • Truck payments
  • Insurance
  • Federal Highway Use Tax
  • Technology rentals
  • Accounting services

Variable costs include:

  • Maintenance account 
  • Fuel
  • Tolls 

You should calculate your CPM every month or so as the market fluctuates. Adjusting your CPM regularly will help you stay profitable. 

To get a good understanding of how the market works, check out this article about headhaul and backhaul markets.