Understanding Rate Per Mile

    Why RPM Alone Can Mislead

    A $2,000 load over 1,000 loaded miles shows $2.00 RPM. Looks fine — but what about deadhead, fuel, tolls, and time?

    🚫 Hidden Costs RPM Ignores

    • Deadhead miles: Fuel + wear with zero revenue.
    • Fuel cost: Your biggest variable expense shifts daily.
    • Tolls & fees: Direct hit to your net (not in RPM).
    • Maintenance: Tires, oil, repairs — miles still cost.
    • Downtime: Dwell at shippers kills revenue/day.

    📉 Two Real Scenarios

    • High RPM, weak profit: $2.50 RPM but 180 deadhead + pricey fuel ⇒ net drops fast.
    • Modest RPM, strong net: $2.10 RPM with tight routing + planned reload ⇒ better profit/day.
    Best metric: Track profit per all-mile (loaded + deadhead). It tells the truth.

    🧭 Dispatch smarter, not harder

    • Balance RPM with all-miles cost and time.
    • Plan reloads to cut deadhead.
    • Log every fee and fuel purchase — know your true CPM.
    • Build broker/shipper relationships for steadier lanes.

    Want better profit — not just higher RPM?

    Our U.S.-based team plans lanes, reduces deadhead, and negotiates accessorials — so your profit per mile goes up.

    Free Dispatch Consultation Truck Dispatch Services