Can I start a trucking company with one truck?

Yes, the owner-operator model is how most trucking companies begin, and it remains the most common entry point into the industry. You will need your own MC authority from FMCSA ($300 filing fee, 3-6 weeks processing), a DOT number, insurance, and either a purchased or leased truck. Realistically, plan on $10,000-$30,000 to get rolling with a used truck, all permits, and enough working capital to survive until your first loads pay out. Many owner-operators start by running loads through brokers and load boards while building direct shipper relationships over time.

How much does trucking insurance cost?

Trucking insurance is one of the highest costs in the industry, especially for new carriers. Expect to pay $8,000-$15,000 per year for primary liability alone in your first year of authority, plus $1,000-$3,000 for cargo insurance and $2,000-$6,000 for physical damage coverage. After two years of clean operating history with no claims, your rates can drop 20-30% as you become more attractive to underwriters. Shopping through brokers who specialize in trucking insurance (not general commercial agents) is critical — the difference between the cheapest and most expensive quote can be $5,000+ for the same coverage.

Should I lease or buy my first truck?

Buying a quality used truck outright ($15,000-$40,000 for a truck with 400K-600K miles) is generally the safest path because it eliminates monthly payments while you build your business. Lease-purchase agreements from carriers and dealers are common but come with significant pitfalls — many lock you into above-market payments, charge high interest, and include walk-away clauses that leave you with nothing if you miss payments. If you do finance, seek a traditional commercial truck loan from a bank or credit union at 6-10% interest rather than a dealer lease-purchase. The sweet spot for used trucks is 3-5 years old with under 500K miles from a reputable brand like Freightliner, Kenworth, or Peterbilt.

The two dominant load boards are DAT and Truckstop.com, and most new carriers start by booking loads through these platforms at $40-$170/month for a subscription. Freight brokers are another major source — they connect you with shippers for a cut (typically 15-25% of the rate), which is worth it when you are building your network. As you gain experience and a solid safety record, focus on building direct relationships with shippers, as direct freight pays 15-30% more than brokered loads. Attending industry events, joining trucking associations like OOIDA, and simply calling on local manufacturers and distributors can help you land consistent, higher-paying direct contracts.

What's a realistic income for an owner-operator?

Most owner-operators gross $150,000-$250,000 per year in revenue and net $50,000-$100,000 after all expenses including fuel, insurance, truck payments, maintenance, and permits. Your net income depends heavily on your per-mile rate (typically $1.50-$3.00/mile depending on freight type and lane), how many miles you run per year (100,000-130,000 is typical), and how well you control expenses. The biggest variables are fuel costs (30-40% of gross revenue), insurance, and whether you own your truck outright or have a payment. Running dedicated lanes with consistent freight tends to yield better income than spot market loads, though it takes time to establish those relationships.

Home / Trucking Company Startup Costs

How Much Does It Cost to Start a Trucking Company?

$10,000 – $200,000

Starting a trucking company can cost anywhere from $10,000 for a solo owner-operator with a used truck to $200,000+ for a small fleet operation with new equipment. The biggest cost drivers are whether you buy new or used trucks, your fleet size, insurance premiums (which are notoriously high for new carriers), and the permits and authority needed to operate legally. Your freight type also matters — refrigerated and specialized hauling require more expensive equipment than standard dry van loads.

Last updated Feb 2026 · Based on FMCSA registration and authority fee schedules (2025), American Trucking Associations industry data (2024-2025), Used truck marketplace pricing (Truck Paper, Ritchie Bros)

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Where This Data Comes From

FMCSA registration and authority fee schedules (2025)
American Trucking Associations industry data (2024-2025)
Used truck marketplace pricing (Truck Paper, Ritchie Bros)
Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association cost surveys

All figures are estimates based on publicly available data and industry benchmarks. Actual costs vary by location, timing, and business decisions.

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