Worked example
Use 10,000 monthly miles, $3.80 diesel, 7 MPG, $0.15 maintenance, $0.04 tires, $250 tolls, $2,200 truck payment, $850 trailer payment, $1,800 insurance, $740 other fixed costs and a 15% target operating margin.
| Result | Calculated value |
|---|---|
| Fuel per mile | $0.54 |
| Variable cost per mile | $0.76 |
| Fixed cost per mile | $0.56 |
| True cost per mile | $1.32 |
These are fictional defaults for explaining the calculation, not a price or outcome claim.
How the calculation works
Fuel price divided by MPG establishes fuel cost per mile. Fixed costs are allocated over all miles, including deadhead. The target rate is a planning output, not a market-rate promise.
Read the related Serman Tools guide for definitions, limits and another worked example.
Workbook
The free calculator handles one scenario in your browser. Owner Operator Profit Workbook keeps the related model in a downloadable workbook.
Frequently asked questions
Should deadhead miles be included?
Yes. Use all miles when allocating fuel, variable and fixed cost; excluding deadhead understates cost per mile.
Does the target rate guarantee profit?
No. It is a planning result based on entered utilization and costs, which can change materially.
Is this a freight-rate forecast?
No. It evaluates entered revenue and cost assumptions; it does not predict available rates or load-board demand.
Should fixed costs be allocated across all miles?
Yes. Use loaded and deadhead miles that match the same month or planning period.
Are taxes included?
No. Results are before tax unless you deliberately include a tax-related cost in an appropriate input.
Can the result guarantee a profitable load?
No. Fuel use, delays, maintenance, claims and actual miles can differ from the plan.