A recent survey of owner-operators highlights why many accept “cheap freight” despite razor-thin margins. Here’s what drivers are saying—and why understanding your true cost-per-mile is critical.

Geography Drives Low Rates

Nearly 80% of respondents cite geographic strategy as their main reason for taking low-paying loads:

• Hauling a low-rate freight to position in a higher-paying region

• Combining a low-paying return with a profitable outbound run

• Running cheap freight just to get home or to a better lane

Mixed Views on Cheap Freight

Operators reported a range of perspectives:

• Some track round-trip revenue, not individual segments, and can “average out” a profitable haul

• Others refuse cheap loads outright, believing it “lowers industry standards” and ruins efficiency

Hidden Costs & Knowledge Gaps

A surprising number of drivers admitted running unprofitable loads due to misunderstanding key costs—such as permits, escorts, or out-of-route expenses—and not calculating total trip expensesi

How Low Rates Persist

Perceptions vary when it comes to carriers consistently operating at a loss:

• 15% express sympathy, viewing it as survival during tough times

• 13% credit fuel efficiency—a high-mileage rig can make low rates viable

• A small group blames foreign operators, lax regulations, and unregistered carrier

Industry & Safety Concerns

Many fear that low rates compromise safety and equipment quality:

• Reports of bald tires, broken mirrors, oil leaks, and substandard maintenance

• Accusations that some fleets deliberately avoid weigh scales or regulations to cut costsi

The Right Defense: Know Your Numbers

The clearest path to avoiding cheap freight pitfalls is tracking your actual cost-per-mile, adjusting for mileage, fuel efficiency, permits, and downtime. When you know your numbers—and improve efficiency—“cheap” freight can become profitable