9 Ways to Cut Costs in Dry Van Trucking

The dry van trucking sector is navigating one of its most challenging periods in recent years. The industry’s average cost of operating a truck in 2024 was $2.260 per mile, while the truckload sector experienced an average operating margin of negative 2.3 percent. With 61 percent of carriers and third-party logistics providers naming cost reduction as a top priority, the need for strategic cost management has never been more critical.

For dry van carriers and owner-operators working to stay profitable in this tight market, cutting operational costs while maintaining service quality is essential. Here are proven strategies to reduce expenses and improve your bottom line.

1. Maximize Fuel Efficiency: Your Biggest Opportunity for Savings

It’s no secret that fuel continues to be one of trucking’s largest expenses, with fuel costs accounting for up to 40 percent of operating costs for trucking companies. Even small improvements in fuel economy can add up to substantial annual savings.

Driver behavior modifications

Your driving habits directly impact fuel consumption. Every mile traveled over 55 MPH equals a 0.1 mile-per-gallon drop in fuel economy. Consider this practical example: A driver hauling a load 1,000 miles at 60 MPH getting six MPG would spend approximately $667 in fuel at $4 per gallon. By reducing speed to 55 MPH and increasing efficiency to 6.5 MPG, that same trip costs only $615—a $52 savings. For long haulers traveling 100,000 miles annually, slowing down five MPH can save over $5,000 per year.

Here are some other fuel-saving best practices to try:

• Anticipate traffic flow to minimize sudden braking and acceleration
• Use cruise control on highways to maintain consistent speed
• Shift gears smoothly and avoid excessive engine revving
• Minimize idling. One hour of idling burns about a gallon of fuel

Vehicle maintenance and specifications

Proper maintenance is critical for fuel efficiency. A truck running with all tires underinflated by just ten psi experiences a 0.5 to 1 percent increase in fuel consumption. Implementing automatic tire inflation systems can help maintain optimal pressure levels.

Some additional maintenance-focused strategies include:

• Adhering to manufacturer-recommended maintenance schedules for oil changes and filter replacements
• Keeping air filters clean to ensure optimal engine performance
• Using synthetic lubricants to reduce friction in the engine and drivetrain
• Installing aluminum wheels, which can reduce fuel consumption by 3 percent or more when combined with low rolling-resistant tires

Aerodynamic improvements

Over 50 percent of the available energy in any big rig goes toward overcoming aerodynamic drag. Investing in aerodynamic upgrades such as side skirts, trailer tails, and aerodynamic mirrors can significantly reduce drag and improve fuel economy over time.

Find fuel-efficient loads: Use the Truckstop Dry Van Load Board to identify opportunities on efficient routes that minimize deadhead miles and maximize profitability.

2. Eliminate Deadhead Miles

Deadhead miles—miles driven without cargo—are among the biggest profit killers in trucking. Every empty mile means wasted fuel and lost revenue. Reducing deadheads significantly impacts your cost per mile.

Strategic load planning

• Book return loads in advance: Don’t wait until after delivery to find your next load. Pre-planning ensures cargo in both directions
• Focus on busy freight lanes: Regional demand pockets and certain freight lanes consistently have higher demand for dry van shipping, making backhaul loads easier to secure
• Leverage technology: Modern load boards and dispatch services can help identify backhaul opportunities along your route
• Maximize loaded miles: The Truckstop Dry Van Load Board provides access to thousands of loads with advanced filtering options to help you find profitable backhauls and minimize empty miles.

3. Optimize Route Planning and Reduce Delays

Inefficient routing wastes both time and fuel. Strategic route planning can reduce mileage, avoid traffic congestion, and minimize fuel consumption.

Technology-enabled route optimization

Use GPS and route planning tools that consider:

• Real-time traffic conditions
• Road elevations and terrain
• Weather patterns
• Construction zones and delays

Being diverted and idling at weigh stations and toll booths wastes time and fuel. Services like Prepass allow drivers to bypass weight stations and roll through toll stations at highway speeds, saving both time and fuel.

Smart routing solutions: Route mapping is a standard feature in the Truckstop Dry Van Load Board to help you plan efficient routes and avoid costly delays.

4. Control Insurance and Administrative Costs

After a 12.5 percent spike in truck insurance premiums in 2023, insurance rose an additional three percent in 2024, reaching a new record high. While insurance costs continue rising, there are strategies to manage these expenses.

Insurance cost management

• Shop multiple carriers annually to ensure competitive rates
• Maintain a clean safety record and invest in driver training programs
• Consider increasing deductibles if your cash reserves allow
• Bundle insurance policies for volume discounts
• Install safety technology like dash cams that may help you qualify for premium reductions

Boost administrative efficiency

Streamline back-office operations to reduce overhead:

• Use digital tools for paperwork and compliance documentation
• Automate invoicing and payment processes
• Consider factoring services for improved cash flow without the administrative burden of collections

Streamline payments: Denim by Truckstop provides quick access to cash and reduces administrative overhead.

5. Strategic Equipment Management

Equipment costs, including truck and trailer lease or purchase payments, increased by 3.8 percent in 2024. Making smart decisions about equipment acquisition and maintenance can control these expenses.

Extend equipment life cycles

Many fleets are extending trade cycles amid elevated truck prices and tariff uncertainty, maintaining a cautious stance toward equipment investment. Focus on:

• Preventive maintenance to extend vehicle lifespan
• Regular inspections to catch issues before they become major repairs
• Keeping detailed maintenance records to maximize resale value
• Balancing repair costs against replacement timing

Maintenance cost control

Repair and maintenance expenses declined from 2023 to 2024, but staying proactive is essential. Schedule regular maintenance during downtime to avoid roadside breakdowns, which are far more expensive and disruptive.

Truck maintenance resource: Download our free preventative maintenance guide now.

6. Diversify Your Freight Mix

Relying on a single type of shipment can be risky. When demand drops in one sector, your income suffers. Smart carriers maintain flexibility by hauling different types of cargo within the dry van sector.

Market diversification benefits

• Reduces vulnerability to seasonal fluctuations in specific industries
• Opens access to more load opportunities
• Allows you to pursue higher-paying loads across different sectors
• Provides stability during economic downturns in specific markets

Understanding market trends and freight demand cycles helps you identify the most profitable opportunities at any given time.

Get access to diverse freight: The Truckstop Dry Van Load Board connects you with shippers and brokers across multiple industries, helping you maintain consistent dry van freight flow year-round.

7. Invest in Technology and Data Analytics

Modern fleet management technology delivers measurable cost savings through improved efficiency and decision-making.

Technology solutions that reduce costs

• Telematics systems: Monitor driver behavior, fuel consumption, and vehicle health in real-time
• Fleet management software: Use a TMS to track maintenance schedules, compliance requirements, and operational metrics
• Load optimization tools: Maximize revenue per mile through intelligent load selection
• Fuel management systems: Advanced fuel management systems allow real-time tracking to detect issues accurately and improve efficiency

Technology investments may require upfront capital, but the long-term savings through improved operational efficiency typically deliver strong returns.

8. Negotiate Better Rates and Build Strong Relationships

While market conditions remain challenging, strategic negotiation can improve your revenue per mile.

Rate negotiation strategies

Truckstop.com dry van load rates average at $2.06 per mile, according to this week’s FTR Spot Market Insights. To secure better rates, try the following:

• Research industry pricing and understand your regional market
• Build relationships with trusted brokers and shippers for consistent, higher-paying work
• Highlight your safety record, on-time performance, and reliability
• Be willing to commit to volume loads in exchange for better rates
• Time your contracts strategically based on seasonal demand patterns

Build better broker connections: Use the Truckstop Dry Van Load Board to connect with thousands of freight brokers and shippers, expanding your opportunities to find better-paying loads.

9. Focus on Driver Retention and Training

Driver wages rose by just 2.4 percent in 2024. While wage pressures have moderated, driver retention remains critical for controlling costs.

The true cost of driver turnover

Recruiting, onboarding, and training new drivers is expensive. Retaining experienced drivers reduces:

• Recruitment and advertising costs
• Training time and resources
• Insurance premiums (experienced drivers typically cost less to insure)
• Accident rates and equipment damage
• Customer service issues from inexperienced drivers

Driver-focused cost management

Invest in driver training on fuel-efficient techniques, which can improve fuel efficiency by 10 percent. Create a positive work environment with competitive compensation, respect, and support to reduce costly turnover.

Positioning Yourself for Success in a Challenging Dry Van Freight Market

The dry van trucking sector continues to face headwinds, with freight volumes remaining soft and tariff-driven cost pressures weighing on margins. However, carriers and owner-operators who aggressively manage costs while providing high-quality services will be best positioned to weather current challenges and capitalize when market conditions improve.

The key to survival and success in the current freight environment is taking a comprehensive approach to cost management. Focus on the areas where you have the most control—fuel efficiency, route optimization, deadhead reduction, and equipment maintenance—while staying informed about market trends and opportunities.

Ready to cut costs and boost profitability? Explore how the Truckstop Dry Van Load Board can help you find better loads quickly, optimize routes, and streamline operations.