What is the average cost to operate a truck per mile in 2026?

According to ATRI’s 2025 Analysis of the Operational Costs of Trucking, the average cost to operate a truck in 2024 was $2.26 per mile across all carrier types. Non-fuel costs continued rising into early 2025, with ATRI recording a 3.6 percent increase in that category in 2024 alone.

Is fuel still the biggest single cost in running a fleet?

No, driver compensation is actually the largest combined cost category. Driver wages came in at $0.798 per mile in 2024 and driver benefits added another $0.197 per mile, totaling nearly $1.00 per mile. Fuel cost $0.481 per mile in 2024, making it the second-largest individual line item.

What are the actual financial consequences of an HOS violation?

Motor carriers face maximum civil penalties of up to $19,246 per HOS violation under the FMCSA civil penalty schedule, adjusted annually for inflation under 49 CFR Appendix B to Part 386. Drivers face individual maximum penalties of up to $4,812.

How do I check whether my ELD device is still on the FMCSA approved list?

Go directly to the FMCSA registered ELD list and search for your device by name or model. 79 devices have been removed since January 2025, with the most recent batch of 12 removed on May 20, 2026.

Category: Blog

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