Dry Van Trucking Rates Per Mile
Understanding enclosed trailer freight pricing
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| Scenario | Low Range | High Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Short haul (under 200 miles) | $950 total | $1,400 total | Per-mile rates vary widely on short runs; $700 minimum |
| Regional (200-500 miles) | $3.40/mile | $6.35/mile | Fixed costs spread over fewer miles |
| Mid-range (500-700 miles) | $2.40/mile | $4.15/mile | Varies most with lane direction |
| Long haul (700+ miles) | $2.20/mile | $3.20/mile | Lowest per-mile rates |
What Affects Your Cost?
Distance / Short-Haul Premium
High ImpactShorter hauls cost more per mile because loading, unloading and the drive to the pickup are fixed costs. In October 2026 our dry van quotes ran about $3.40-$6.35/mile at 200-500 miles and $2.20-$3.20/mile past 700 miles; under 200 miles loads ran about $950-$1,400 in total (the minimum is $700).
Lane Direction & Market
High ImpactThe direction you ship matters as much as the distance. Headhaul lanes (into high-demand markets) cost more than backhaul lanes (outbound from those markets where carriers need return loads). High-volume corridors between major hubs like Atlanta, Dallas, Chicago, and LA typically have the most competitive rates.
Load Weight
Medium ImpactDry vans can haul up to 45,000 lbs. Heavier loads don't typically cost more unless approaching weight limits. Light but bulky freight may be priced on space rather than weight.
Extra Stops
Medium ImpactAdditional pickup or delivery stops add fees: $175 for the first extra stop, $275 for second, $375 for third, $400 each beyond that.
Equipment Requirements
Medium ImpactStandard dry van is base rate. Load bars add a flat $175. Team drivers for expedited service add about $0.58/mile plus $575 with our fee included, about $3,350-$4,350 for a 1,000-mile team run at October 2026 rates.
Lead Time
Low ImpactBooking 3-5 days ahead typically gets better rates than same-day or next-day requests. Expedited shipments command premium pricing.
Example Pricing Scenarios
40,000 lbs, Los Angeles to Dallas (1,400 miles)
30,000 lbs, Chicago to Indianapolis (180 miles)
35,000 lbs, Atlanta to Miami (660 miles)
38,000 lbs, Denver to Phoenix (600 miles) with 1 extra stop