TRUCKUNIVERSITY
CAD · km · L
04 / TRIP ECONOMICS

Break-even loaded-km rate

Cover the cost of loaded and empty running with the kilometres that earn revenue, then explore a target margin.

Your assumptions

Hypothetical starting values

Results update as you edit. All dollar amounts are CAD.

km
km
C$/km
Use a cost model covering every kilometre and excluding applicable taxes.
C$
Only costs absent from your per-km model. Use a consistent basis before applicable taxes.
%
Optional scenario: leave at 0 for break-even. Margin is a share of revenue, not a markup on cost.

Cost inputs and revenue outputs use a basis before applicable taxes. This tool does not calculate tax.

Use costs before applicable taxes. Results depend on the costs supplied and are not a market-rate recommendation or an assurance that a load is profitable.

How the math works

Total km = loaded km + empty km Modeled trip cost = total km × (cost per total km) + additional trip costs Break-even loaded-km rate = modeled trip cost / loaded km Target revenue = modeled trip cost / (1 − target margin % / 100) Target loaded-km rate = target revenue / loaded km

Keep in mind

  • Only entered costs are covered. Add missing trip-specific costs without counting any expense twice.
  • This does not establish a market price, customer acceptance or a tax-inclusive invoice total.
  • For the same cost base, a 20% margin means dividing cost by 0.80, equivalent to a 25% markup.

Precision is retained during calculation. Displayed numbers are rounded. Export for the full calculated values.

PUT THE NUMBER IN CONTEXT
Empty kilometres and the rate a loaded trip needs to earn

Your privacy choices

Choose whether this browser shares usage information with Google Analytics. Your choice does not change the calculators or articles.

Essential services

Page delivery, security and remembering this choice.

Always active

Advertising trackers are off. This preference is kept on this device for up to 180 days. Read the privacy policy.