How it works
Loaded rate per mile compares freight revenue with miles traveled while loaded. It deliberately excludes empty movement so that the denominator is unambiguous.
The formula
Keep currency, units and time periods consistent. Percentage inputs use percentage points (enter 5 for 5%). Results are rounded only for display; tiny nonzero values may use scientific notation. Undefined ratios are shown as unavailable.
$1,800 over 600 loaded miles gives $3.00/mi. A $3.25/mi target requires $1,950 revenue, leaving a $150 gap (7.69% of required revenue).
Calculation method
Choose linehaul only or include approved accessorials. The comparison output retains linehaul RPM, while the target calculation follows your selected revenue basis. Percentage gap is measured against required target revenue.
Interpretation
RPM describes revenue, not earnings. Deadhead, fuel and time can change the economics of a load with a high loaded RPM. Use All-In RPM and Load Profit to inspect those effects.
Limitations
Use your own carrier costs, fee agreements and approved revenue. These are planning estimates, not booking recommendations or guarantees. Inputs stay in your browser; no trip or settlement figures are saved.
Using this in a dispatch decision
Use loaded RPM to describe the quoted load, then open All-In RPM before comparing it with another offer. A higher loaded RPM can be offset by a longer drive to pickup. Enter approved accessorials only when they belong in the comparison.
Method and reference sources
Method and content checked 2026-09-20. These sources provide background, not endorsement or professional certification. The formula and limitations above define this calculator.
- ATRI — Trucking researchOperating-cost research context. No industry-average cost or contractual compensation rate is automatically used.
Frequently asked questions
Does loaded RPM include the drive to pickup?
Loaded RPM uses loaded miles. For a full movement including the drive to pickup and other empty travel, compare the All-In RPM calculation.
What is a worked example for Rate Per Mile?
$1,800 over 600 loaded miles gives $3.00/mi. A $3.25/mi target requires $1,950 revenue, leaving a $150 gap (7.69% of required revenue).