When new drivers dream of running their own business, they often picture freedom, paychecks, and shiny trucks. What they don’t see coming are the dozens of small (and not-so-small) fees that quietly eat away at profit. These “hidden expenses” are part of the trucking business — and if you’re not ready for them, they’ll knock you flat.
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❓ 12.1 What permits do independent contractors need?
At minimum, you’ll deal with IRP (International Registration Plan) plates, IFTA (fuel tax reporting), and possibly oversize/overweight permits depending on your freight. Each state has its own rules, and some require extra credentials like trip permits when running through. The key lesson? Do your homework before crossing state lines. Ignorance isn’t an excuse if DOT stops you.
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❓12.2 What hidden expenses catch new contractors off guard?
This is where the real shock comes in. Beyond permits, here’s what piles up fast:
Accounting & bookkeeping fees (you’ll need them to stay legal)
Broker fees and factoring charges
ELD (Electronic Logging Device) subscriptions
Corporate renewal fees (LLC, INC, etc.)
Banking fees for business accounts
Plate fees if you’re running under a carrier’s authority
These aren’t optional. They’re the cost of doing business, and they can easily chew through thousands every year.
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❓12.3 How can a driver prepare financially?
Two words: budget early. Don’t wait until renewal month to wonder where the money will come from. I recommend setting aside a small portion of every settlement into a “permits/fees account.” Treat it like paying yourself a tax — because if you don’t, these bills will feel like a gut punch when they hit.
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> “The money you don’t plan for is always the money that hurts the most.”
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✅ Final Thoughts
Running your own truck is about more than fuel and miles. It’s about understanding that the government, the banks, and even your own broker will all have their hand out at some point. If you know what’s coming — and plan for it — you’ll survive. If not, you’ll always feel broke no matter how many miles you run.
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