CarrierNet’s Year 1 Success Plan

For New Authority Carriers

Congratulations on getting your own authority. The first year is the hardest, but if you watch your numbers, you won’t just survive—you’ll profit.

Use this checklist and calculator to keep your business on the road.

Part 1: The “Year 1” Survival Checklist

Month 1–3: The Foundation (Stabilize Cash Flow)

• [ ] Know your “Break-Even” Rate: Calculate exactly how much it costs you to move the truck one mile. (Use the calculator below).
• [ ] Secure a Fuel Card: Get a card with zero transaction fees and discounts at the pumps you actually use. Don’t pay retail price.
• [ ] Check Broker Credit: Never haul a load without checking the broker’s credit score and “Days to Pay.”
• [ ] Build Your “Go-To” Lane: Find one or two lanes you run consistently. Spot market rates fluctuate; relationships pay the bills.

Month 4–6: The Optimization (Stop Leaking Money)

• [ ] Audit Your Factoring Statement: Check for “Wire Fees,” “ACH Fees,” or “Minimum Volume Penalties.” If you see them, call CarrierNet for a comparison.
• [ ] Review Insurance: Your insurance down payment was huge. Start shopping for renewal quotes early (Month 9) to avoid a price shock next year.
• [ ] Track “Deadhead” Miles: If your deadhead is over 15%, you are losing profit. Adjust your lane strategy.

Part 2: The Simple “Cost-Per-Mile” Calculator

Most new carriers guess. Successful carriers do the math.

Instructions: Fill in your estimated monthly costs within the calculator. The calculator will then determine your “Break-Even” rate. You must haul for more than this number to make a profit.

Use our: COST PER MILE CALCULATOR

CALCULATION: Total Costs ÷ Total Miles = YOUR COST PER MILE

Example: If your total monthly cost is $18,000 and you drive 10,000 miles, your Cost Per Mile is $1.80.

• If a broker offers you $1.70/mile, you are losing money to haul it.
• If a broker offers you $2.20/mile, you are making $0.40/mile profit.

Need help running these numbers? Call CarrierNet at (605) 306-4111. We help carriers figure out their profitability every single day.