One of the most important parts of running and growing a trucking business is careful financial management. To get this right, you need to use the right accounting software.

The trouble is that trucking companies have many unique accounting needs. This means regular business accounting solutions won’t always cut it. Instead, you must use specific trucking accounting software to help you stay compliant and manage all of the essential financial elements of running a trucking operation.

In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about finding the right trucking software.

Trucking Accounting Software vs. General Accounting Software

Of course, the main difference between trucking accounting software and general accounting software is in their focus.

General accounting software, like QuickBooks, is designed for any business. It handles all the core accounting and bookkeeping tasks, like invoicing, payroll, profit and loss reports, and financial reporting. However, general platforms like this lack trucking company-specific features, such as International Fuel Tax Agreement (IFTA) reporting or cost-per-mile tracking.

These gaps often require trucking companies to rely on extra tools for those specific business accounting functions.

In contrast, trucking accounting software is built specifically for the trucking industry. It includes a range of features designed to manage trucking-specific needs, such as load tracking, fuel expense monitoring through fuel receipts, monitoring the latest fuel tax rates, and automated IFTA compliance.

In many cases, trucking office software streamlines operations by integrating bookkeeping software with fleet management, dispatching, and equipment tracking. This makes it a one-stop solution for trucking businesses, saving time and improving accuracy.

While general accounting software can be cheaper and easier to set up, trucking accounting software is a better investment if you want an all-in-one platform to handle financial and operational tasks.

Why You Need Accounting Software for Your Trucking Business

Finding the best trucking accounting software for your business can save time, reduce stress, and improve accuracy.

Beyond the general reasons to use good accounting software, like generating expense reports and managing your financial statements, here’s why it’s essential for truckers.

1. Streamline Billing and Invoicing

Trucking businesses often deal with multiple clients, loads, and payment terms.

Accounting software helps you create and send invoices quickly. Invoices can be automatically generated. Plus, the software automatically tracks unpaid bills, reducing the risk of errors or missed payments.

With organized billing, you can focus more on running your business instead of chasing payments.

2. Meet IFTA Compliance

Tracking fuel use across state lines for IFTA reporting can be a headache.

Accounting software designed for trucking automates this process. It calculates and prepares your IFTA reports by pulling data from your trips and fuel purchases. This saves loads of time, especially as an owner-operator, and ensures compliance, helping you avoid penalties.

3. Accurate Driver Pay

Paying company drivers fairly and on time is crucial for your business.

Trucking accounting software can calculate driver wages based on mileage, hours worked, or percentage of load revenue.

This eliminates guesswork and ensures drivers are paid accurately. It also helps you track payroll costs for better financial management.

How to Choose the Right Trucking Accounting Software (Key Features)

Choosing the right trucking accounting software is key to keeping your business efficient and your finances in order. To help you find the right solution, here are the most important features to look for.

1. Cost vs. Value

Don’t just go for the cheapest option – focus on value.

Look for software that fits your budget while providing all the tools you need. A slightly more expensive program might save you time and money in the long run by streamlining tasks like IFTA reporting, billing, and expense tracking.

Think about how much time and effort the software will save you, allowing you to focus on growing your business.

2. Key Features and Integrations

Make sure the software offers trucking-specific features like cost-per-mile tracking, IFTA compliance, and load management.

It should also integrate seamlessly with your existing systems, like ELDs, fuel cards, or dispatching tools. A lack of integration can create gaps in your data, causing inefficiencies or errors.

3. User-Friendliness

Good software should be easy to learn and use.

Look for a system your team can adapt to quickly, even if they’re not tech-savvy. The sooner everyone is comfortable using the software, the faster you’ll see the benefits.

4. Scalability

Choose software that can grow with your business. If you only have a few trucks now but plan to expand, pick a program that can handle larger fleets and more complex operations in the future.

This prevents the hassle of switching systems later on.

Top 5 Accounting Software Solutions for Trucking Companies

While there are many different options out there, here are our top picks for accounting solutions designed specifically for trucking businesses.

Rigbooks

Rigbooks is an accounting software solution built specifically for trucking operations. It starts at just $19 per month, offering affordable, trucking-specific tools like cost-per-mile tracking and IFTA reporting.

Designed to simplify bookkeeping, Rigbooks helps you track expenses, profits, and fuel usage in real-time, even while on the road.

It’s user-friendly and accessible on any device. Unlike general accounting software, Rigbooks calculates trucking costs accurately, letting you make smart decisions about loads and expenses.

Axon

Axon is a fully integrated accounting and management software for midsize and larger trucking operations.

Its standout feature is real-time integration, which syncs accounting, dispatch, and fleet management to eliminate repetitive data entry. Axon automates IFTA tax calculations and includes tools for payroll, dispatching, and fleet management.

While its comprehensive features and regular updates make it a powerful solution, it does require a bit of a learning curve for some users. Overall though, it’s ideal for trucking companies seeking efficiency and real-time insights.

TruckingOffice

TruckingOffice is a top choice for owner-operators and fleet builders who want an easy way to manage their trucking business.

Starting with a free trial, this software combines trucking management tools with an integrated ELD system for seamless operations. It handles dispatching, invoicing, expense tracking, and IFTA reporting all in one place.

Users love its ability to sync data automatically, reducing paperwork and saving time. It’s accessible from any device, ensuring you can manage your business from the road. It’s a smart choice for trucking professionals of all sizes.

Truck Logics

TruckLogics is a versatile trucking management software designed to simplify fleet operations. It allows users to manage dispatches, expenses, trip sheets, and maintenance in one convenient place.

The platform includes features like load tracking, payroll management, and driver portals, making it ideal for both owner-operators and larger fleets.

Users appreciate its affordability, and the ability to integrate brokers, carriers, and owner-operators into a single system.

The overall functionality and ease of use make TruckLogics a valuable tool for organizing trucking businesses and staying efficient in a competitive industry.

ProTransport

ProTransport is a powerful trucking software solution that fits fleets of all sizes. With its three tiers, it caters to small operators and large fleets alike.

Features include IFTA filing, driver pay statements, dispatch tools, and maintenance tracking. Integration with QuickBooks, fuel cards, and ELDs makes things easy to manage.

Its centralized platform simplifies operations, while the mobile app improves communication with drivers by supporting messaging, trip planning, and document uploads.

ProTransport also offers affordable subscription pricing which makes it a cost-effective choice. With excellent customer support and extensive features, it’s a smart solution for optimizing trucking operations and cutting costs.

Cost of Trucking Accounting Software

The cost of trucking accounting software can vary widely depending on your business size and needs.

For owner-operators or small fleets, basic trucking accounting software typically costs between $5 and $25 per month. This is great for smaller businesses with straightforward needs like basic invoicing, expense tracking, and IFTA reporting.

For larger fleets, the price goes up. Trucking management software designed for bigger operations usually costs $100 to $500+ per month.

The price often depends on the number of trucks or users. Some providers offer customized pricing for large businesses based on their specific requirements, which could include advanced features like fleet tracking and detailed payroll management.

Keep in mind that some businesses may need to combine multiple systems to get all the features they need. For example, you might use one tool for trucking-specific tasks like load tracking and another for payroll.

While this offers flexibility, it can increase the overall cost. Carefully consider pricing and functionality to ensure you’re getting good value for your investment.

Final Thoughts

Ultimately, the best accounting software solution comes down to your trucking company and its unique needs. Compare different options, trial different software where possible, and look for a solution that offers the exact set of features and integrations to make sunning your business an easier process.

If you’re starting or operating a trucking business, then getting the right commercial vehicle financing is also essential. At Mission Financial Services, we offer easy financing solutions for everyone, no matter what your credit score looks like or what type of truck you’re after. Get started today.

If you’re an owner-operator or fleet manager, knowing how to calculate cost per mile for commercial trucking is crucial for maintaining profitability. Accurately calculating this metric gives you clear insight into your operating costs, helping you make smarter decisions, prevent losses, and grow your profit margins. Without this knowledge, you risk jeopardizing your business’s financial health.

In this article, we’ll explain why understanding your cost per mile is essential for effective business planning and provide a step-by-step guide on how to calculate it. This information will empower you to keep your cash flow steady and ensure long-term success for your trucking business.

Why It’s Important to Know Your Cost Per Mile

Calculating cost per mile gives you the data you require to plan and manage your business’s finances effectively. Specifically, it helps with the following:

• Profitability and Pricing: When you understand your cost per mile, you can figure out how much you need to charge to make a profit and set your rates appropriately.
• Budgeting and Forecasting: Knowing your cost per mile lets you accurately track operating expenses like fuel, meals, and lodging, helping you pinpoint areas to cut costs and save. This insight also allows you to allocate budgets effectively as your business grows, ultimately boosting profit margins.
• Decision-Making for Fleet Operations: Analyzing cost per mile helps you make informed decisions on load selection, route optimization, and mileage reduction, ensuring that each delivery is profitable and maximizes revenue.

Breaking Down Cost Per Mile: What You Need to Know

To calculate your cost per mile, you must understand a few fundamental business metrics. These include:

Fixed costs

Your fixed costs are the unchanging expenses your trucking business incurs each month. These costs remain the same regardless of the number of loads you transport or miles you drive. Common examples include:

• Truck and insurance payments
• Truck payments (financing)
• License plates
• Rent
• Salaries
• Annual permits and licenses

Variable Costs

Unlike fixed costs, variable costs change monthly according to the number of loads and miles driven. The more loads and miles you cover, the higher your variable expenses will be. Some of the most common examples of these costs include:

• Fuel costs
• Maintenance costs
• Utilities
• Tolls
• Tires
• Food
• Unloading fees
• Freight-related fees (broker, dispatching services, etc.)
• Miscellaneous expenses

Miles Driven

There are two types of miles to track when calculating cost per mile – compensated and deadhead or empty miles. Compensated miles are the miles you cover when you’re on your way to make a delivery.

Deadhead or empty miles are the miles traveled after completing delivery, and your truck is empty. You’ll have to track both miles to estimate your per-mile expenditure accurately.

How to Calculate Cost Per Mile

To get your cost per mile, divide your total expenses by the total number of miles driven, i.e.,

Cost per mile = Total expenses ÷ Total miles

Here’s a step-by-step guide showing you how to apply the formula above:

Step 1: Select a time frame for Making Your Calculations

The first step to making reliable cost-per-mile calculations is to choose a time-frame for computation. This will guide your data collection process and minimize confusion.

If you’re working out your cost per mile for the first time, it’s best to pick a shorter time-frame, say a day or week, so you’ll have less data to work with and fewer figures to compute. If not, select an extended period, preferably aligning with how often you track other business metrics. It could be monthly, quarterly, or semi-annually.

Step 2: Determine Your Fixed Costs

After selecting your time-frame, track fixed expenses within that period by creating a spreadsheet listing each item. Add up these fixed costs for your chosen period to get an accurate total.

Remember that some expenses, like license plates, may be paid annually. If you’re calculating monthly costs, divide any annual expenses by 12. For example, if your yearly license plate fee is $1200, this would equal $100 per month.

Fixed costs provide a stable base for budgeting and financial planning since they remain constant. Accuracy here is key to setting reliable budgets and making precise forecasts.

Finally, review your fixed costs, such as commercial insurance or license fees, each time they renew, as these amounts can vary.

Step 3: Determine Your Variable Costs

After determining your fixed costs, work out your variable costs for the chosen time-frame. Because these costs differ significantly from one month to the next, the best way to record them is to create a column for variable costs on your spreadsheet. Then, use receipts to list all the variable expenses for a given month.

You could also use other tools, such as a fuel cost estimator, to get accurate estimates for your fuel costs if you don’t have all receipts handy. Once you record all variable costs, sum them up to get the month’s total variable expenses.

Track and monitor your variable costs as accurately as possible. It will help you identify ways to improve your business processes, cut costs, and increase revenue.

Following the example above, it’s clear that fuel and broker fees are the highest variable costs. If you introduce fuel efficiency strategies into your trucking business and work to replace brokers with regular clients, you’ll significantly reduce your variable costs and increase your profits.

Step 4: Track the Total Miles Driven

You cannot calculate the amount you spend per mile without knowing the miles you’ve traveled during the chosen time-frame. Knowing how many compensated and deadhead miles you’ve covered in a month is straightforward if you have electronic logging devices (ELDs), or other software to help you keep track of mileage.

If you don’t have any systems, you can work out your total mileage manually by checking your odometer readings at the start and end of the month. For instance, your odometer may read 70,000 miles at the beginning of the month and 80,000 miles at the end. That means you covered 10,000 miles that month.

Step 5: Calculate Your Cost Per Mile

To work out your cost per mile, add up your total fixed and variable costs. Then, divide the total cost by the number of miles driven.

In our case, the total expenses will be—$2900 + $6530 = $9430 (I.e., the fixed costs under step 2 plus the variable costs under step 3).

The cost per mile is $0.943. That is the total expenses ($9430) ÷ the miles driven under step 4 (10,000).

Conclusion

Calculating cost per mile will help you evaluate your business’s financial health. It can also guide you to the correct business moves and make the most of your career in the trucking industry. You’ll know what to do, where, and how to keep your business costs low and profits high.

For example, when tracking your mileage, you can know the number of deadhead miles you cover and look for ways to minimize them. And because deadheading still uses fuel – the second-largest operating cost of trucking businesses – reducing dead miles will help you reduce fuel consumption, helping you to save and keep more money.

Our guide above will help you get your cost per mile in no time, but if you prefer a simpler method, consider using an online cost-per-mile calculator. For more tips you can follow to ensure your trucking business thrives, visit our blog.

Managing a small fleet can be challenging for any business, making trucking software for small fleets an essential solution. From tracking vehicle maintenance to organizing driver schedules, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the details. Fleet management software is designed to address these challenges, helping small businesses streamline operations, cut costs, and keep their vehicles running efficiently.

In this guide, we’ll dive into the key features and benefits of trucking software for small fleets and discuss how to choose the right option to suit your business needs. Whether you operate a delivery service or a small trucking company, this guide will help you get started with the right tools to support your fleet.

Understanding Trucking Software for Small Fleets

To understand the value of trucking software for small fleets, let’s first cover what fleet management is.

Fleet management is overseeing and coordinating all vehicles for a trucking business. For small businesses, this means keeping track of fleet maintenance schedules, fuel costs, vehicle financial management, dispatch management, and driver management.

Whether running a delivery service, a plumbing company, or a small trucking business, fleet management is essential for controlling costs and improving efficiency.

Small fleets in the trucking industry can vary, but they usually include commercial vehicles like:

• Delivery vehicles: Used by companies that transport goods, from small packages to larger items.
• Service vans: Common for repair businesses or contractors who travel to different job sites.
• Trucks: Often used by smaller trucking companies to transport materials, equipment, or products.
• Company cars: For salespeople or managers who travel frequently for work.

Challenges of Small Fleet Management

Managing a fleet without the right trucking software can be tough, especially as your business grows. Here are some common problems you might face as a small fleet manager:

• Maintenance issues: Without a system, it’s easy to lose track of when vehicles need repairs or routine servicing. This can lead to breakdowns, which cost time and money.

 

• High operating costs: Small businesses often struggle to monitor fuel consumption, repairs, and other expenses. Without knowing where your money is going, it’s hard to cut costs.

 

• Driver accountability: It’s hard to track what your drivers are doing, how fast they’re driving, or if they’re following safety rules. This can lead to unsafe driving and increased liability for the company.

 

• Time-consuming administrative tasks: Keeping track of mileage, driver schedules, and vehicle documentation manually can take up a lot of time that could be spent growing the business.

 

• Limited insight into fleet performance: Without clear data on how your vehicles are being used, it’s tough to make informed decisions about buying new vehicles, retiring old ones, or improving your fleet’s efficiency.

By using the right trucking software for small fleets, you can automate these tasks, get real-time updates on your vehicles, and make better business decisions. Ultimately, trucking software will help you cut costs, stay organized, and keep your drivers safe.

Key Benefits of Fleet Management Software for Small Fleets

Using the right software solution can completely transform your small fleet operations. Here’s how.

Automating Reports and Manual Tasks

Fleet management software automates reporting on important parts of the job, like fuel usage, mileage, load management, and vehicle maintenance.

Instead of manually tracking these details, the software does it for you. This saves time and reduces human error.

You’ll also eliminate paperwork to increase your operational efficiency. This means less time spent on repetitive tasks and more time to focus on more important work.

Streamlining Vehicle Acquisition and Disposal

Digital solutions simplify the process of buying, selling, or retiring vehicles.

Software can track the entire lifecycle of each vehicle, from the day it’s purchased to the day it’s retired. This helps fleet owners decide when to sell or replace vehicles, ensuring you get the most value out of your investment.

Compliance with Licensing and Regulatory Requirements

Fleet management software helps you stay on top of legal requirements like vehicle licensing, permits, and other necessary documentation.

It provides reminders for renewal deadlines, ensuring you avoid penalties or fines for late submissions. For example, your software could keep track of the international fuel tax agreement, and help you calculate this automatically. This can save loads of time and effort.

Not only does this save time, but automated tracking makes staying compliant far easier and less stressful.

Enhancing Vehicle Inspections and Emergency Repairs

The software schedules routine inspections for your vehicles, helping to ensure they stay in good working order.

It also makes it easier to manage emergency repairs by providing real-time data on vehicle issues. This reduces downtime and keeps your fleet running smoothly.

Improving Safety Standards

Monitoring driver behavior is an important part of fleet safety. Fleet management software tracks how your drivers perform, including speeding, harsh braking, or other unsafe practices.

This helps promote safer driving habits. It also keeps a record of safety violations and vehicle maintenance, ensuring compliance with safety regulations.

Increasing Productivity

With fleet management software, you can track driver productivity, optimize routes, and reduce idle time.

By using the most efficient routes, drivers can complete more jobs in less time. This means your vehicles spend more time on the road, generating income, and less time sitting idle.

Enhancing Customer Service

Better fleet coordination leads to improved delivery times and communication.

This helps ensure your customers receive their products or services on time. The software also allows you to provide real-time updates, which boosts overall customer satisfaction.

Boosting Profitability

One of the biggest advantages of fleet management software is its ability to reduce operational costs.

By optimizing routes and monitoring fuel usage, you can cut down on fuel expenses. Software can also provide data that helps you make smarter business decisions, which can ultimately improve profitability.

Assessing the Fleet Management Needs for Small Fleets

Finding the right trucking software involves understanding the unique needs of your fleet. To determine this, consider the size of your fleet and the industry you’re in.

A small fleet with just a few vehicles will have very different requirements than a larger one with dozens of vehicles. Also, different industries, like logistics or service-based businesses, might require specialized features.

For example, logistics companies might need features like route optimization, real-time vehicle tracking, and tools to optimize load distribution and fuel management. This all improves delivery times and reduces costs.

On the other hand, service-based businesses – like plumbing or electrical repair companies – will benefit from task management, scheduling tools, and vehicle maintenance tracking to keep their operations running smoothly.

By understanding your fleet’s size and specific industry needs, you can choose software with the right features to improve efficiency, cut costs, and enhance productivity.

Choosing the Right Fleet Management Software for Small Fleets: Key Features

Choosing the right software solution for your specific business can be tricky. Here’s what you should prioritize when considering different trucking software companies.

User-Friendly Implementation

For small business owners with limited tech expertise, ease of use is critical.

Fleet management software should have a simple setup process and an intuitive interface. A user-friendly platform makes onboarding quicker and helps your team start using the software right away, without wasting time on training.

Cloud-Based vs. On-Premises Solutions

Cloud-based fleet management software is far more cost-effective and scalable for small fleets.

It allows you to access data from anywhere, using any device. On-premises solutions are usually more expensive and harder to maintain.

Small fleets will benefit from the flexibility and low upfront costs of cloud-based options.

Integration with Existing Systems

Your trucking software should offer seamless integration with other business tools you use, like CRM or accounting software.

This prevents duplicate data entry, saving time and reducing errors. With integration, you can keep all your business operations connected and running smoothly.

Scalability

It’s important to choose a solution that can grow with your business. Look for software with flexible pricing models that adjust as you add more vehicles or need new features.

This way, your fleet management system can scale without having to switch platforms later.

Vendor Reputation and Support

A reliable vendor with good customer support is key.

Look for software providers with strong reputations, positive reviews, and case studies from businesses similar to yours.

Good support and regular updates will ensure that the software continues to meet your needs as technology evolves.

Budget Considerations

While cost is important, focus on balancing your budget with the features you need.

Look for options that offer free trials or flexible pricing, and avoid hidden fees. Over time, the right fleet management software should provide a strong return on investment by improving efficiency and cutting costs.

Conclusion

Trucking software is an important investment for any small fleet. Take your time to find the right solution that matches your business needs, and you’ll see how much value it offers over the long run.

If you run a trucking business or manage a fleet, acquiring new vehicles is one of the most important parts of your job. At Mission Financial, we make it easy for small fleets to access favorable financing solutions for purchasing semi-trucks. Get started to see how easy truck financing can be.

If you’re an owner-operator looking to take on more loads, then Amazon might be the answer.

Amazon Relay offers truck drivers a great opportunity to tap into Amazon’s vast logistics network, providing steady loads and reliable pay. Through the app, drivers can find and manage jobs, while the company’s regular demand ensures consistent work.

Whether you’re an owner-operator or part of a fleet, Amazon Relay can help grow your business with quick payments and no load minimums. However, it’s not without its challenges.

Let’s explore everything you need to know to decide if Amazon Relay is the right fit for you.

Amazon Relay Overview

Amazon Relay is a platform that connects trucking companies, also known as carriers, with Amazon’s vast freight network. It’s a kind of relay load board designed for Amazon.

It allows carriers to find and book loads easily using the Amazon Relay app, which offers features like fast payments, real-time tracking, and load management.

Through Amazon Relay, carriers can access thousands of shipping loads, secure short-term contracts, and receive rewards like fuel discounts and early access to loads. It’s designed to help fleet owners and drivers grow their businesses with flexible options and convenient tools for managing freight.

If you’re an owner-operator or run a trucking business, Amazon Relay is a convenient load-board app to help you find and execute loads. It’s especially useful if you own a box truck.

How Amazon Relay Functions

Are you considering using the Amazon Relay load board? Here’s how the process works for Amazon Relay drivers.

Load Board Access

Amazon Relay offers carriers access to its load board, where they can find a wide range of shipping opportunities.

The load board shows real-time listings of available freight, making it easy to find and book loads that fit your schedule. As an Amazon Relay driver, you can also see important details, like the load price, distance, and delivery times. This helps you choose the best options for your business.

Short-Term Contract Options

For carriers looking for more predictable income, Amazon Relay provides short-term contracts.

Amazon Relay program contracts allow you to secure multiple loads for a fixed period, like one or two weeks.

This helps ensure a steady stream of work and is a great way to reduce downtime, giving carriers the ability to plan and budget more effectively.

Truck Posting Process

Amazon Relay simplifies the process of booking loads through its “Post a Truck” feature.

Carriers can create a Relay account, post available trucks, and their interior cargo dimensions, and specify their preferred routes. Then the system will automatically match them with suitable loads.

This helps minimize empty miles and maximizes efficiency by keeping your trucks on the move.

Types of Loads

Amazon Relay supports a variety of load types and truck classifications, including box trucks, dry vans, refrigerated (reefer) loads, and inter-modal freight.

This range of options allows owner-operators to choose the type of cargo that best suits their equipment and expertise. It also gives you flexibility in the kinds of hauls you take on.

Eligibility for Amazon Relay

According to the Amazon Relay carrier terms, here are the conditions you need to meet to qualify for being a driver.

Driver Criteria

To be eligible for Amazon Relay, drivers need to meet specific qualifications.

First, they must hold a valid Commercial Driver’s License (CDL). For semi-trucks, a Class A CDL is required, while for box trucks, a Class B CDL is enough.

Drivers must also be at least 21 for interstate routes and 18 for intrastate commerce.

You’ll also need to maintain strong safety records, with low scores in Amazon’s Behavior Analysis and Safety Improvement Categories (BASIC), including less than 60% in Unsafe Driving and HOS Compliance, and less than 75% in Vehicle Maintenance.

Carrier Criteria

Carriers interested in joining Amazon Relay must have an active DOT number with interstate authority and an MC number.

The carrier entity should be authorized for property and for-hire operations. Amazon Relay also requires carriers to have a satisfactory safety rating or no rating from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).

Carriers with scores above Amazon’s thresholds for Unsafe Driving, HOS Compliance, or Vehicle Maintenance may face challenges getting approved.

Vehicle & Trailer Standards

Amazon Relay has specific standards for the types of vehicles and trailers that can be used.

Carriers must operate either a 53-foot dry van or reefer trailer, or a 28-foot dry van trailer. For tractors, both sleepers and day cabs are acceptable.

Box trucks must be at least 26 feet in length, with interior dimensions of 26′ x 8′ x 8′, and must have a tuck-under liftgate.

It’s important to note that cargo vans, sprinter vans, and 24-foot box trucks are not eligible for Amazon Relay loads. All vehicles must be clean, well-maintained, watertight, and free from strong odors.

Amazon Relay Insurance Guidelines

Amazon Relay requires carriers to carry specific insurance coverages. These include:

• Commercial general liability: $1,000,000 per incident and $2,000,000 aggregate
• Auto liability: A minimum of $1,000,000
• Cargo coverage: $100,000
• Trailer replacement coverage: $50,000 for power-only loads
• Worker’s compensation: Required if the carrier employs W-2 drivers, along with employer liability coverage of at least $100,000

It’s important to have all these insurances validated before applying to avoid any delays. For more details on insurance, you can also check the Amazon Relay portal FAQs.

Performance Standards

Once you’re accepted into Amazon Relay, carriers are scored based on four performance metrics:

• On-time: Meeting pickup and delivery times
• App usage: Proper use of the Amazon Relay app for load tracking and updates
• Disruption-free: Completing loads without issues like missed assignments or delays
• Acceptance: Consistently accepting work offered

Amazon scores performance on a six-week rolling basis, grading from A+ to F. A higher score gives you access to more load opportunities, while low grades could result in fewer loads or even suspension.

Benefits of Amazon Relay

Considering using Amazon Relay to give your truck driving a boost? Here are some of the main advantages of using the Relay load board.

User-Friendly App

The Amazon Relay app makes managing loads simple.

Drivers can easily search for, book, and track loads right from their phones. The app also helps with updates, check-ins, and other essential tasks, making it easy to stay on top of everything while on the road.

Quick Payments

Amazon Relay offers fast payments. Once you complete a load, payments are processed weekly, meaning you’ll typically get paid within 1-2 weeks.

This quick payment system helps keep your cash flow steady.

Steady Demand

Amazon’s high volume of shipments means there’s always work available.

Whether during peak seasons or regular weeks, carriers can rely on steady load opportunities to keep their trucks moving.

No Load Minimums

With Amazon Relay, there’s no pressure to meet a load minimum. You can choose how many loads you want to take, giving you flexibility to work at your own pace and schedule.

Built-in Navigation

The Amazon Relay app comes with built-in navigation, helping drivers follow the best routes. It provides real-time updates, ensuring safe and efficient deliveries to Amazon facilities.

Drawbacks of Amazon Relay

While Amazon’s Relay load board is useful, it also comes with its potential drawbacks.

Night Run Frequency

Amazon Relay often requires drivers to run at night. Many of the loads are scheduled for evening or overnight shifts.

This can be challenging for drivers who prefer daytime driving or want a more regular sleep schedule.

Above-Average Requirements

As we’ve already outlined, Amazon Relay has strict requirements for carriers. These include specific insurance coverage, vehicle standards, and safety ratings.

Meeting these requirements can be difficult, especially for smaller carriers or new businesses.

Starting with Amazon Relay

If you’re interested in becoming an Amazon relay driver, getting started is relatively easy. Here are the key steps to follow.

Step 1: App Download

To get started with Amazon Relay, first download the Amazon Relay app. It’s available for both Android and iOS devices. This app will help you find and manage loads easily.

Step 2: Account Creation

Next, create an account on the Amazon Relay website. Follow the instructions to enter your company’s details. This will give you access to their load board and other tools.

Step 3: Information Submission

Submit all the required information, including your DOT number, MC number, and insurance details. Amazon will review your application and typically approve it within 2 – 4 business days.

Final Thoughts

Amazon Relay can be a great opportunity for truck drivers looking to expand their business and secure consistent loads. While it comes with certain challenges, it’s a convenient way to gain reliable, consistent loads – as long as you meet all the requirements.

If you’re ready to take the next step and need financing for your truck, get in touch with us at Mission Financial Services to explore flexible financing options designed for truckers. We make it easy to purchase your dream commercial vehicle and get your trucking business started