Frequently Asked Questions

How much do owner operators actually make in 2026?

Net income varies widely — 5,000-50,000+/year depending on equipment, lanes, and rates. See our full income breakdown.

How do I file IFTA?

IFTA is filed quarterly through your base state's motor carrier division using your actual per-state mileage and fuel purchase records. See our full filing guide.

What is per diem and do I qualify?

Per diem is a tax deduction for meal expenses when you're away from home overnight for work. Most OTR drivers qualify. See our full explanation.

Should I lease or buy my truck?

It depends on your credit, cash reserves, and how long you plan to run. See our full comparison.

What's a good load board strategy?

Load boards work best combined with direct broker relationships over time. See our load board guide.

Do you sell my information?

No. We don't collect personal data through our calculators. See our Privacy Policy.

What should I know before a DOT inspection?

See our full DOT inspection checklist.

How do factoring companies work?

Factoring companies pay you upfront for invoices, minus a fee, so you don't wait 30+ days for broker payment. See our full explanation.