Why So Many Small Trucking Companies Fail (and How to Protect Yours)
Every year, hundreds of small carriers close their doors.
Most people assume it’s because of low freight rates or lack of loads. But the truth is… the biggest killer is cash flow.
When your numbers aren’t clear, money slips away.
Fuel, maintenance, permits, and tolls pile up — and then tax season shows up like a surprise storm. Suddenly you owe way more than you thought. By the time you realize it, the money is already gone.
The Real Danger: Not Knowing Your Numbers
Trucking is unique. You don’t just need to know if you’re “making money.” You need to know:
Your cost per mile
Your weekly cash flow (what’s coming in vs. what’s going out)
Which expenses are tax-deductible
Without those, you’re driving blind. And driving blind in this industry leads to shutdowns.
A Simple Way to Stay Ahead
The good news? You don’t need to be an accountant to protect your business. Start with these three habits:
Review your numbers weekly.
Take 10 minutes to look at fuel, maintenance, and permits. See where your money went.Set aside money for taxes.
Even 10–15% of each deposit adds up and keeps tax season from crushing you.Know your cost per mile.
If you don’t know this number, you don’t know if you’re profitable. It’s the most important figure in trucking finance.
You Don’t Have to Do It Alone
This is exactly why I started Red Clay Bookkeeping. I help truckers track their numbers, prepare for taxes, and keep their businesses running strong — even in tough markets.
👉 Want to see what clean books and clear reports look like for your trucking business?
Grab your free bookkeeping makeover before spots run out.
