Many companies rely on dedicated trucking services for their supply chain because they provide full control, consistent capacity, and guaranteed schedules. However, dedicated capacity usually means a higher upfront cost compared to spot freight.
The good news: with the right strategies, businesses can optimize costs and still benefit from the reliability of dedicated trucks.
💡 1. Maximize Trailer Utilization
The biggest cost drain in dedicated trucking is underutilized space.
- Consolidate loads across departments or business units.
- Plan routes to avoid trucks returning empty (deadhead).
- Use load optimization software or partner with a logistics provider who can do it for you.
👉 Pro Tip: A truck that runs only half full doubles your cost per unit shipped.
🕒 2. Align Delivery Schedules with Production and DemandDedicated trucking allows you to control timing, but inefficient scheduling leads to unnecessary trips.
Align dispatches with production cycles.Reduce frequency of half-empty runs by adjusting customer delivery windows.Use cross-docking to consolidate multiple suppliers into fewer shipments.
🛠️ 3. Match the Right Equipment to the JobNot all dedicated trucks are created equal.
Flatbeds, stepdecks, and lowboys: Best for oversized or heavy cargo.Dry vans or reefers: Best for packaged goods or temperature-sensitive products.Choosing the right trailer avoids paying for unnecessary capacity.
⚙️ 4. Monitor and Reduce Idle Time
Idle trucks increase fuel and labor costs.
- Implement GPS tracking to monitor downtime.
- Analyze data to adjust routes, stops, and schedules.
- Incentivize drivers to reduce idle hours.
👉 Companies that track idle time can cut 5–10% of fuel costs.
📊 5. Review Contract Structures and Pricing Models
Dedicated truck pricing can be optimized by negotiating:
- Fixed + variable cost models to balance predictability with flexibility.
- Backhaul opportunities with logistics partners.
- Multi-year contracts that secure capacity at lower rates.
🚛 6. Work with an Asset-Based Logistics Partner
Partnering with a provider that owns its fleet—like ELI Logistix—ensures:
- Cost efficiency (no middleman markup).
- Reliability in equipment availability.
- Customized strategies to balance cost and service.
Dedicated trucking guarantees capacity, but it doesn’t have to mean higher costs. With smart planning, the right partner, and visibility tools, companies can achieve both reliability and efficiency.
At ELI Logistix, we help clients optimize dedicated trucking strategies, reducing costs while ensuring on-time performance.
Want to reduce costs while keeping the benefits of dedicated trucking?
Contact ELI Logistix and let’s optimize your dedicated fleet strategy.