Rate Per Mile (RPM)

The freight payment divided by total loaded miles, used to compare lane profitability.

Rate per mile (RPM) is the standard unit of measure for trucking revenue, expressed in dollars per loaded mile. Brokers and carriers use RPM to negotiate freight, benchmark lanes, and forecast profit. Spot van rates in the U.S. typically range from $1.80 to $3.20 per mile depending on lane density, fuel, and demand.

How it is calculated

RPM = Total Linehaul Revenue / Loaded Miles

Example

A $2,400 load delivered over 1,200 loaded miles equals an RPM of $2.00.