Driver costs now outstrip fuel expenses for most fleets ATRI report says Photo by Sean KilcarrFleet Owner

ATRI: Low fuel prices cut trucking costs in 2015

Sept. 26, 2016
Average marginal cost per mile dropped 6% to $1.59 in 2015, based on data gathered directly from motor carriers, group says.

A new report compiled by the American Transportation Research Institute (ATRI) indicates average marginal cost per mile declined 6% in 2015 versus 2014 due almost completely to low diesel fuel prices.

The group said average marginal cost per mile dropped to $1.59 in 2015, down from $1.70 in 2014 – largely attributed to the steady fall in diesel prices experienced last year.

Yet ATRI also pointed out that driver costs – including their wages and benefits – first time since the group began collecting such data in 2008 now represents a higher percentage of overall trucking costs than diesel fuel.

One new addition ATRI’s report this year centers on fleet-wide fuel economy, fleet operating speeds, plus the relationship between speed limiter use and fuel economy.

About the Author

Fleet Owner Staff

Our Editorial Team

Kevin Jones, Editorial Director, Commercial Vehicle Group

Cristina Commendatore, Executive Editor

Scott Achelpohl, Managing Editor 

Josh Fisher, Senior Editor

Catharine Conway, Digital Editor

Eric Van Egeren, Art Director

Voice your opinion!

To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of FleetOwner, create an account today!

Sponsored Recommendations

The Road Ahead: 2025 Trucking and Fleet Insights

Discover how fleet operators are impacted by challenges like driver onboarding delays and complex compliance, and the critical need for technology to boost efficiency and cut ...

Driving Growth: How to Manage More Freight

Ready to grow your trucking business? Whether you have 25 or 200 trucks, this guide offers practical tips and success stories to help you expand with confidence. Discover how ...

How to Maximize Fleet Management with Vehicle Bypass

Join us on February 18th to learn how truck weigh station bypass systems boost fleet performance and driver satisfaction.

Optimizing your fleet safety program using AI

Learn how AI supports fleet safety programs with tools for compliance monitoring, driver coaching and incident analysis to reduce risks and improve efficiency.