Estimate fuel costs for any trip to calculate load profitability
TruckerPro automatically tracks fuel purchases and integrates with fuel card providers.
Start Free TrialFactors in load weight, terrain type, and real-world MPG adjustments to give you the most accurate fuel cost estimate possible.
Running empty vs. loaded makes a big difference. Our calculator adjusts fuel efficiency based on whether you are loaded, partial, or deadheading.
Mountainous routes burn significantly more fuel. Select your terrain type for a realistic cost projection on hilly or flat routes.
TruckerPro offers dispatch, load management, invoicing, and more for trucking companies.
A 500-mile trip at 6.5 MPG with diesel at $3.85/gallon (loaded, mixed terrain): Effective MPG = 6.5 × 0.85 × 1.0 = 5.53 MPG. Gallons needed = 500 / 5.53 = 90.5 gal. Total fuel cost = 90.5 × $3.85 = $348.37. Cost per mile = $0.697.
The average fuel efficiency for a semi truck is 5.5 to 7.5 MPG, depending on the truck age, engine type, load weight, and driving conditions. Newer trucks with aerodynamic features tend to be on the higher end.
Yes, mountainous terrain can reduce your MPG by up to 20% compared to flat highways. Hills require more engine power, burning significantly more fuel. Our calculator adjusts for flat, mixed, and mountainous terrain.
Maintain proper tire pressure, avoid excessive idling, plan fuel-efficient routes, use cruise control on highways, and fuel up at cheaper truck stops. Even small MPG improvements save hundreds over a month.