Local, Regional & OTR Trucking Operations
| Low | 1.5× |
| Median | 2.2× |
| High | 3× |
| Low | 2× |
| Median | 3× |
| High | 4.5× |
A regional trucking company with $250K SDE and stable shipper base in a non-saturated lane typically sells for $375K–$750K (median 2.2× SDE). Owner-operators with a single truck and dedicated route can expect 1.5–2.0× SDE. Flatbed and specialized freight command a premium (2.5–3.0× SDE).
U.S. trucking is a $940B industry (ATA 2024). The post-COVID freight boom (2021–2022) created oversupply — truck capacity exceeds demand by 15–20% in most lanes as of 2024. Rates have compressed 15–30% vs 2021 peaks. The long-term view: driver shortage will reassert itself as the industry ages out (median driver age: 55). Owner-operators with dedicated routes, intermodal capabilities, or specialized freight (hazmat, oversize) are more insulated than general commodity haulers.
Contact-based value drivers — buyer due diligence essential.
SBA loans for trucking are moderate (approval 63–68%) due to industry headwinds and equipment depreciation risk. Lenders look for: (1) dedicated routes with 2+ year shipper contracts, (2) owner-operator revenue model (more flexible and tax-efficient), (3) strong CSA scores ( FMCSA Safety Measurement System). Commercial equipment financing for trucks is available from specialized lenders (DLL, TFS, Navistar).
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Open Business Valuation Calculator →Freight recessions create opportunity. Truck valuations dropped 20–35% from 2022 peaks. Companies that couldn't survive the rate compression are selling at distressed prices. A buyer with 3–5 year horizon who can weather the current oversupply cycle could see significant appreciation as the market tightens (expected 2026–2027). Key: buy a company with a contract base (not spot market), low equipment age (3–5 years), and strong CSA scores. Don't buy a spot-market trucking company in a recession — rates may stay depressed for 2–3 more years.
DOT compliance and safety violations. The FMCSA's Safety Measurement System (SMS) is public — look up any DOT-authorized carrier at safer.fmcsa.dot.gov. A company with CSA scores in the "alert" category (above threshold in any Behavioral Analysis and Safety Improvement Category) will face increased inspections and insurance costs post-acquisition. Equipment that is out of compliance (brake violations, hours-of-service falsification) creates direct liability. Also check: pending audits for misclassified drivers (IC vs W-2), ULSD (diesel) environmental violations.
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