Category: Owner Operators

Truck Drivers Tax Preparation for Owner-Operators

Truck Drivers Tax Preparation

Running your own trucking business comes with freedom, flexibility, and a significant amount of responsibility, especially when it comes to taxes. Unlike company drivers who receive a W-2 and have taxes automatically withheld from their paychecks, owner-operators are considered self-employed. That means you’re responsible for reporting your income, tracking your business expenses, and calculating and paying your own taxes, both income tax and self-employment tax.

One of the most important tax obligations unique to truckers is the Heavy Vehicle Use Tax (HVUT), filed using IRS Form 2290. This annual federal tax applies to vehicles with a taxable gross weight of 55,000 pounds or more and must be filed before August 31 each year if the vehicle was in use on July 1. Additionally, owner-operators often owe quarterly estimated taxes, which include income tax and self-employment tax (Social Security and Medicare).

Why Tax Preparation is Especially Important for Owner-Operators

As an owner-operator, you’re not just a driver, you’re a small business owner. That means proper tax preparation is essential for keeping your business profitable and compliant with IRS regulations. Poor recordkeeping or missed deadlines can lead to costly penalties, interest, or even audits.

On the other hand, proactive tax preparation helps you:

  • Maximize deductions for fuel, maintenance, per diem, and equipment purchases.
  • Avoid surprises at tax time by planning for estimated payments.
  • Ensure compliance with HVUT, income tax, and business reporting rules.
  • Stay DMV compliant by filing Form 2290 and receiving your IRS-stamped Schedule 1 on time.
  • Track profitability and make smarter business decisions throughout the year.

Whether you’re new to trucking or a seasoned owner-operator, understanding your tax responsibilities and preparing early can save time, stress, and money. In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know to simplify tax season and stay ahead of the curve.

Understanding Tax Responsibilities as an Owner-Operator

When it comes to taxes, company drivers and owner-operators are treated very differently by the IRS.

  • Company drivers are classified as employees and receive a W-2 form from their employer at the end of the year. Taxes such as federal income tax, Social Security, and Medicare are automatically withheld from their paychecks.
  • Owner-operators, on the other hand, are considered self-employed. You may be leased to a carrier or operate under your own authority, but either way, you’re running a business. That means you’re responsible for tracking all income and expenses, filing tax forms, and paying taxes on your own, with no automatic withholdings.

Self-Employment Tax Obligations

As a self-employed individual, you must pay:

  1. Income Tax – Based on your net earnings after deducting business expenses.
  2. Self-Employment (SE) Tax – Covers Social Security and Medicare. For 2025, this tax is 15.3% of your net earnings (12.4% for Social Security and 2.9% for Medicare). You’re responsible for both the employer and employee portions of these taxes, unlike W-2 employees.

Additionally, most owner-operators are required to make quarterly estimated tax payments to avoid penalties for underpayment. These are due in April, June, September, and January.

IRS Forms Required for Owner-Operators

To stay compliant, owner-operators typically need to file several key forms:

Form 2290 – Heavy Vehicle Use Tax (HVUT)

  • Required for any highway vehicle with a gross weight of 55,000 lbs or more.
  • Must be filed annually, with a deadline of August 31 for vehicles in service by July 1.
  • Filing Form 2290 gives you the IRS-stamped Schedule 1, which is mandatory for registering your vehicle with the DMV.
  • ExpressTruckTax makes this filing fast and simple, with guaranteed Schedule 1 delivery.

Schedule C – Profit or Loss from Business

  • Used to report income and expenses for your trucking business.
  • This form helps you calculate your net income, which is used to determine how much tax you owe.
  • Deductions claimed here can include fuel, repairs, insurance, depreciation, and more.

Schedule SE – Self-Employment Tax

  • Based on the net income reported on Schedule C.
  • This form calculates the 15.3% SE tax owed for Social Security and Medicare.

Form 8849 – Claims for Refunds

  • Used to claim a refund for:
    • Sold, destroyed, or stolen vehicles
    • Low-mileage or suspended vehicles
    • Overpayment of HVUT
  • Only applicable in certain situations, but essential for recovering overpaid taxes.
  • ExpressTruckTax offers simple e-filing for Form 8849 (Schedule 6) if needed.

The Importance of Having an EIN (Employer Identification Number)

As an owner-operator, you’re required to file taxes under a valid Employer Identification Number (EIN), not your Social Security Number.

  • The IRS does not accept SSNs for Form 2290 filings.
  • An EIN is like a Social Security number for your business and is required for all federal tax forms.
  • You can apply for an EIN for free through the IRS website, but be aware that new EINs may take up to 10 business days to become active in the IRS e-file system.

By understanding these tax obligations and the forms required, you can better manage your finances, stay compliant, and avoid unnecessary penalties or delays, especially with important filings like Form 2290.

Key Deadlines to Know

As an owner-operator, keeping track of important IRS tax deadlines is critical for staying compliant, avoiding penalties, and keeping your business running smoothly. Missing even one deadline can result in late fees, interest charges, and potential issues with vehicle registration. Below are the key dates you need to know:

HVUT Filing Deadline – August 31

The Heavy Vehicle Use Tax (HVUT) is an annual tax required for any highway motor vehicle with a taxable gross weight of 55,000 pounds or more. It must be filed using IRS Form 2290, and the deadline depends on the vehicle’s first month of use.

  • For vehicles that are first used in July (the start of the HVUT tax year), the filing deadline is August 31.
  • For vehicles put into service during any other month, HVUT must be filed by the last day of the month following the first use month (e.g., if your truck was first used in October, your 2290 is due by November 30).
  • Filing late may result in penalties of up to 4.5% of the total tax due per month, plus interest.
  • You’ll need the IRS-stamped Schedule 1 as proof of payment to register your truck with the DMV, don’t wait until the last minute!

Pro Tip: Use ExpressTruckTax to file Form 2290 in minutes and get your stamped Schedule 1 instantly.

Quarterly Estimated Tax Payment Deadlines

As a self-employed owner-operator, you’re expected to pay taxes throughout the year, not just at tax time. This includes income tax and self-employment (SE) tax.

Because you don’t have taxes withheld from your earnings like a W-2 employee, the IRS requires you to pay quarterly estimated tax payments using Form 1040-ES.

Here are the due dates:

  • April 15 – For income earned January 1 to March 31
  • June 15 – For income earned April 1 to May 31
  • September 15 – For income earned June 1 to August 31
  • January 15 (of the following year) – For income earned September 1 to December 31

Failing to make these payments can result in underpayment penalties, even if you pay your full tax bill at the end of the year. A simple way to stay on track is to calculate your expected annual income and divide your tax obligation into four equal payments.

What Documents You Need to Gather

Proper tax preparation starts with having the right paperwork organized and ready to go. As an owner-operator, your tax return depends heavily on accurately reporting income and claiming all allowable deductions, which means documentation is everything.

Here’s a breakdown of the key documents you should collect and maintain throughout the year to ensure a smooth, accurate tax filing process:

Income Records (Invoices, Settlement Statements)

You need to report all income received from clients, brokers, and carriers. This includes:

  • Invoices you’ve issued for completed loads
  • Settlement statements from carriers or factoring companies
  • 1099-NEC forms (if issued by brokers or carriers reporting your earnings)

Even if you didn’t receive a 1099, you’re still required to report all income. These records form the basis of your gross income on Schedule C.

Expense Receipts

Keeping detailed records of business expenses is essential for maximizing your tax deductions. Categories include:

  • Fuel purchases
  • Repairs and maintenance
  • Truck washes
  • Tolls and parking
  • Truck insurance
  • Meals and lodging
  • Office supplies
  • Load boards and dispatching services
  • Tools, equipment, and uniforms

Use a scanning app or a document folder to keep receipts organized by category or month.

Tip: Many tax prep issues happen because receipts are missing. The IRS requires receipts for expenses over $75 and recommends keeping records for 3+ years.

Fuel Logs and Mileage Records

Fuel and mileage are two of the biggest expenses for truckers, and also among the most scrutinized by the IRS. Be sure to maintain:

  • Fuel receipts
  • Trip sheets or logs documenting start/end locations and total miles
  • ELD or GPS mileage reports
  • IFTA mileage summaries (if applicable)

These help substantiate fuel deductions and support mileage claims if you use the standard mileage rate (though most owner-operators deduct actual expenses).

Maintenance and Repair Records

Expenses related to the upkeep of your truck are fully deductible as business expenses. Be sure to keep:

  • Invoices for oil changes, tire replacements, engine repairs, etc.
  • Records for routine maintenance (e.g., brake checks, alignments)
  • Service contracts and warranty work

Documenting these properly can make a big difference in your total deductions on Schedule C.

Asset Purchases (Trucks, Trailers, Equipment)

Major purchases may qualify for depreciation or Section 179 deductions. You’ll need:

  • Purchase agreements
  • Loan documents
  • Title paperwork
  • Payment receipts or financing terms

For example:

  • A truck purchase can be depreciated over several years or fully expensed under Section 179.
  • Items like trailers, APU units, or communication equipment may also be deductible.

Work with a tax professional to determine the best approach for depreciating or expensing high-value assets.

Bank Statements and Credit Card Summaries

Bank and credit card records serve as backup for income and expenses, especially if:

  • You missed saving some receipts
  • You’re audited and need additional documentation
  • You need to cross-reference transactions

Keep both personal and business account statements, especially if you use separate business accounts (which is strongly recommended).

Previous Year’s Tax Return (If Applicable)

Having your prior year’s return can be helpful for:

  • Comparing income and deductions
  • Carrying forward depreciation schedules or losses
  • Ensuring consistency and preventing audit flags
  • Referencing your EIN, business name, and prior filing status

Keeping everything organized will reduce stress at tax time and may lower your tax prep fees if you work with a professional.

Top Tax Deductions for Owner-Operators

Top Tax Deductions for Owner-Operators

One of the biggest advantages of being an owner-operator is the ability to deduct a wide range of business expenses on your tax return. These deductions help reduce your net taxable income, lowering the amount of tax you owe. But to take full advantage of these deductions, it’s important to know what qualifies and to keep proper records.

Here’s a breakdown of the most common and valuable deductions for owner-operators:

1. Truck Lease or Purchase Payments (Depreciation or Section 179)

If you’ve leased your truck, you can deduct the lease payments as a business expense.

If you’ve purchased the truck:

  • You may be able to depreciate the cost over several years using MACRS depreciation.
  • Alternatively, you can deduct the full cost upfront using Section 179 (up to the IRS annual limit), provided the vehicle is used primarily for business.

Tip: A tax professional can help you determine whether depreciation or Section 179 gives you the best tax advantage.

2. Fuel and Maintenance

Fuel is often the largest ongoing cost for truckers and is 100% deductible if used for business purposes. Don’t forget to also deduct:

  • Oil changes
  • Tire replacements
  • Routine maintenance
  • Repairs and emergency roadside services

Be sure to keep all fuel receipts and maintenance invoices organized by date and truck.

3. Meals and Per Diem

Owner-operators who travel away from their tax home for work can deduct:

  • Actual meal expenses (with receipts)
  • Or use the IRS per diem rate, which simplifies the process and may result in a higher deduction

For 2025, the per diem for truckers is typically around $69 per full day in the continental U.S. (subject to IRS updates). You can deduct 80% of the per diem amount or meal costs.

4. Lodging and Travel Expenses

When you’re on the road and need to stay overnight:

  • Hotel stays, motels, or Airbnb rentals are fully deductible
  • Other travel expenses like laundry, showers, and even business-related airfare (e.g., for fleet purchases or training events) may be deductible

Keep all receipts and note the business purpose of the trip.

5. Licensing and Permits

Any licenses, permits, and registrations required to operate your trucking business are fully deductible. These may include:

  • CDL renewals
  • UCR (Unified Carrier Registration)
  • IRP (International Registration Plan) fees
  • Heavy Vehicle Use Tax (Form 2290)
  • State-specific permits or fees

6. Insurance (Truck, Health, Liability)

As a business owner, insurance is both essential and deductible:

  • Truck insurance (primary liability, physical damage, cargo)
  • Occupational accident insurance
  • Health insurance premiums (for self-employed individuals, if you meet IRS qualifications)
  • Business liability insurance

Even premiums for bobtail or non-trucking liability can be deducted.

7. Tolls and Parking Fees

Costs for toll roads, bridges, or parking lots used during business travel are 100% deductible. Be sure to:

  • Save toll receipts
  • Document dates and locations
  • Use a toll-tracking app or record if possible

8. Cell Phone and Internet (Business Portion)

If you use your cell phone or internet service for business (e.g., dispatching, GPS, logging hours):

  • You can deduct a reasonable portion of the monthly bill
  • For example, if 70% of your cell phone usage is for business, you can deduct 70% of the bill

Also deductible: business-use portion of hotspot devices or internet at home, if used for business operations.

9. Accounting and Tax Preparation Fees

If you use a tax professional or purchase software to help manage your books, those fees are deductible:

  • Tax filing software (like ExpressTruckTax for Form 2290 or 8849)
  • Bookkeeping and payroll services
  • Business consulting related to taxes or compliance

10. GPS and ELD Equipment

If you purchased or leased:

  • A GPS system used for navigation
  • An ELD (Electronic Logging Device) used to stay compliant with FMCSA regulations

Those are deductible business tools. Also included: mounting hardware, subscriptions, and service fees related to the devices.

Bonus Tip: Keep Clear, Accurate Records

To claim any of these deductions, the IRS expects you to prove business use. Maintain:

  • Receipts
  • Invoices
  • Spreadsheets or accounting software logs
  • A clear separation of personal and business expenses

Claiming every legitimate deduction can lead to thousands of dollars in tax savings each year. If you’re unsure how to track or categorize these deductions, consider using a trucking-specific accounting tool or working with a tax professional who understands the industry.

As an owner-operator, you’re not just driving, you’re running a business. And like any successful business owner, staying organized, compliant, and proactive with your taxes is essential. From tracking income and claiming deductions to meeting deadlines for Form 2290 and quarterly estimated taxes, every detail matters.

When you keep accurate records and understand your responsibilities, you:

  • Maximize your deductions
  • Minimize your tax liability
  • Avoid costly penalties and IRS audits
  • Ensure your truck stays on the road without DMV registration delays

But trying to manage it all manually, especially with the demands of being on the road, can be overwhelming. That’s where trusted tools and partners come in.

File Smarter with ExpressTruckTax

When it comes to filing Form 2290, there’s no better option than ExpressTruckTax, the IRS-authorized, industry-leading e-file solution trusted by thousands of truckers and fleets nationwide.

With ExpressTruckTax, you get:

  • Fast and guaranteed Schedule 1 or your money back
  • Free VIN corrections if you originally filed with us
  • Mobile access so you can file from anywhere
  • Secure IRS transmission with built-in error checks
  • Real U.S.-based customer support by phone, chat, or email, no bots

Whether you’re filing for a single vehicle or managing a large fleet, ExpressTruckTax makes HVUT filing quick, accurate, and stress-free.

Stay Ahead. Stay Compliant. Keep Rolling.

The best time to get organized for tax season is now, not when the deadlines hit. By staying on top of your documentation, knowing your deductions, and using trusted platforms like ExpressTruckTax, you can take control of your tax situation and focus on what you do best: keeping America moving.

Need help getting started with your 2290 filing? Visit ExpressTruckTax.com or call our support team at 877-520-8640.

Top Trucker Deductions Every Owner-Operator Should Know

Trucker Deductions

Running a successful trucking business isn’t just about keeping the wheels turning — it’s also about keeping your finances in check. For owner-operators and independent drivers, understanding trucker deductions is a key part of maximizing profits and reducing tax liability. Every dollar saved through eligible business deductions directly impacts your bottom line.

The trucking industry comes with unique expenses that many drivers overlook during tax season. From fuel and maintenance to permits and lodging, knowing what you can legally deduct helps reduce your taxable income — meaning you keep more of your hard-earned money.

Whether you’re new to being an owner-operator or you’ve been hauling for years, staying informed about available trucker deductions ensures you aren’t leaving money on the table. This guide breaks down the most common deductions every trucker should know, helping you stay compliant, avoid IRS issues, and make the most of your business income.

Why Trucker Deductions Matter

For owner-operators and small fleet owners, trucking is more than just a job — it’s a business. Like any business, understanding and leveraging tax deductions is crucial for long-term financial success. Trucker deductions can significantly lower your taxable income, reducing the amount you owe the IRS and keeping more money in your pocket.

While the IRS allows numerous deductions for truckers, they also require accurate recordkeeping and compliance. Failing to properly document expenses or misunderstanding what qualifies as a deduction can lead to costly mistakes, including:

  • Overstating expenses, which may trigger audits or penalties
  • Missing eligible deductions, leaving money on the table
  • Using incorrect or outdated VINs on tax forms, delaying filings
  • Filing under the wrong tax category for your vehicle’s weight or mileage

Owner-operators must keep clear, organized records of all business-related expenses. Receipts, invoices, mileage logs, and maintenance records are essential for substantiating your deductions if audited.

Top Trucker Deductions to Know

Understanding what qualifies as legitimate trucker deductions is essential for minimizing tax liability and keeping your business profitable. Below are the most common deductions every owner-operator should track and claim.

1. Vehicle Expenses

Your truck is your business’s backbone — and fortunately, many of its costs are tax-deductible.

  • Depreciation of Trucks and Trailers: You can deduct the depreciation of your truck or trailer over time, helping offset the major upfront investment. The IRS allows depreciation over several years, which can significantly reduce taxable income.
  • Lease Payments: If you’re leasing your vehicle instead of purchasing, lease payments are considered a deductible business expense.
  • Truck Loan Interest: For financed vehicles, the interest portion of your loan payments is tax-deductible, though the principal is not.

2. Fuel Costs

Fuel is one of the largest expenses for truckers — and luckily, it’s fully deductible when used for business purposes.

  • Fuel Purchases: All diesel, gas, and other fuel costs for your truck can be claimed as deductions. Keep detailed records, including receipts and mileage logs.
  • Fuel Card Fees: If you use a fuel card, any associated service fees or administrative costs are deductible.
  • Importance of Keeping Accurate Fuel Receipts: The IRS may request proof of fuel expenses, so maintaining organized, itemized fuel receipts is critical to avoid issues during audits.

3. Maintenance & Repairs

Keeping your vehicle roadworthy isn’t optional — and the good news is, most maintenance costs are deductible.

  • Routine Maintenance: Expenses for oil changes, tire replacements, brakes, and other regular upkeep are fully deductible.
  • Emergency Repairs: Unexpected repairs such as engine work, transmission fixes, or towing services are eligible deductions.
  • Truck Washes: Keeping your truck clean isn’t just good for business image — truck wash expenses also qualify as deductions.

4. Insurance Premiums

Insurance is an unavoidable part of the trucking industry, but your premiums can lower your tax bill.

  • Truck Insurance: Policies covering physical damage, liability, and other trucking risks are deductible.
  • Cargo Insurance: If you carry cargo insurance to protect your loads, those premiums are considered business expenses.
  • Liability and Health Insurance (If Self-Employed): Self-employed truckers may also deduct health insurance premiums, reducing personal tax liability.

5. Licensing & Permits

Operating legally requires licenses and permits — many of which qualify as tax deductions.

  • CDL Fees: The cost of obtaining or renewing your Commercial Driver’s License is deductible.
  • HVUT (Form 2290) Payments: Your Heavy Vehicle Use Tax (HVUT) paid through Form 2290 is a deductible business expense — and ExpressTruckTax makes it easy to file accurately and quickly.
  • State Permits and Registration: Expenses for state-specific permits, registration renewals, and related administrative fees are deductible.

6. Travel Expenses

Life on the road involves significant travel costs — many of which can be deducted with proper documentation.

  • Lodging During Long Hauls: Hotel stays and overnight accommodations when away from home are deductible if they are for business purposes.
  • Meals (Per Diem Rates and Logbook Requirements): Meals on the road are deductible, often based on standard IRS per diem rates. Keep detailed trip logs to validate these deductions.
  • Parking and Toll Fees: Any costs for toll roads, bridges, or parking while operating your truck are considered business expenses.

7. Communication Tools

Staying connected on the road is vital — and so are the deductions related to it.

  • Cell Phone Bills (Business Portion): The portion of your cell phone usage dedicated to business — calls, data, etc. — is tax-deductible.
  • Internet or Satellite Radio Subscriptions (Business Use): If you use internet hotspots, satellite radio, or similar services for navigation, weather updates, or business communication, those costs are deductible.

8. Professional Services

Running a trucking business often requires outside expertise — and the costs can reduce your taxable income.

  • Tax Preparation Fees: Fees for filing taxes, including services like ExpressTruckTax or other preparers, are deductible.
  • Accounting or Legal Services: Any legal or accounting assistance for your business operations is tax-deductible.
  • Industry Association Memberships: Membership dues for trucking associations or professional groups that support your business are deductible.

9. Office Supplies & Technology

Running your business efficiently often means investing in tech and supplies — and many qualify as deductions.

  • GPS Systems, Tablets, Laptops: Devices used for navigation, load tracking, or business management can be deducted.
  • Office Supplies for Business Management: Paperwork, filing systems, office equipment, and similar supplies are eligible deductions.
  • ELD (Electronic Logging Device) Costs: Costs for purchasing, installing, and maintaining ELDs, which are required by law, are deductible.
Trucker Deductions

Keeping Records for Deductions

Maximizing your trucker deductions starts with one critical habit: keeping detailed, organized records. The IRS requires proper documentation to validate all claimed expenses, and failing to maintain accurate records can lead to missed deductions, penalties, or even an audit. For owner-operators, good recordkeeping isn’t just about taxes — it’s about protecting your business and ensuring you get every dollar you’re entitled to.

Importance of Detailed Documentation

The IRS expects clear, verifiable proof for all business expenses you claim as deductions. If you’re ever audited, incomplete or vague records can result in denied deductions, extra taxes owed, and additional penalties. Detailed documentation provides:

  • Proof of legitimate business expenses
  • Peace of mind during tax season
  • Stronger defense if audited
  • Greater accuracy for filings like Form 2290 or tax returns

Good recordkeeping also helps track your business’s overall financial health — allowing you to plan for expenses, monitor profitability, and make informed decisions.

Tips for Organizing Receipts and Expense Logs

Staying organized can feel overwhelming, especially for busy truckers constantly on the road. But with a few simple habits, you can maintain easy, IRS-compliant records:

Save Every Receipt: Whether it’s fuel, maintenance, meals, lodging, or tolls — keep all physical receipts related to your business.

Label and Categorize: Sort receipts by category (fuel, repairs, meals, etc.) and note the purpose on the receipt itself when possible.

Keep a Mileage Log: Track all business-related mileage accurately, especially for trips where you claim per diem or travel expenses.

Use Envelopes or Folders: Keep physical receipts in labeled envelopes or folders in your truck, making it easy to organize weekly or monthly.

Digitize Paper Receipts: Take photos or scan receipts regularly to avoid faded or lost paper copies.

Update Expense Logs Consistently: Set a routine to log expenses daily or weekly, rather than letting them pile up.

Digital Tools and Apps for Expense Tracking

Modern technology makes managing your records easier than ever. Several apps and tools are designed specifically for truckers and small businesses, helping you stay organized while on the move:

Expense Tracking Apps: Use apps like QuickBooks Self-Employed, Everlance, or TruckBytes to log expenses, scan receipts, and categorize deductions.

Fuel Card Portals: Many fuel cards come with built-in expense tracking and reporting tools — a convenient way to document fuel purchases and fees.

Cloud Storage: Store digital copies of receipts and documents in secure platforms like Google Drive, Dropbox, or OneDrive for easy access and backup.

Tax Filing Platforms: Services like ExpressTruckTax not only simplify your Form 2290 filing but also keep copies of your tax records, IRS Schedule 1, and payment confirmations accessible anytime.

By staying consistent with your recordkeeping and using available tools, you’ll not only maximize your deductions but also reduce the stress of tax season and ensure your trucking business stays compliant and profitable.

How ExpressTruckTax Supports Truckers

Maximizing your trucker deductions and staying compliant with tax regulations can be overwhelming, especially for busy owner-operators and fleet managers. That’s where ExpressTruckTax makes a difference. As the leading IRS-authorized e-file provider for Form 2290, ExpressTruckTax offers a full suite of tools to simplify your HVUT filing process, reduce costly errors, and help you stay organized for tax season.

Accurate HVUT Filing to Avoid Penalties

Filing Form 2290 — the Heavy Vehicle Use Tax — is mandatory for vehicles with a taxable gross weight of 55,000 pounds or more. Mistakes in your HVUT filing can lead to:

  • IRS penalties and late fees
  • Delays in receiving your Schedule 1, required for DMV registration
  • Registration issues that could sideline your truck

ExpressTruckTax provides a user-friendly, step-by-step filing process with built-in error checks to help you:

  • Enter accurate vehicle and business details
  • Calculate the correct HVUT amount based on your truck’s weight
  • Choose your preferred IRS payment method
  • Receive your stamped Schedule 1 in minutes

Our guaranteed Schedule 1 delivery ensures you get your proof of payment quickly — or your money back.

Free VIN Correction and Amendment Services

Mistakes happen — but with ExpressTruckTax, they don’t have to cost you. We offer:

Free VIN Corrections: If you filed with ExpressTruckTax and made a typo in your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), you can correct it for free and avoid DMV delays.

2290 Amendments Made Simple: If your vehicle’s taxable gross weight increases or you exceed the mileage limit for suspended vehicles, you’re required to file an amendment. ExpressTruckTax guides you through:

  • Weight increase amendments
  • Mileage exceeded filings
  • Instant IRS transmission and updated Schedule 1

This keeps you compliant, avoids penalties, and ensures your vehicle stays road-ready.As an owner-operator, staying on top of your eligible deductions isn’t just smart — it’s essential to running a profitable, compliant trucking business. From fuel and maintenance to HVUT payments and professional services, each deduction helps reduce your tax burden and increase your bottom line.

How To Increase Your Trucking Client Base With DIY Marketing

Whether you are just getting your own authority or you are struggling to increase your current client base, you should consider using these no-nonsense, do-it-yourself marketing techniques.

These techniques come at little or no cost to you and they don’t require a marketing guru to implement.

With just a little elbow grease, these simple marketing strategies can help increase your brand awareness and trucking client base.

Marketing evaluation

Your first step to creating a trucking marketing strategy is to look at how your business compares to other trucking operations in your community. Also, consider your level of experience compared to theirs. 

If you are a well-established trucking company with a solid reputation for delivering on time, capitalize on that fact! If you are just starting out, focus on what you excel at or what sets you apart from others, so clients can see more value from your services.

Work with other related trucking businesses within your area to cross-promote each other’s services. For instance, if you use a great factoring company, ask if they would be willing to mention you on their social media pages.

Think like a small business

It’s important to remember, especially if you just got your own authority, that you are a small business owner. You need a modern-looking website (these are surprisingly easy and cheap to create with websites like Squarespace.com and Wix.com). 

You need at least one business social media account for your business (Facebook is usually best). And most importantly, you need to pay attention to how people are responding to your online presence.

Find your niche

Don’t just haul groceries or construction equipment because that’s what your buddy does. Do some research and figure out what is in demand and use social media and your website to show how you are a perfect match for that part of the trucking industry.

Client relations

Join your state trucking association and start networking with other companies in the trucking industry. 

Make sure that you are mentioning your clients on your social media accounts. Let them know if you had a good experience. Show other potential clients that you are polite and engaged. No one wants to do business with someone who comes off as grumpy.

Mobile marketing

If you haven’t already, be sure to get your logo on your truck and trailers if possible. This is an easy way to raise brand awareness while you are simply driving around.

According to Fleet Owner, marketing on your truck and trailer is more effective than almost any other form of marketing for truckers.

However, this one isn’t really DIY.

The best option is to have your truck professionally wrapped with a graphic of your logo and phone number. It will look much better this way.

Your name and number must be large enough so people can see while driving and must be branded so it can be recognized on your website and social media.

Join local charities

Become a Toys-For-Tots drop-off location during the holiday season. Alternatively, get involved with local toy drives or charities. You will be seen doing good within your community, and your name will be noticed every time someone donates a toy to a child in need.

Get DAT with TruckLogics

With new DAT load board integration from TruckLogics, you can post your truck availability so that clients can start contacting you, instead of the other way around.

You can set the dates that you are available and even where you would like to run!

Get a 15-day free trial of TruckLogics! There’s no obligation and credit card information required.

Trucker Tips: How I Find The Best-Paying Loads

Guest blog post by DAT Contributor Sammy Lloyd. 

Being an owner-operator is tough. You need all the tools possible to stay profitable. Back when I was leased-on with a carrier, the only way for me to make more money was to become an expert on cutting costs. Now that I operate under my own MC number, I focus on more than just my expenses.

Here are three strategies I use to squeeze more profit out of every load I haul: 

1. Know the current lane rates

After I got my own operating authority, I started out with the Enhanced version of the DAT TruckerEdge load board. It included 90-day lane rate averages. I soon realized I was leaving money on the table by not knowing the 15-day average, so I upgraded to the Pro version. It has helped me get above-average rates.

The first time I told a broker I was looking at the 15-day average on DAT, his whole demeanor changed. He could tell I knew more about lane rates than someone who isn’t serious about their business.

Sign up for 30 days free on DAT TruckersEdge

2. Research which freight markets are hot

I’ve learned over the years that freight is like a living organism — forever changing, moving, and growing. A market that is hot this week may not be next week, and vice versa. You have to keep up with the changes weekly, even daily, and stick to strong markets with plenty of freight.

Before I’ll ever call a broker, I’ll go into TruckersEdge and do some lane searches to see what lanes are paying the best. Then I’ll check the load counts in the market I’m in and get a load-to-truck ratio. If there are way more loads than trucks, I know my trailer is a hot commodity and it will take more money for me to jump on a load.

On the other hand, I’ll take less than the average rate if I know it’s going to take me into a strong market. That’s why it’s crucial to stay up to date on both the market you’re in and the market you’re headed to.

3. Always look ahead to your next load

After I get on a load and know where I’m going, I’ll look into the market I’m headed into and get an idea of where I need to go next. I try my best to stay a load and a day ahead at all times.

I’ll try to secure another load at my destination before I get there. If I’m delivering a load at 8 a.m. tomorrow, and I can get another load with an open pickup window at or above the average rate, I’m all for it. Very seldom

do I pull a load for less than average, but sometimes the cards just aren’t in my favor.

But I keep in mind that time equals money: Rolling at $1.50 per mile today is more profitable than $2.00 per mile tomorrow. Pre-booking my next load helps me cut down on wasted time, and time management is very important in this business. 
With good planning during my week, I find that I can make room for an additional load by week’s end.
On my YouTube channel, MakeCents Trucker, I tell people all the time: I’m not the smartest in the industry. I’m learning as I go, and this is what I do. In an industry where most fail as an owner-operator or independent carrier, I’ve been able to keep the lights on.

DAT Solutions provides truckers and carriers access to North America’s largest marketplace of loads and trucks with over 900,000 loads posted daily. Click here to learn more about DAT and how you can get 30 days free on DAT TruckersEdge.

Click here to view the original DAT blog post by contributor Sammy Lloyd.

Rookie Driving Mistakes To Avoid

The last thing you want to do on the road is look like a rookie. While truck drivers receive a lot of respect, it’s the drivers who seem experienced and like they have been driving for a decade who get the most respect. Even guys who have been driving for 3 or more years can still look like rookies to the seasoned professionals, so avoid the rookie mistakes listed below so you can be considered one of the top dogs. 

Rookie Driving Mistakes to Avoid

Don’t drive while distracted. If another driver catches you texting, holding your GPS, reading a book, or something else ridiculous you may not live it down. Plus, driving while distracted is extremely dangerous.

You’re providing a service to millions of people while transporting goods, but you want to keep those people safe on the road too. Avoid electronics and anything else distracting while on the road.

When it comes to your GPS type in your location before your start driving and make sure that it’s safely and securely mounted on your dash or windshield. If you’re typing stuff into it while you drive or it comes loose and you have to pick it up then a major situation could quickly be created.

Speeding is a major sign of a rookie driver. Not only is speeding dangerous and unnecessary, but it’s not fuel efficient. When you’re spending tons on fuel then saving where you can make a big difference! Driving about 10 mph below the speed limit will result in some major savings on fuel. Don’t worry about making cars around you mad by going slow, they will pass you either way.

 

Remember to take turns slow too. Rookie drivers often forget that they’re hauling a long trailer and turning too quickly to cause it to flip. Also, cutting a turn too close can result in running over curbs or hitting other vehicles which is always awkward. You don’t want to damage your freight or have accidents on your record.

You know those signs that suggest driving a certain speed or tell you the clearance of bridges? Yeah, don’t ignore those. Those signs are there for a reason, and that’s because other drivers have tested the limits of those exit ramps and bridges before. If your truck takes a tumble or you scrape your trailer you might be laughed at for a while.

Greenhorns don’t use their turn signals. What’s up with that? It’s important to let other drivers know what your intentions are. Other drivers can’t read your mind if you’re trying to merge over. By not using your turn signal you could cut people off and make them slam on breaks, creating a mess of things.

You also need to know when the right time to merge is. Some drivers move over the second they hit their blinker, and some guys wait too long to get over. Don’t hesitate and make sure it’s clear first. But if you wait too long other drivers will think you accidentally left your blinker on and will speed around you.

Another sign of rookie driving is tailgating. Don’t ride people’s butts! If they suddenly need to break there is no way you’re going to stop in time and could plow into or right through them. Plus, tailgating insight road rage which could lead to a potentially dangerous situation. 

Drive Like a Pro

You’re on the road for a reason, it’s your calling! Take pride in what you do by driving like a professional. Slow down, play attention to traffic signs and laws, and never drive distracted. Then before you know it you’ll be the seasoned trucker giving new drivers advice.

For more driving tips visit ExpressTruckTax.com and please share your tips about what gives rookie drivers away in the comment section below.

How To Find Trucking Jobs

Being a trucker has its perks. Your cab serves as your independent office where you can listen to whatever music you want loudly, and enjoy the freedom of working alone without anyone else around to annoy you, except for those in other vehicles. It’s pretty awesome. But apart of being a successful trucker involves the ability to find trucking jobs, so where should you look? Luckily for you, we have the answers. 

How To Find Trucking Jobs

The first step is simple, look online. Use your laptop, phone, or tablet to check out job sites. There are a few job sites that that cover a broad range of industries and there are others that are dedicated only to trucking. Use those sites to search for jobs, and to post your resume so that employers can find you.

There isn’t just one magical place to find a job, there are many. People are using the internet in new ways every day to look for quality people to hire. Check out social media sites like FaceBook and LinkedIn, forums, company sites, and ads. Opportunity is everywhere.

If you’re just starting out remember that it will look better if you have a little experience. Consider going to a driver school to learn the basics and to get some time behind the wheel. Also, you will need to get a CDL or Commercial Driver’s License and pass the Federal Motor Certification Safety Regulation or FMCSR exam. It has a written, hearing, and physical part, and you’ll need to pass the physical on an annual basis. Some bigger trucking companies will actually provide driving and CDL training when they bring you on board.

You don’t need a college degree, but you do need your GED. Also, you will need a clean driving record. Make your record is clear of accidents, tickets, and DUI’s, as those will make you unqualified for some companies.

In order to get some experience, you need to put time behind the wheel. It’s generally easier to be a long haul trucker at first, instead of a daily local driver. Driving around town involves being on small crowded streets and having to back up and maneuver around parking lots on a daily basis, and you may only do that stuff a few times a week as a long haul trucker.

 

Also, local trucking companies are a little bit harsher about incidents even if they aren’t your fault

Where are you located? You may want to consider moving closer to a good city for trucking. As of right now, the top trucking cities include Atlanta, GA, Charlotte, NC, and Columbus, OH. Other cities in the top 10 trucking locations include Dallas, TX, and Nashville, TN, so those are good places to look.

You can turn to load boards or freight boards online. They allow freight brokers to post loads for drivers to bid on. It’s a good way to get started, but the loads are extremely competitive, and it looks better to have a long term relationship on your resume.

Try to build a good relationship with a shipper. To do that, act like you care, clean yourself up to look and act professional while picking up and delivering loads. Call the shipper to check in with them, deliver loads on time, drive responsibly, keep your truck clean, and more.

As an owner operator, you can lease yourself to a carrier. The carrier will find freight for you, provide dispatches, handle the paperwork, and more, in exchange for getting to use you and your vehicle. However, the carrier also will get to keep an agreed upon percentage of the load.

Get to Truckin’

If you feel the call of the road why not start trucking? The trucking industry is growing and is always looking for qualified drivers as a result. As long as your driving record is clean and you can pass the certification tests why not enjoy the freedom of having a trucking career?

For more trucking tips visit ExpressTruckTax.com and please share your tips about where to find a trucking job in the comment section below.

Why The Economy Needs Truckers

Have you ever noticed that truckers are proud of what they do? They’re the proudest people out of any other industry, and that’s because what they do is extremely important. Without their hard work and long hours the economy could collapse, so if you don’t appreciate trucking, here is why you should.

Why The Economy Needs Truckers

There are over 8.7 million trucking-related jobs in the US today. That’s a lot of jobs. Some of these jobs include driving and others include dispatchers, fleet owners, owner operators, and more. Without this booming industry, where would all of these workers go for employment?

Trucking jobs give those in the trucking related industry paychecks, and they use those paychecks to buy things, which in turn boosts the economy. Maybe you own a lamp store, because of truckers not only are lamps delivered to your store, but the people in the trucking industry can also buy one of your lamps.

While more and more people are going to college these days, sometimes getting a degree or two isn’t an option for everyone. Trucking can provide an upper-middle-class salary for those without degrees, giving them an opportunity to earn more for a better quality of living.

There are small communities based in rural areas that actually depend on truckers traveling through them to survive. Drivers buy gas, food, pay for lodging, and more. Their dollar can really help independent businesses like cafes in small towns stay in operation.

Do you like being able to go out and buy stuff? Then thank a trucker! Truckers move more materials than planes, trains, and even boats. If fact over $7 billion dollars worth of goods is transported by truckers.

Truckers are responsible for moving a lot of stuff from waste, healthcare related items, food, refrigerated items, clothes, manufactured items, and more. They move raw materials like cotton to the factory to be made into shirts, then they move those shirts to retail stores. Do you want a shirt to celebrate your favorite football team winning the SuperBowl? Then you need a trucker to haul the raw materials and finished product for you.

When you see a trucker on the road you may try to guess what they’re hauling, but unless you can clearly see the animals in agricultural trailers or logs on logging trucks then there is just no way to be sure. They could be hauling skittles, fresh milk, a sailboat, fair rides, a chemical used in ink, or more. The possibilities are literally endless.

Truckers may be on the road, but they’re also responsible for keeping the road nice. Certain taxes like IFTA or International Fuel Tax Agreement and the HVUT or Heavy Vehicle Use Tax are applied to qualifying heavy vehicles. These taxes are then used to maintain and repair public roadways. It doesn’t matter if you’re in a big pickup truck or little convertible, you have a truck driver to thank for the smooth pavement and safe bridges that you drive on.

We Need Truckers

Truckers are responsible for moving more cargo than you think. Unless you bought something handmade from a local craft show then chances are that everything around you was on a truck at some point!

For more trucking tips visit ExpressTruckTax.com and please share your thoughts about the importance of truckers in the comment section below.

Owner Operators Need To Budget

Trucking is a hard industry to break into. Many drivers attempt to make it big and bring in a lot more money by becoming owner operators, but they fail for various different reasons. Sometimes they just don’t put in enough time, sometimes business is just slow. However, the number one reason new owner operators fail is because they either can’t budget or just don’t try to. Learn from our budgeting tips to help you save money to keep your owner operating business going.

How Owner Operators Budget Properly

We understand that budgeting is hard. It takes some self-control and discipline. When the money is there it’s fun and addicting to spend, but if you spend it all you could find yourself up the creek without a paddle pretty quickly.

One of the most expensive things drivers face on the road is food. You may not realize it, but fast food lunches, snacks, and dinners at sit down restaurants add up quick. Before you go out on the road buy your snacks in bulk, also plan ahead by bringing meals to store in your fridge, microwave or cook in a crockpot.

By cooking your own meals and having your snacks on hand you’ll save money and you won’t have to stop every time you get hungry. Plus, the meals you prepare are often much healthier options.

Another expense that adds up is the cost of lodging. Every time you stay in a motel you’re spending money that you don’t have to. By getting a mattress, a nice bedding set, and some blackout curtains you can turn your sleeper cab into a space that’s even more comfortable than a hotel.

Nothing is exciting like a semi truck is. When guys are starting out they want the coolest rig to barrel down the road in. You can get that super awesome new truck one day, but consider starting off in an older rig, or leasing a truck when you first get started in order to have lower monthly payments and sometimes even a lower insurance payment.

Depending on your client there could be a 1 to 3-month wait before you get paid for a load. You could consider using a factoring company to get paid the same day. With factoring companies, you’ll make an agreement where the factoring company pays your invoice from a client. They’ll pay you a percentage of the invoice the same day and then your client will pay the factoring company and the factoring company will keep an agreed upon percentage, then you’ll receive the rest. It’s a way to get money faster, but you’ll get a little less as a result, so budget it wisely.

When the bigger paychecks start to roll in, save them. A lot of guys go out and start to buy fun stuff

for their families and take vacations instead of saving their money. Then when business is slow or their truck needs a major repair they’re out of luck and their business goes under. Trust us, you always need to keep an emergency fund.

We have tips to save your gas because it’s actually your number one expense. First of all, slow down. Actually going to speed limit, or staying at 65 mph will save you tons of fuel. Also, gradually speed up and slow down, to avoid slamming on brakes. Stick to the interstate when you can, unless you need to avoid traffic jams and rush hours. Also, you can save a lot of fuel by cutting down on your warm up, cool down, and idling time.

Take care of your truck. Don’t get lazy and skip out on routine maintenance. Be sure to change the oil, filters, rotate the tires, and more to keep your truck in tip-top shape. The goal is to get every penny you can out of it to avoid the major expenses of having to buy a new truck or pay for a repair.

You Can Become A Budgeting Pro

By studying your books and keeping track of your profit and loss record you can easily give yourself a budget and start to really save money. It does take a little practice at first, but soon saving money will become second nature to you, and your business will reward you later for it. Nothing saves the day like an emergency fund to help you cover your bills and keep your business afloat.

For more trucking tips visit ExpressTruckTax.com and please share your tips about budgeting in the comment section below.

Use Factoring To Get Paid The Same Day

The trucking industry can be hard to break into. You need a good cash flow to get your business started and to keep it going. Just because you’ve established yourself as an owner-operator doesn’t mean that you won’t face slow periods where you need a little extra cash flow to get by. Now, this doesn’t mean give up, it simply means consider the option of factoring to get cash fast for your business.

Factoring

Factoring can be the solution to helping you manage your cash flow for your company because it helps you get cash fast because factoring is an advance on accounts receivable.

Basically factoring companies give you a cash advance by paying you for the invoices on loads that you’ve already delivered. Usually, once you deliver a load you won’t get paid for it until 30 to 90 days later, so factoring cuts that time out by paying you the same day.

Drivers and owner-operators tend to turn to factoring as a way to keep their business afloat or to get their business started for a variety of reasons. For example, factoring could be the best option to get paid the same day when drivers can’t cover their bills, when they have a major fuel invoice, or need to pay their drivers. Different companies have varying amounts of time on when drivers actually get paid, and factoring will help drivers get paid the same day instead of waiting.

When you’re just starting out and want lease a new truck factoring can provide the cash that you need to cover business-related purchases in order to get your owner operating business going.

Before you get paid you will negotiate an agreement with the factoring company. The money you get upfront will be a percentage of the amount the load your client owes you. In the factoring agreement, your customer will pay the factoring company for the load you delivered and the factoring company will keep an agreed upon percentage, then you’ll receive the rest.

Our Top Factoring Companies

Here at ExpressTruckTax we pride ourselves in providing quality service and helping truckers out in any way we can, that’s why we’re telling you about two trusted, and outstanding factoring companies that you can turn to for cash advances.

Since 1994 TCI Capital has been helping those in the trucking industry and more get the cash they need on the same day instead of waiting for it. TCI has experienced and knowledgeable representatives to help serve clients with even the most unique funding needs.

Also, TCI offers the credit history and payment trends of potential clients to help companies take on new customers with confidence, and provides online reporting to keep you informed about your transactions at all times.

FleetOne has 28 years of experience in trucking finance and will work hard to get you funding within 24 hours. By providing credit checks and offering an experienced support team to answer all of your questions, FleetOne makes the factoring process quick and simple.

The FleetOne mobile app can be used to make factoring even easier, by providing you with the ability to take a picture of invoices, documents, and more to instantly scan and upload to your FleetOne account. The app also keeps all of your documents and transactions in one convenient location.

ExpressTruckTax is Here To Help

If you have any questions about factoring or about what we can do to help you e-file your HVUT and accurately calculate your IFTA totals please don’t hesitate to contact our dedicated support team at ExpressTruckTax via live chat, phone, or email.

DIY Hacks To Make Your Sleeper Cab Feel Like Home

DIY Hacks for Sleeper Cabs

We’ve all felt it. The lonely feeling of the open road. While we’re addicted to driving for miles and miles sometimes we do get a little homesick. Sometimes it’s hard to be away from your spouse, children, and pets. However, somehow you have to fight through feeling homesick to make your drops in time. One easy step you can take towards not feeling homesick is to make your cab feel like home.

DIY Hacks To Make Your Cab Feel Like Home

You spend a lot of time in your cab, sometimes you spend more time in there than you do at home, so make it a comfy place to be.

In order to do that invest in at least one awesome seat cover. The seat cover can be heated and it can come with built-in massagers, making it the perfect place to lean back in relax in after hours of driving.

Make sure your mattress in your cab is a high-quality one. Not getting adequate rest on the road could leave you cranky and just wanting to head home. You don’t have to come with the factory issued cardboard mattress that came with your truck, especially if you got your truck used. Instead, consider your memory foam and gel mattress options.

You know what comes with a comfortable bed? Comfortable bedding! If you’ll be spending a lot of the nights on the road don’t settle for cheap sheets and blankets. Spring for the softer materials with higher thread counts. Heck, you could even treat yourself to an electric blanket to be warm and cozy.

To get a proper night’s rest you’ll have to block the world out. Invest in some blackout curtains to get rid of all the lights from tracking and truck stops. Also, consider getting some earplugs to block out some of the noise that traffic and rest stops produce.

It’s important to fill your cab with a few of your favorite things in order to boost your mood. This can be done by adding pops of your favorite colors around. From crimson red to sprinkle blue, whatever color is your favorite will work.

You can add your favorite color by getting a steering wheel cover, seat covers, rubber mats, a rug, a bedding set with multiple of your favorite colors, and more. The possibilities are endless, all you have to do is look around your cab to see what you can customize.

Be sure to put up posters you like and to put up a few of your favorite pictures. Seeing photos of your family and pets or posters of your favorite superheroes can really boost your mood.

It’s always good to be able to do more things in your truck, and the first step towards powering more electronics is getting a good power inverter. Then you can set up awesome things like a flat screen tv and your favorite gaming console.

Nights won’t feel so long and boring when you can watch your favorite movie on Netflix or play multiplayer games online with your kids back home. Also, you can bring a lamp for extra light in your cab at night.

Why stop every time you’re hungry or thirsty when you can stock your cab to be your own personal mini kitchen? You can have your own mini coffee maker to brew coffee anytime you want. If you don’t want to deal with coffee grounds consider getting a K-Cup machine.

For more food options you can place a microwave, mini-fridge, and freezer in your cab. This way you can bring more food items with you on your trips that can easily be stored and heated up.

Did you know that you could even bring along a hot plate to boil water? Sometimes nothing is better than a hot bowl of ramen!

You can complete your kitchen with a TV tray or fold out shelf or table to balance meals or your laptop on.

This item should never mix with kitchen items, but are you tired of walking across cold parking lots to wait in a long bathroom line? Then get your own portable toilet to bring along on the road with you. Just make sure it has a lid that you can seal tight to prevent spills.

If you want to bring something with you on the road like extra clothes and tools then bring them with you. Just invest in storage bins and organization items to maximize your storage areas.

Enjoy Your Home On The Road

Your truck is sometimes your office and can be the area where you spend most of your time. Be sure to customize your cab to fit your personal preferences to have a comfortable and cozy space when you’re missing home.

For more trucking tips visit ExpressTruckTax.com and please share how you make your cab cozy in the comment section below.