Starting a One-Truck Log Hauling Business in the Pacific Northwest

[MikePhua]

The Appeal and Reality of Owner-Operator Logging
The idea of owning a log truck and running a small hauling operation is a romantic one—especially in timber-rich regions like southwest Washington. The scenery is stunning, the work is rugged, and the independence is alluring. But beneath that charm lies a business model fraught with financial pressure, seasonal instability, and logistical complexity.
A prospective owner-operator considering a used Kenworth T800 with a Cummins ISX engine faces more than just the purchase price. The truck may be mechanically sound and emissions-friendly (pre-2007, with only EGR), but the real challenge begins after the keys are handed over.
Operational Costs and Hourly Estimates
Initial calculations suggest an operating cost of around $74/hour, factoring in fuel, maintenance, and depreciation. However, this figure excludes indirect expenses that can quickly erode margins:

• Commercial insurance premiums
  
• Licensing and registration fees
  
• Fuel sourcing and bulk discounts
  
• Trailer acquisition (a good used mule train or pup trailer can cost $30,000–$50,000)
  
• Driver compensation (profit-sharing vs. hourly wage)
  

Wear and tear on log trucks is significantly higher than on dump trucks. Tires, brakes, and suspension components degrade faster due to the terrain and load dynamics. Grease consumption is higher, and daily maintenance is non-negotiable.
Finding Work and Staying Loaded
Securing consistent loads is the cornerstone of survival. Timber companies often contract with logging outfits, who in turn subcontract hauling. This hierarchy means the trucker is downstream in the payment chain—and often the last to be paid. Late payments and rate disputes are common.
To improve odds:

• Build relationships with logging crews and mill dispatchers
  
• Target short log contracts with quick-change setups
  
• Offer reliability and flexibility—being available in winter is a major advantage
  
• Consider joining a cooperative or regional hauling network
  

Rates vary widely depending on distance, terrain, and timber type. A typical short log haul might pay $300–$500 per load, but fuel and maintenance can consume 60–70% of that revenue.
Driver Strategy and Ownership Models
Hiring a friend to drive on a profit-sharing basis may seem appealing, but it introduces risk. If the truck isn’t hauling daily, neither party earns. Many seasoned operators advise driving the truck yourself—at least for the first year—to understand the business and control costs.
Alternatives include:

• Leasing the truck to an established hauler
  
• Partnering with a small logging outfit
  
• Diversifying with a boom truck or gravel setup for off-season work
  

A truck that can switch between log hauling and general freight or equipment transport offers year-round earning potential.
Paperwork, Compliance, and Mental Load
Running a log truck isn’t just about driving. The paperwork is relentless:

• DOT compliance and logbooks
  
• Fuel tax reporting (IFTA)
  
• Maintenance logs and inspection records
  
• Insurance renewals and cargo liability forms
  

Many successful owner-operators rely on spouses or family members to manage the administrative side. Without help, the burden can become overwhelming—especially during peak hauling seasons.
Advice from the Field
Veteran log truck drivers offer sobering but valuable insights:

• “You’ll go broke slower buying everyone a beer than owning a log truck.”
  
• “The guys with yellow iron make money. The guys with trucks survive.”
  
• “If you’re serious, drive for someone else for six months first.”
  
• “Buy a truck that’s already hauling. Don’t start cold.”
  
• “If you can’t haul 30+ tons, you’re not competitive.”
  

These aren’t just opinions—they’re hard-earned truths from decades in the woods.
Conclusion
Owning a log truck in the Pacific Northwest is a high-risk, high-effort venture. The margins are thin, the work is seasonal, and the competition is fierce. But for those with grit, mechanical skill, and a deep love for the timber industry, it can be a rewarding path. Success depends on preparation, adaptability, and relationships—not just horsepower and chrome. If you’re ready to throw chains in the rain and chase loads through the fog, the landing awaits. Just make sure your paperwork is as tight as your tie-downs.