If you’re an owner-operator in the dump trucking industry, taxes can feel overwhelming — but knowing what you can deduct can save you thousands of dollars each year. At 326 Trucking, we want to help you keep more of your hard-earned money, so here’s a guide to the most common tax deductions for independent drivers.
As an owner-operator, you’re essentially a small business owner. That means:
You pay self-employment taxes
You’re responsible for tracking expenses
You can reduce your taxable income with qualified business deductions
Every dollar you deduct lowers your tax bill — and sometimes even increases your refund.
If you financed your truck or trailer, the interest portion of your loan payment is deductible. (Not the principal, just the interest.)
Your truck is considered a business asset. The IRS allows you to depreciate its value over time or use Section 179 for larger up-front deductions. Talk to your tax pro for the best strategy.
Fuel is often your biggest expense — and it’s 100% deductible. The same goes for:
Oil changes
Tires
Brake jobs
Minor and major repairs
Washes to keep your truck plant-ready
Your liability, cargo, and physical damage insurance costs are fully deductible. Don’t forget about bobtail insurance if you have it.
Anything required to operate legally:
CDL renewals
DOT registration
Permits for overweight or oversize loads
Plant access fees
Every toll booth and every CAT scale ticket adds up — and yes, they’re deductible.
If you’re away from your tax home for work, the IRS allows a per diem deduction for meals. Check the current rates each year.
If you use your phone for dispatch, navigation, and customer communication, you can deduct the business portion of your bill.
Even if your “office” is the cab of your truck:
Logbooks
Notebooks
Pens
Business software like load tracking apps or bookkeeping tools
Tax preparer, accountant, or legal fees? All deductible if they relate to your trucking business.
The easiest way to miss deductions is to forget about them. Use:
A dedicated business bank account
Expense tracking apps or spreadsheets
Save all receipts digitally (scan or snap photos)
Personal expenses (Netflix, groceries, family vacations)
Clothing (unless it’s branded safety gear)
Fines or penalties (like overweight tickets)
We can’t file your taxes, but we can make your life easier by providing:
Clear settlement statements
Accurate route and load details
Weekly payment consistency to help you plan ahead
If you’re thinking about getting into aggregate hauling, we’d love to talk. Whether you already have a truck and trailer or you’re just now exploring the idea, we’re happy to walk you through it.
Reach out to us at trucks@326trucking.com
Or check out our Owner Operator Onboarding Info Page