Trucking Bookkeeping for Owner-Operators – Tips for Solo Drivers
As an owner-operator, you’re responsible for more than just deliveries. You’re the driver, dispatcher, manager, and bookkeeper. But when finances fall behind, your entire business is at risk. This guide shows how solo truckers can stay financially organized without the hassle.
Download Our Free Brochure →Why Bookkeeping Matters for Owner-Operators
- Helps track net profit per load or mile
- Maximizes tax deductions for fuel, maintenance, and travel
- Keeps records organized for IFTA, IRS, and FMCSA audits
- Enables better business decisions on routes, rates, and costs
You don’t need to become an accountant-but you do need a system.
What You Should Be Tracking (Daily/Weekly)
1. Load Income
- Rate confirmations, settlement sheets
- Accessorial pay (layovers, detention, fuel surcharge)
2. Fuel Receipts & Mileage Logs
- Track gallons by state for IFTA compliance
- Use your ELD or app to log miles per trip
3. Repairs and Maintenance
- Keep all receipts, even oil changes and small repairs
- Track by truck ID if you lease or own more than one unit
4. Tolls, Permits, and Scales
- Use digital tools or apps to log and organize daily toll/scale activity
5. Food, Lodging, and Travel
- Either use the IRS per diem or track actual receipts—both are deductible
6. Lease or Loan Payments
- Break down truck payments into principal and interest for proper expense allocation
Real Owner-Operator Example
A one-truck OTR driver signed up for our monthly bookkeeping. In the first 90 days:
Download Our Free Brochure →- We helped claim $14,000 in legitimate deductions
- Automated his fuel and settlement reconciliation
- Delivered a clean, audit-ready P&L every month
IRS & DOT Compliance
Owner-operators should retain:
- 3+ years of fuel, toll, and tax records
- Proof of deductible expenses
- Income logs and bank deposit reconciliation
We help you avoid penalties and keep everything filed cleanly and on time.
Tired of scrambling at tax time?
Our trucking bookkeeping service helps owner-operators stay compliant and profitable.
Trucking Bookkeeping Services – States
Trucking Bookkeeping Services – Key ZIP Codes
FAQs
Do you handle all my bookkeeping if I drive solo?
Yes. We manage everything-fuel, settlements, expenses, even QuickBooks setup if needed.
Can I upload receipts from my phone?
Yes. We support photo uploads, PDFs, and use client portals for easy document collection.
What if I’m behind several months or years?
We offer catch-up services for truckers and will get you back on track.
You keep the wheels turning-we’ll keep your books clean.
