Invoice templates for owner-operator and subcontract truckers covering subcontract haulage, per-mile rates, and load-by-load invoicing.
An independent trucker (owner-operator) invoice records fees charged to a haulage company, freight broker, or direct shipper for completing a transport load. Independent owner-operators typically own or lease their own HGV and take loads on a subcontract basis from logistics companies or via load boards. UK owner-operators must hold a valid O-licence for their vehicle category (standard national or standard international) and their HGV must meet DVSA roadworthiness standards. Independent truckers are usually paid per load, per pallet, per mile, or on a day rate for dedicated contracts. Rates are negotiated per load on spot market or under a framework rate with a regular client. Diesel costs, road tolls, and maintenance are the operator's own cost, which must be factored into the rate charged. Professional invoicing is essential for HMRC compliance and demonstrates self-employed status.
| Service | Typical Rate | Unit |
|---|---|---|
| Subcontract load (FTL, UK domestic) | 650 | load |
| Owner-operator day rate (dedicated contract) | 380 | day |
| Rate per mile (point-to-point haulage) | 1.8 | mile |
| Waiting / detention time (per hour) | 35 | hour |
| Out-of-hours surcharge (weekend / bank holiday) | 100 | load |
| Return load / empty running | 200 | trip |
| Tail-lift service surcharge | 40 | load |
Owner-operators should invoice weekly, covering all loads completed in the week. Reference each load or booking number clearly — the client's accounts payable team needs this to match your invoice against their despatch records. For one-off spot loads, invoice on delivery or the following day. Net 7 or Net 14 is appropriate for spot market work. Larger haulage companies may push for Net 30 — if cash flow is tight, consider factoring (invoice discounting) to improve liquidity. Always issue a proper VAT-compliant invoice even if you are not VAT-registered — include your name, address, date, and amount. This is a legal requirement and protects you in any payment dispute.