The shipping and freight forwarding industry faces a unique set of financial challenges - from customs duties and international tax treaties to fleet depreciation and multi-state fuel tax compliance. Our CPA team specializes in helping logistics companies navigate these complexities and optimize their tax position, serving companies across all 50 states.
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Expert CPAs ready to help you save on shipping & freight taxes.
Maximize deductions on trucks, trailers, containers, and warehouse equipment using accelerated depreciation methods
Navigate customs duties, foreign tax credits, transfer pricing, and cross-border transaction reporting
Properly claim fuel tax deductions and manage International Fuel Tax Agreement (IFTA) quarterly filing compliance
Manage tax filing obligations across multiple states where your fleet operates and your warehouses are located
Comprehensive tax preparation for freight forwarders, trucking companies, shipping brokers, and 3PL providers with proper revenue recognition across complex multi-leg shipments
Strategic depreciation of trucks, trailers, forklifts, containers, and warehouse infrastructure using Section 179, bonus depreciation, and MACRS schedules
Proper accounting for customs duties, tariffs, foreign tax credits, and cross-border transactions to ensure compliance and minimize double taxation
Payroll management for company drivers, per diem tracking, independent contractor (owner-operator) 1099 compliance, and DOT-mandated benefit administration
Track revenue by lane, manage fuel costs, monitor fleet maintenance expenses, and maintain clean books for shipping operations with high transaction volumes
Quarterly IFTA filing, fuel tax credit calculations, and management of state-by-state fuel use reporting to ensure compliance and maximize available credits
Schedule a free call to discuss your shipping or freight business, fleet size, and tax concerns with an experienced CPA.
We analyze your fleet assets, fuel costs, revenue streams, customs obligations, and current tax structure to identify savings.
Our CPAs build a customized tax strategy covering fleet depreciation, fuel credits, entity structuring, and international tax planning.
We provide year-round support with quarterly IFTA filings, proactive tax planning, and preparation of all required returns.
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Shipping and trucking companies can deduct fuel costs, vehicle maintenance and repairs, insurance premiums, driver wages and per diem, tolls, parking, truck lease payments, warehouse rent, cargo insurance, licensing and permit fees, GPS and fleet tracking systems, and professional services. Fleet owners can also claim significant depreciation on trucks and trailers. We ensure every eligible deduction is captured and properly documented.
Customs duties paid on imported goods are generally deductible as a cost of goods sold or business expense. However, the timing and classification of these deductions matters. For freight forwarders handling international shipments, proper accounting of duties, tariffs, and broker fees is essential. We also help you navigate Foreign Trade Zone benefits, duty drawback programs, and foreign tax credit opportunities that can significantly reduce your overall tax burden.
The International Fuel Tax Agreement (IFTA) requires commercial motor carriers operating in multiple jurisdictions to file quarterly fuel tax reports. Each state where you operate has different fuel tax rates, and IFTA reconciles the taxes you've already paid at the pump with what you owe based on miles driven in each state. Accurate mileage and fuel purchase records are critical. We handle your quarterly IFTA filings and ensure you're not overpaying fuel taxes in any jurisdiction.
This is one of the most critical compliance issues in the shipping industry. Misclassifying drivers can result in back taxes, penalties, and lawsuits. The IRS and DOL examine factors like who controls the work schedule, who provides the equipment, and the nature of the relationship. We help you structure your owner-operator agreements properly, ensure correct 1099 filing, and advise on the tax implications of each classification approach for your business.
Fleet vehicles have specific depreciation rules. Heavy trucks (over 6,000 lbs GVWR) qualify for Section 179 expensing and bonus depreciation, potentially allowing you to deduct the full purchase price in the first year. For larger fleets, we develop multi-year depreciation strategies that balance immediate tax savings with long-term planning. We also advise on the tax implications of leasing vs. buying, and time vehicle acquisitions for maximum benefit.
Schedule your free consultation today. No obligation, no pressure - just honest answers from a licensed CPA who understands the logistics industry.