Amazon Relay for Box Trucks: Complete Guide
Amazon Relay isn't just for 53-foot trailers. Box truck carriers — especially those running 24' to 26' straight trucks — can access a growing segment of Amazon's last-mile and middle-mile freight. Here's everything you need to know about running box trucks on Amazon Relay in 2026.
$2.85/mi
Avg Box Truck Rate
24'–26'
Typical Truck Size
100–300 mi
Typical Load Range
Same Day
Payment Speed
O Trucking Editorial Team
Trucking Industry Experts
Fact-Checked by O Trucking Dispatch Team
5+ years dispatching box truck and last-mile freight
Sources:
This article was written by the O Trucking editorial team with 9+ years of combined trucking industry experience. Learn more about us.
O TruckingAmazon Relay for Box Trucks: Requirements, Pay & How to Start (2026)
Can You Use a Box Truck on Amazon Relay?
Yes. Amazon Relay accepts box truck carriers for specific load types. Amazon's freight network includes middle-mile transfers between fulfillment centers and last-mile deliveries to delivery stations. Many of these routes are ideally suited for box trucks rather than full tractor-trailers.
Box truck loads on Amazon Relay tend to be shorter distances (50–300 miles), lighter weight, and focused on metro-area transfers. This makes them attractive for box truck operators who want consistent, no-negotiation freight without the overhead of long-haul operations.
Box Truck Requirements for Amazon Relay
Amazon has specific equipment requirements for box truck carriers:
Truck Size
24-foot or 26-foot box truck with roll-up rear door. Liftgate preferred but not always required.
Truck Age
Generally 2015 or newer. Must be clean, presentable, and mechanically sound.
GVWR
Most Amazon box truck loads require Class 6 or 7 trucks (19,501–33,000 lbs GVWR).
Insurance
Minimum $1 million auto liability. Cargo insurance of $100,000. Workers' comp as required by state.
Authority
Active MC authority or DOT number, depending on load type. Must pass FMCSA safety screening.
Technology
Smartphone with Amazon Relay app. ELD if over 10,001 lbs GVWR (most box trucks).
For complete carrier requirements including authority and insurance details, see our Amazon Relay requirements guide.
Box Truck Pay on Amazon Relay
Box truck rates on Amazon Relay vary by lane, distance, and time of day. Here are typical 2026 rates:
| Load Type | Distance | Rate Range | Per Mile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Metro Transfer | 10–50 mi | $75–$175 | $3.00–$5.00 |
| Middle-Mile Short | 50–150 mi | $175–$400 | $2.50–$3.25 |
| Middle-Mile Long | 150–300 mi | $400–$750 | $2.50–$2.85 |
| Surge / Priority | Varies | +25–50% | $3.50–$6.00+ |
Maximize Box Truck Earnings
Types of Box Truck Loads on Amazon Relay
Amazon uses box trucks for three main freight categories:
Delivery Station Transfers
Moving sorted packages from sortation centers to delivery stations. Short distances, time-sensitive, multiple daily runs.
FC-to-FC Transfers
Moving inventory between fulfillment centers. Medium distances, moderate weight, predictable scheduling.
Returns Processing
Hauling customer returns from collection points to processing centers. Lower urgency, flexible timing.
Box Truck vs Tractor-Trailer on Amazon Relay
Here's how the two options compare for Amazon Relay carriers:
| Factor | Box Truck | Tractor-Trailer |
|---|---|---|
| Startup Cost | $30K–$60K | $80K–$150K+ |
| Insurance Cost | $8K–$15K/yr | $12K–$25K/yr |
| CDL Required? | Not if under 26,001 lbs | Yes (CDL-A) |
| Typical Distance | 50–300 miles | 100–600+ miles |
| Per-Mile Rate | $2.50–$5.00 | $2.00–$3.50 |
| Load Availability | Metro areas | Nationwide |
CDL Requirement
Tips for Box Truck Success on Amazon Relay
Maintain a High Performance Score
Amazon's algorithm favors carriers with high on-time delivery and acceptance rates. A strong performance score unlocks premium loads. See our performance score guide for optimization tips.
Focus on Metro Clusters
The best box truck earnings come from high-frequency, short-distance metro runs. Position yourself near Amazon fulfillment center clusters (DFW, Atlanta, Chicago, LA).
Stack Multiple Daily Loads
Unlike tractor-trailer runs, box truck loads are short enough to complete 2–4 per day. Volume makes up for lower individual load revenue.
Keep Your Truck Presentable
Amazon occasionally inspects carrier equipment. A clean, well-maintained truck avoids deactivation issues.
Track Your True Costs
Box trucks average 8–12 MPG versus 5–7 for semis. Your lower fuel cost per mile is a competitive advantage — but maintenance costs can be higher per mile on older trucks.
Related Amazon Relay Guides
Need Help Finding Box Truck Loads?
Our dispatch team helps box truck carriers find consistent, high-paying freight — including Amazon Relay, last-mile, and metro delivery loads.