Trucking: flatbed pay, back haul, luck jim

Question
How much to charge by the mile with a flatbed trailer, what is the going rate now.DO you add extra charges when your responsible for your own gas when picking up loads.

Answer
Al, there are too many variables.  It depends on length of haul, specific lanes and direction of haul.  Generally the longer the haul the lower per mile rate.  A local move needs a certain minimum to cover the cost of starting the truck and the likely hood that you will return empty.  A long haul move in lane where there are back hauls readily available will pay much less per mile but with the back haul you should make money on the return.  Fuel is generally covered by a separate fuel surcharge often stated in cents per mile in addition to the base rate.  In some cases a spot or short term rate may be quoted "all in" whicgh would include all fuel surcharges.
Best bet is know your out of pocket costs, add your overhead including profit, and quote accordingly.  Best of luck.
Jim.