Every crew has one. The trailer that’s always “around here somewhere.” It got dropped at the south job last week, or maybe someone borrowed it for a weekend run, or it’s tucked behind the container yard under a tarp. By the time anyone realizes it’s missing, you’ve already burned half a morning driving around trying to find it.

For many independent contractors, owner/operators, and gig-economy drivers, mileage is one of the most important tax deductions available. The IRS allows you to deduct miles driven for business purposes, but the burden of proof is on you. That means careful recordkeeping, accurate trip logs, and documentation ready in case of an audit.