🔢 How We Work

Methodology & Calculation Accuracy

Every QuicklyFig calculator is built on documented sources and published formulas. This page explains how we build, verify, and maintain our tools — and what the numbers actually mean.

Our Core Principles

1. Show your work

Every calculator includes a "How we calculate this" section that shows the exact formula, default assumptions, and data sources. If a number is based on an industry average, we say so. If it is based on a government-published rate, we cite it.

2. Estimates are estimates

QuicklyFig calculators produce estimates for planning and decision-making. They are not substitutes for professional advice, official tax filings, legal documents, or binding contracts. Always verify results before making financial decisions, purchasing materials, accepting loads, or filing taxes.

3. Update when sources change

We review calculators when underlying data changes — IRS mileage rates, DOE diesel prices, FMCSA fees, state fuel tax tables. Each page shows a "Last updated" date. If you notice outdated data, email us at hello@quicklyfig.com.

⚠️ Important Disclaimer

All results on QuicklyFig are estimates for planning purposes only. They do not constitute tax advice, legal advice, financial advice, or professional engineering guidance. Verify all results with qualified professionals before making significant financial decisions, filing official documents, or accepting binding contracts.

Data Sources by Category

IRS Publications

Standard mileage rates, SE tax calculation, business expense rules. Rideshare and logistics calculators.

DOE Energy Information Administration

Weekly diesel and gasoline prices. Fuel surcharge and fuel cost calculators.

FMCSA

Broker authority filing fees, IFTA requirements, MC number costs. Trucking startup calculators.

IFTA Inc.

State diesel tax rates for all 48 IFTA jurisdictions. Updated periodically.

ATBS (owner-operator accounting)

Cost-per-mile benchmarks, operating expense ranges. Logistics financial calculators.

NMFC / National Motor Freight

Freight class density thresholds. Freight class calculator.

Paint Manufacturer Specs

Coverage rates per gallon (350 sq ft standard, 400 sq ft premium). Paint calculator.

HUD / CFPB

30% housing affordability guideline. Rent affordability calculator.

What "Estimate" Means in Practice

Different calculators have different accuracy levels depending on the type of data they use:

High accuracy (fixed formulas): Unit converters (cm to inches, lbs to kg), square footage, cubic feet. These produce exact results.
Good accuracy (published rates): IFTA fuel tax, IRS mileage deduction, quarterly self-employment tax. Based on published government rates — accurate when rates are current.
Planning estimates (industry averages): Insurance costs, maintenance per mile, factoring rates, startup costs. Based on industry benchmarks — your actual numbers will vary.
Rough estimates (market-dependent): Load profitability, broker margins, rate comparisons. Highly dependent on current market conditions and your specific situation.

Every calculator page indicates which type of estimate it produces in the disclaimer section.

Found an error?

If a formula looks wrong, a rate is outdated, or a result doesn't make sense, please tell us. We take accuracy seriously and fix reported errors promptly.

📧 Report an error — hello@quicklyfig.com