As far as who's paying, those who don't understand, I'll explain:
Say a mill dictates the rates to carriers. The mill is paying the carriers to haul to the mills customers. Mill says $2.50/mi or suck it.
So Acme products needs some more material and has a relationship with Billy Bigrigger. Acme calls the mill and places order and says they'll pick it up with their own truck. Billy gets the job for $3.50/mi from Acme.
I really shouldn't have to explain that you sorry bunch of...