Excellent post by Nightwind and comments by others.

The only thing I would add is about DOT and MC numbers when operating "intrastate" (within one state only).

My operating authority is for South Carolina only. I tried to get a DOT number and an MC number, but because South Carolina does NOT require either for intrastate operation, the US DOT would not issue either one to me.

So all I have on my doors is my company name and below that my city and state. No DOT numbers, no MC numbers, and of cousrse no IFTA sticker.

I look suspicious even to me.

And no apportioned tag, which must be fairly uncommon in SC since I have to explain several times at the DMV each time I renew it... "yes, a tag for 80,000 pound class... No, not an apportioned tag... Yes, I'll wait right here while you check into it..." (repeat for next person) and, eventually, $800 later I have a shiny new tag.

In comparison, just across the state line in Georgia, everybody has a DOT number, intrastate or interstate, because Georgia requires it.

i have been calling ins. co. getting some (trying to get some quote's) and just about everyone require's 2 year exp.

i will have 1year when i planned to go O/O.

now i have had to re think my plan and i'm looking at leasing my tractor to a CO. w/out a 2 year requirement


the one broker i did find to give me a full quote, A.K.A. shady deal, but he explained it to me COST 14K YEAR.....WHOAAAAAAA

so...lets say your "home base" is in ma and i brougt freight to ny... would you have to redgester the truck in ny?

try progressive insurance.

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Never Limit Yourself To What Other People Perceive Your Limitations To Be…

Nightwind, first I have to thank you for taking time and sharing your knowledge with us, and I would like to ask you something because I'm looking for a good advice, I'm waiting for all my authority permits, I have my truck and some savings but I don't know if I'm better off buying a trailer or do a lease? just to start without giving big down payments and saving a little money for expenses, thank you again.

Nightwind,Thanks for taking your time to post this info....very helpful
[quote=NightWind;278363]
I'll put up an Excel spread sheet that you can see the numbers on later this week when I edit it to reflect the current fuel cost.

Nightwind, did you ever post that spread sheet? If so, where could I find it?

Thanks.

Are there any services that help owner-operators with getting customers and doing all the paperwork so I can just focus on driving and keeping my rig in good condition?

Yes, but it would be a lease.

Dear Nighwind:

I will eventually start my own company later this year, but right now I am chilling until I get ready to go back on the road. Will Non-Trucking insureance allow me to take my truck out on the road legally to the shop, and other places as long as I am not hauling a load. I used to run under someone elses authority, so this is a new issue for me. Any suggestions for a good Ins. Provider for this type service?

Thanks. The info is good

Nightwind, you have posted a great deal of good info for people thinking about getting their own authority. I have been looking for some general figures as to how much it would take to run under ones own authority and you have provided the best info I have been able to locate on any trucking board.
I have a question that I know would be very difficult to answer, but I am only asking in general terms for I know everyone's situation will differ.
After investing a substantial amount of money to get started and having three to six months worth of operating expenses set aside, what could a person expect to make on average per month.
I know different types of freight pay more than others, I am contemplating refer or possibly food grade tanker. And I stress the word contemplating, I am only considering things at this time.
Thanks for all the great info