Leaving current job to become car hauler

Just had a friend buy a car-hauler and tractor for car hauling. After about 3 weeks he's hanging up the gloves. He needed to be home every week and figured that as an O/O it would work. He's been with JB Hunt as an O/O for years now and he couldn't make it work.

Just FYI....

 

I have talked to a few car haulers over the years. I don't know about booking the cars to haul, or any of the that stuff. But the one common thread they all spoke of was the need to meticulously document absolutely every microscopic scratch or blemish. Even on wrecked/repairables. Damage claims will break you in car hauling. I don't know if this is something you already know......just thought of share.

 

you are super busy in the fall winter slow in the summer. At least that's what I was told by a business owner

 

My brother is a car hauler with 5 trucks in NJ and is busy as hell, does work in NJ, NY, PA, has private and corporate accounts, started with one truck 3 years ago.

 

Congratulations on taking the first step. Once it's in your blood it's hard to get out. There's going to be a desire to build speed like other drivers. Be careful not to let that desire cause damages. The main goal should be to load and unload damage free. Speed will come over time. Don't be a tie-down bar chaser. You need to minimize your walking because that costs a lot of time. I leave my bar by my controls. Watch how other drivers do it and ask questions. Don't expect too much out of yourself in the beginning or compare yourself to drivers that have been doing this for ages. They started out just like you. My company gives us $3000 Bank for damages. Whatever is left at the end of the year is yours to keep. Great incentive. Damage free year means $3000 goes in your pocket. Wear a fishing hat with a flap in the back that covers your neck in the summer. It will save your butt. Drink lots of water and don't go to a yard without it.