Let’s say you buy a $50,000 truck for cash....

Im not an OO but When first Starting out it might be a good Idea to sign your truck up with a company pulling their trailer and their loads? As for the truck its going to be hard to find a 1999 (paper logs) or older at a decent price thats not worn out. So, If you have to buy an emissions truck it might be best to consider one that has a 2010 engine or newer. Just my opinion!

 

Might be best to take semi retired's advice!

 

Recently there was a thread with a guy crunching the numbers between driver and O/o. He figured he'd gross more O/o. But after all expenses/repairs...etc. In 5 years it was a virtual tie for net income.

 

you can pay a lot less in taxes though if you have a good accountant and basic knowledge of the system

 

What kind of freight do you want to pull?

 

It's not as easy as it sounds, to begin with the take a month off here and there hurts the accounts receivable side for the next 2 months while you're still sending money out.

 

O/O is a classic, "one step forward, and 2 steps back" deal. You never get ahead, or just when you do, WHAM, bolt in the steer tire,,it was so nice to park the truck, and let the boss worry about it.

 

Very true. And there is a reason company drivers get limited time off. Because that’s what it takes to be profitable beyond just paying yourself. (For the most part unless you have some special situation)

 

Most shippers want some sort of consistency and choose their broker or carriers accordingly. a true owner operator with authority needs to provide consistent performance on a regular basis.

Successful carriers rely on consistent performance from their drivers and lease operators.

Part time, as the OP described goes against what is needed to even have a chance to be successful with their own truck.

I've seen a guy who bought truck and tank hauling spring water to is father in law's dairy store company. Did quite well UNTIL the divorce. Had a 'pet' job then had a truck and old tanker for sale.

If OP could find such a gig; it wouldn't be part time.

I can't begin to describe how many co-workers over the years were ex. owners of companies, etc. working through personal disruptions because of their 'work ethic' and 'sense of urgency' to provide the best service possible.

Part time doesn't fit.

OP, nothing personal just 43 years in trucking, companies big and small, good and bad in a business where your best friend will cut your throat to get your business.

 

Buy an R V ,