Looking to become owner operator.

Ok I will take a swing at it.

If the truck you are buying is not pre-registered in the NJ/NY port system, I believe you have to start with a 2012 or newer truck. We all know the issues that come with them.

Idk on your experience in the ports but here are a few things to consider.

You will need a twic and sealink card.

There will be some very long hours and lines getting in and out of the port. Doing pier work will beat up your truck.

You will need bobtail insurance and your own tags (sometimes you can get these through the company).

Here are some additional expenses that will come up,
Fuel, maintenance, tires, taxes, tolls, workers comp ins, escrow, truck parking, chassis etc.

A positive or two, there is mostly always work, and you can probably run where you want. Super local shuttles, local(in state NJ) to regional overnight trips.

Its tough work, but a lot of guys are doing it.

Do some more research, and maybe be a company driver to learn each ports little quirks of getting in and out, because there are many.

Good luck

 

Current rule is 2010 engine year.

Though extended, the grandfathered 96 and 97 trucks die sometime in 2021.

Get with the Feds to get your TWIC card. once you find a carrier to lease, they will line you up for the sealink which is tied to your TWIC so you need to remember your TWIC PIN number!

The carrier needs to get you a RFID tag for gate security/appointment systems,

The carrier will register you and your CDL and TWIC info in IANA so you can get into the railheads too....

You need to select a carrier and with the 'Miss-classification' stuff going on with NJ you may need to form a corporation too....

GOOD LUCK

 

If you don’t know what to do, your not ready yet.

 

I wasn't sure about the year, but I think 2012 will be phased in eventually.

There is just way too many regulations, and things to do, just to put a truck to work in the pier.

 

THIS

 

If you are buying an emissions truck soley for port work you are digging your own grave.

 

The ports are getting harder and harder on this requirement, and sadly, some customers and cities are too.

 

This is true, just not feasible based on the rates. Atleast imo..

 

If you have to get an emissions truck just get it deleted in nj. Or in pa. If it's something you want to do, go for it. I run cans in pa and I dove head first in the game when I got my own truck. It's definitely a headache, but if you have the right people in your corner and do your just do, you can make it. #YOLO