Becoming an Owner Operator

That's not an easy question to answer.It all depends on what you want to haul(trailerwise),what lanes you'd like to run(where you want to go)and how hard and long you want to work.Myself,I like to haul reefer frieght, from N.Y. metro area,down south,Fla.Ga.,SC.,La.,and back to NYC(pays well because a lot of drivers don't like to go there.).I don't like to stay out more than 5 or 6 days.I also prefer no touch or light freight, but in reality you take what you can get and always have plenty of cash for lumpers. Now that's me,I'm sure every driver you talk to you'll get a different answer.Good luck whatever you do and be safe doing it.

 

I would go with a freightliner probably a 2014 as,some def issues have been worked out . fuel mileage is much better compared to a long nose .... Detroit motor. ... that's easier to find people to work on it and cheaper . you can make just as much money with a van if you have any brains than with a flat or reefer . so that's your choice .. I would sign on with landstar or mercer . I am at landstar and plan to stay . but with rates still high you don't want to go to a carrier that pays straight mileage rate unless they are paying over 2 a mile and still would have to think about it. it takes a few months to get good at planning your own loads and what loads not to take . easier to learn with high rates as you can make a few mistakes and still make good money. most people that don't own one or company drivers would tell you to buy a glider not sure if that's the way to go or not . wouldn't suggest a lease purchase from a mega unless you don't mind over paying for a truck and getting underpaid for your miles and being under there thumb . the more money you have the better but you can start out with next to nothing and with luck and discipline be just fine. better than cash reserves is low cost of living at home .... if you're in debt up to your ### and living pay check to pay check that's not going to work out

 

KW T680
Cummins X15 450hp
230 inch wheel base
Endurant 12 speed auto
2.79 gears

Where do you live?

 

Are you a driver?

If not

Become one, learn the industry as much as possible and then ask the questions.

 

Brand new trucks are for large corporate trucking companies for driver's with little experience.

Brand new trucks are not for owner operators

 

I think @Ridgeline is on point. Not all trucking is the same. I’m not being a nay sayer. But these are really questions you have to answer.