Chassis Cab and non-CDL

Discussion in 'Expediter and Hot Shot Trucking Forum' started by sabal_logistics, Apr 23, 2020.

  1. sabal_logistics

    sabal_logistics Bobtail Member

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    And so the reason I am here. I was hoping someone here had been through this. I called state DOT and they weren't sure. It is frustrating for sure.
    I feel like you may be correct in that a chassis cab may be classified differently just because it is a chassis cab.
    I wish I could find an answer to this because buying something is out of the question until i do.

    Thanks.
     
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  3. longhaultransport

    longhaultransport Light Load Member

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    Also, no tinted front windows, and you do need a medical card.

    You also need DOT inspection and must stop at weigh stations.

    Concerning the bed, I'm sure you don't need one, but if you are not going to be over 65 feet, why not have one? Lot's of stuff to carry with you and the bed is a nice storage area.
     
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  4. sabal_logistics

    sabal_logistics Bobtail Member

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  5. sabal_logistics

    sabal_logistics Bobtail Member

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    Well, I'm going with chassis cab (84" C/A) so i can put a sleeper on there. I know the argument for just retrofitting the backseat in a crew cab and I'm still considering but the sleeper gives me room and comes with AC/Heat without idling.
    I know I sound like an idiot to all you guys out there doing this for real. I just want to start out on the best foot I can. Of course, any pointers into the huge mistakes I am making would be well received :).

    Thanks to all who replied.
     
  6. longhaultransport

    longhaultransport Light Load Member

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    What is the weight difference between the bed and the sleeper?

    Depending on the empty weight of the trailer you are already limited to around 9 or 10 thousand pounds payload.
     
  7. longhaultransport

    longhaultransport Light Load Member

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    You are going to need a custom made hitch because the current production hitches are made for pick up rails and the cab chassis trucks are different,

    Also, the engines are de-tuned on C/A's
     
  8. sabal_logistics

    sabal_logistics Bobtail Member

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    You are right on what I can haul after all is said and done (life of a non-CDL):
    Truck actual weight estimated is 7700 (listed is 7100)
    Sleeper with supporting parts will add 950-1050 pounds
    After install, estimating 8700 total weight on truck
    Trailer comes in at 7500
    Tools, chains, straps, etc I would estimate 500
    Total vehicle is 16,700
    Haul capacity 9300
     
  9. clausland

    clausland Road Train Member

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    My two cents, if I may.

    With a crew cab you're gonna likely be close to the 65' limit pulling a 40' goose. Make sure you tape it nose to tail because the DOT man will.

    These types of setups draw the man's attention, that's just the way it is. Make sure all your ducks are in a row, as ignorance aint gonna fly once you're stopped.

    You don't need a sleeper, unless you're >6', it'll just add weight and detract from your already limited payload.

    Leave the bed on if you can, extra room for storage and it'll be cheaper on NY's HUT rate (>18k), if you run there. Taking off the bed will classify it as a truck-tractor costing you more in tax.

    Lastly, good luck, not a good time to get started right now, unless you got a sure fire direct haul lined up...
     
  10. sabal_logistics

    sabal_logistics Bobtail Member

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    Your two cents is priceless to me.

    1. So, what do you think about the idea that trucking, even though it's down right now, is a relatively sound way to make money because trucking is an essential industry during this time? If someone gets laid off and can jump right into hotshotting, can they survive vs unemployment, etc? Is this a completely naive idea?

    Wow, this post really took a turn from starting off as a vehicle question :)
     
  11. clausland

    clausland Road Train Member

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    Kinda hard to specifically answer your question, as I don't know what type of operation are you looking at doing.

    My first question is have you looked into how much your insurance is gonna cost you? Assuming you have a truck/trailer already paid off, after fuel, insurance is a big cost.

    Secondly, have you already got a steady direct haul lined up, or are you hoping to find loads on a load board? Right now, spot freight rates have tanked. Too many trucks for too few loads. So, being new, you would have a very difficult, if not impossible time being successful. A couple months from now, we all hope it picks back up, but right now it's real bad.

    Thirdly, if you're planning on running the spot market (load boards) your GWVR will also limit what you can haul. In so much as I applaud your ambition, as I like seeing the little guy succeed, I'd recommend doing more research before dumping a lot of money into this endeavor. Learn & know what you're getting yourself into. You gotta know what your CPM is (cost per mile). Too many make the mistake of getting a truck and then hope to get work = very bad idea. Not trying to be a naysayer, but trying to save you a lotta grief.

    There's a fellow on here, @singlescrewshaker that can add more to help you than I can...
     
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