Advice on finally becoming an owner operator

No, I do not suggest becoming an owner op, certainly not right now. There is just too much mayhem and unpredictability in the industry, after you fork out all of your start up expenses you'll still need to have a nice chunk of dough in your account for things that are going to happen, while the house bills keep on coming. Not sure if you can get a subscription to a load board without an MC number, but if you could see how bad the rates are, that alone might be enough to deter you. The industry still needs to puke out so many of it's bad seeds before it gets better, if that ever even happens. Guys running for fuel money, double brokering, truck stop demolition derbys, I can't think of one good reason why someone should become an o/o right now.
Several good threads on this site too talking about the state of things as well. Invest your money elsewhere. You'll most likely get a better return with a lemonade stand right now.

 

Sure go for it. You will either make it or lose it all. Welcome to the real world!

 

If after 20 years in the industry, shouldn't you already know the answer?

If not maybe staying where you are at is the best thing.