Working for an O/O

Whether it's the law or not, if you're paid on a percentage of gross you should see evidence in the form of a rate con or invoice. Make sure you're clear on accessorials. Most of the questions in your OP you need to ask him.

Check his authority and CSA report to see what kind of operator he is. Reefer cargo will have you on a 24 hour clock. HOS violations should be a big warning flag. Even if that's not at issue, you will have to have the discipline to sleep when you need to be sleeping. Ask for references and check them. At some point you're either going to be satisfied enough to take the leap or not.

 

Being a former O/O the owner allows me to run the truck as I want with respect to his desires. Is very open and honest with rates and will even ask me what I think and takes my input even if it is not utilized he still respects my views. Pays promptly and I know before the load everything about it, pay rate and most brokers email me the confirmation or he does, very above board with all money.

Also working for a O/O you must be 200% honest even if you screw up, no if's and's or buts about it. You must be savvy and purchase fuel or other expenses as he desires. Remember every penny you waste may come back to haunt you but do not cut corners. Balancing act.

Most of all be his face to all customers, you represent him or her. Make a good example and leave the customer happy if you can.

 

ya know i think this is the hardest thing for people is to be completely honest all the time no matter what even if you mess up. hell i messed up and had a boo boo the other day and was completely honest to my dm and i work for a mega carrier

 

While it isn't a law, if you work on percentage you should be able to check the rate information. I always prefer to put everything down in writing. It helps to avoid misunderstandings, especially when a driver works on percentage. Any agreement should outline the responsibilities of both parties.

 

Sometimes I think management has no idea how to deal with honest employees. They seem to be accustomed to people lying all the time and have come to expect it from employees. Could be because they are forced to partake in daily lying in their work activities so it becomes their normal. They often view you as stupid for not lying. They have called me blatantly honest. I just say your either honest or you're not and leave out the gray area.

 

i honestly would of felt bad for not being honest and i partially ripped my bumper off so i couldnt lie anyways. i figure if i mess up and am honest about it and get fired then fine i messed up bad but if i mess up and lie about it then i am a bad person. i was raised to well to lie about things

 

He does really well, I would say top pay for Florida and even elsewhere. He hauls specialized and the money he makes can't be compared to what you may or may not make. Besides, nobody really will talk money. Or at least they shouldn't...

Where in FL are you?

 

A mistake or incident is just that, no point in over complicating the matter by lying in my book. When we are working hard the occasional mistake will happen. If no mistakes are ever made you are most likely slacking.

 

Agreed, and keeping a ledger is a must.