Cost per mile

One of the best posts I've seen on this topic in a while. Clearly understands ALL hidden costs of doing business.....and the guy isn't even in the trucking business. Coincidence?

 

I'm not saying you're wrong an there are many guys that think this way but, IMO you are not looking at this as a business. You are operating more like the above example of the brick mason that works out of his pickup truck. Not that there is anything wrong with that BUT, what happens if, for some reason you have to come out of the truck and hire a driver for a while? You can't do it because your rates with your customers are too low. You will lose all your contracts and you won't have an income.

By all means, look for efficiency but IMO it is dangerous to bank on free labor.

 

I don't know about ALL, but I hope I have Most of my ducks in a row, lol. I have been working with a friend in Atlanta prepare a business plan to start a fairly significant trucking operation. We are in the process of securing all the associated authority stuff, and negotiating with the bank. This has been my first dealing with a commercial lender since the crash of 08, and its not a pleasant experience. I think they will be taking blood samples next, lol.

 

Anyone wanting to go into business should do a few things to HELP make sure they are starting out on the right path.

People tend to be less than truthful about their earnings and expenses, so take free info with a grain of salt. Not that truckers would lie or anything, lol. Find a 'successful' O/O in your area and ask him who does his accounting. Zero in on a CPA who has several trucker's accounts and make an appointment. Just call their office and say you want some help developing your business plan. Most CPA's will see this as a nice change of pace, since they usually have to fix the mess after the fact. Go in with your figures. They will know if you are on of way off. That would be the best $75 anyone could spend.

Plan for the worst, and hope for the best. My experience in business and the best thought out business plans is that things are not going to go your way all the time. You have to have some 'fluff' in your plan to overcome the shortcomings.

 

Sure a lot to consider for sure. I have mine at .80Fixed/.30Varible. Like hearing everyone opinions for sure. Thanks for info.

 

I have been working on a computer program for truckers for a few years on and off. My brother is a trucker but hasn't been much help. I let any one who wants use it free while it is being developed. I am not trying to advertise here - it is free. What I need are experienced truck drivers to get the software - use it - and tell me what they like or dislike and help me get it finished so I can offer it on the market. When I say offer it on the market I mean dirt cheap because I have money. I don't need this - I want to do it. My plan is to offer it for $25/year. The web site is www.EzTrucker.net. You can download and install it and be up and running quick. There are email capabilities if you need help. Thanks.

 

You post a lot when are you gonna get that truck on the road so we can see how it turns out for ya?

 

When I get your permission? LOL