Questions starting trucking

Discussion in 'Questions From New Drivers' started by Lambchops 00x, Jan 9, 2014.

  1. Lambchops 00x

    Lambchops 00x Bobtail Member

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    Jan 8, 2014
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    I have some questions and I am new to the forum so this might not be the correct place to post, So let me know if I need to move this thread.

    I am currently in the US Army stationed at Fort Bragg, NC. I am getting out of the service in April and have an opportunity to haul cars for a local dealership group. I prefer not to name the group because nothing is set in stone, but I am trying to get my ducks in a row and be prepared to take this chance. I am not an idiot and understand the risks involved with trucking as well as any other business. I spent 4 years as an Airborne Ranger, I have a college degree, managed my fathers chemical company for 2 years, and I drove 24 foot freightliner FL-60 box truck for local deliveries before joining the military, not that these things are important but I do have some experience with trucks and some life experience as well, so that being said I am looking for some helpful insight, not looking to get bashed. again I understand the risks associated with trucking. Just figured I should give a little background info.

    here is my opportunity and my questions:

    - The job is moving wholesale cars from dealerships to auto auctions. all local transport between 60-150 miles. consists of about 80-100 cars a month as of now with potential for more.

    questions:

    I am leaning towards going with a 1 ton dually or 5500 series dually with a 3/4 car wedge. my thoughts being that since all transport is local the dually will get slightly better fuel mileage, lower maintenance costs, etc. what are your thoughts on a dually vs a tractor? with a 6/7 car hauler I know the obviouse that with a tractor you can move more cars at once, but being local will the costs outweigh the profits.
    - with a dually do you require all the same documents as with a tractor to start trucking? ie, registered agent, UCR registration, mc number, DOT number, 2290, IFTA account, ETC??? this is my biggest question.
    - does anyone know the average cost for local auto transport either per car or per mile per car.

    that's all I have for right now I might add more as it comes to me. the bottom line on what I am trying to figure out is how to get started legally with the lowest amount of overhead and start up costs. I understand the general business necessities such as structure, name, and financing, I am looking more for information on transportation specific costs and legal needs. This will be based out of the Fayetteville/Raleigh, NC area.

    thanks in advance for all information.
     
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  3. Lambchops 00x

    Lambchops 00x Bobtail Member

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    Jan 8, 2014
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    also what is the lowest licensing requirement for a dually with a 3/4 wedge commercial for hire? if you stay under 26000 lbs?
     
  4. Lambchops 00x

    Lambchops 00x Bobtail Member

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    Jan 8, 2014
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    also any contacts regarding general transport or car hauling in the Fayetteville, NC area who would be willing to help with start up information would be greatly appreciated.
     
  5. johnfarence

    johnfarence Bobtail Member

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    I used to drive a dually for a car auction. i pulled a 3/4 wedge. i had to keep a log and i also had to have a dot number. i got paid per hour, but if you are doing this on your own you can charge per car. also i would reccomend a dodge 4x4 it was a great truck. good luck. i had a class D license which is basically one step below a class a cdl.
     
    Last edited: Jan 9, 2014
  6. Chinatown

    Chinatown Road Train Member

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  7. Semi Crazy

    Semi Crazy Road Train Member

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    One thing most drivers have never been taught: turning key to left shuts off the engine.



    Glad I could help.
     
  8. bender

    bender Road Train Member

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  9. Jokingypsy

    Jokingypsy Medium Load Member

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    Keep in mind if that trailer is over 10,000 lbs you will need a class A license
     
  10. WitchingHour

    WitchingHour Road Train Member

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    That's if the trailer brings the total combined weight rating to an excess of 26,000 lbs., then he will. One ton pickups typically have a GVW in the 13k range for current models, but it's a moot point.
    And welcome, lambchop. Former medic with 1/504.
     
  11. Lambchops 00x

    Lambchops 00x Bobtail Member

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    Jan 8, 2014
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    Thanks for all the pointers guys. Much appreciated. I am with 2/505 right down the street from the 504th. Small world.
     
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