Buying my first truck in Dec - feeling little overwhelmed by options

Discussion in 'Ask An Owner Operator' started by OneCosmicGuy, Nov 2, 2014.

  1. OneCosmicGuy

    OneCosmicGuy Bobtail Member

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    When I was with them before, they "only" took 27% as far as I know. We rented a trailer. That might be the difference? I think if we didn't, then the % was higher. We did the math. In our case, renting @ $185/wk was better.... Unless I'm misinterpreting what you're referring too?
     
  2. OneCosmicGuy

    OneCosmicGuy Bobtail Member

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    I'm definitely weighing the pros and cons of that. Part of the reason for keeping $10k in reserve. Is there a "best" time to buy a used truck? End of year inventory blow out?
     
  3. OneCosmicGuy

    OneCosmicGuy Bobtail Member

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    LOL Yeah, I'm not out to impress anyone. I typically spend very little time at TSs anyway - just fueling, generally. :)
     
    FLATBED Thanks this.
  4. OneCosmicGuy

    OneCosmicGuy Bobtail Member

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    I kind of assumed that, but I hate to assume. I meant to include that in my OP. Thank you. :)
     
  5. OneCosmicGuy

    OneCosmicGuy Bobtail Member

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    Thank you for the details and the suggestions. Very helpful, and yes, Landstar does require all new drivers to use electronic logs which affects which trucks you can bring.

    Your comment about finding a good shop... That's probably a whole new thread lol
     
  6. fortycalglock

    fortycalglock Road Train Member

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    That is the correct split for platform, 73/27 with your own trailer or renting one from them. You can not rent one, and get 65%, but it only takes $2300 in revenue to break even paying rent.
     
  7. jzcartage

    jzcartage Bobtail Member

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    Curious has anyone bought a brand new truck off the lot? Was curious what kind of terms do they give? Meaning how many years is the note for etc? I know most places only offer 3 year notes for used trucks. At least thats what I have seen shopping around. Was thinking maybe of just buying brand new if the monthly payment is affordable?
     
  8. nuvagrad

    nuvagrad Bobtail Member

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    Brand new off the lot expect to put down $15,000 at least if your credit is not that great. What trucks are you looking at?
     
  9. abcdef

    abcdef Bobtail Member

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    Simple moths:30000 truck,1500 tarps,1000 equipments, two weeks fuel 2000,register and tax 1500,and food, toll,how many left? 3500?Not enough money for shop.30000 truck can easily go to shop in winter time. even you run in winter, the damage fee will let you pay in the future.one of my friend bought a 30000 truck, he spent 57000 this year in the shop.his ex- girl friend paid the bill.and he need re-build his engine soon.
    40000 in the bank is much better.
     
  10. OneCosmicGuy

    OneCosmicGuy Bobtail Member

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    Was kinda wondering that too. I could do $15k down. Credit is just under 700 and climbing. Just wondering if that's a smart way to go or better to wait till I have routine established.