Congratulations and welcome to the Stevens Transport family.

After searching OOIDA on this topic, I see it as an expense that could be itemized? I have got questions on the info sent me but it will wait until I email the recruiter.
So far I like the Stevens bragging about their top for mileage for their drivers; their Alliance lease plan which allows a 60 day trial period before getting into a lease, and having feedback early on in the driver's career and their very nice trucks.

 

As far as the per diem, yeah, its an expense that CAN be itemized, but unless you are eating more than $60/day in food, its easier to just claim the per diem they allow you as one item, instead of keeping the receipts and trying to claim what you eat.

As far as the trial on the lease goes, its a qualifying period. You are still a company driver, making company money. They just want to make sure you can run the truck like you need to in order to make the truck payment. During that period, should you choose to go that way, I recommend keeping track of all your paid miles, as company and a contractor, and see which best fits you. Leasing on with Stevens has been great for me from day, it isn't great for everyone. Some make it, some don't. It is a good program, but you have to remain disciplined. I have always told my students to do the same thing I did. Keep track of the miles, do the math for what you would be paid, subtract $900/wk for fixed costs, then subtract all of your fuel you bought. We never pay pump price anywhere, so if you come out close or better on Alliance, then you would make more money leasing, if not, then you might want to stick to the company side. You also have to keep in mind though, the $900 covers truck payment, insurance, fees, etc, so all of that is still due even when you take time off. That means planning ahead on any bills you may have, as well as factoring in which would be more profitable to you, to run company or lease.

 

Yea who wants a worn out truck to be repaired, or rebuilt at the end of a lease.

 

I just don't think Stevens lease is a good one. Unlike most others you will never own the truck at the end of the lease. It is really a rental program. I understand if done right, you will earn more than a company driver but there are better leases out there.

 

It's a lease program, of course you're renting it, that's the definition of lease. It isn't a lease purchase, it's a lease. They are very clear about that. Are there better leases, sure, but that wasn't in question.

 

I wasn't answering any question, I was making the point for new drivers that may not be aware that it is not a lease purchase. I would hope that drivers that have already signed up know it.

 

The advantages of the lease program besides the tax write off is their fuel program. If you watch your fuel it should be lower than most out there as per centage of expense, let's say 20%. Then there is the benefits of limiting your losses from being able to walk away. So I dont know much about any body's lease, but it helped me get my toe in the water and check out how a company and a driver makes their money. I had my best month with Stevens before I finished the year long lease. Pick your poison. Btw, my fuel percentage info is from the excellent atbs company in comparison with other drivers from across the country and various companies.