Transitioning

Discussion in 'Ask An Owner Operator' started by NoMercy, Nov 30, 2017.

  1. NoMercy

    NoMercy Bobtail Member

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    New to the site,
    Currently transitioning out of the military and ready to get started working civilian logistics/transportation as that’s what I’ve done and know from the military. I’ve done the skill waiver and knowledge exam but wondering if I should join with a company and get experience with the industry and branch out independently after a certain amount of time or is it possible to start off independent doing freight/load boards with SBA and my military experience as a motor vehicle operator? I’m aware it’s a tough business to venture into.
    Any suggestions or advice would help greatly. Thank you in advance.
     
    Last edited: Nov 30, 2017
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  3. PPDCT

    PPDCT Road Train Member

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    Good luck, Battle. There's a wealth of knowledge here, and a lot of good folks who can help. My suggestion is always to do the learning on someone else's dime, whether that's as a future owner-op, dispatcher, or as a broker. Lots of folks jump into the new business venture too quickly, and it stings 'em pretty hard.
     
  4. Michael H

    Michael H Medium Load Member

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    SBA won't touch you until you have 2 years of p&l statements to show them. Catch 22, right?

    VA doesn't fund trucks, but will purchase a computer, printer, and other supplies for the business. Worker retraining program might even pay for business management classes.

    I second getting experience on someone else's dime. Driving the truck, which I know you can do, is the least part of it. The business of trucking is the eye-opener. Especially learning to work with these knucklehead civvies!!!
     
  5. Bodhiknight

    Bodhiknight Bobtail Member

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    Go company 1 year and then. Owner operator all day.
     
  6. NoMercy

    NoMercy Bobtail Member

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    I see mixed reviews on almost every truck company it seems, so I’m guessing it really doesn’t matter to much where to start at. I’ve had a few company’s offer start at top tier in pay for 10+ years, so I guess that’s the route I’ll be looking at.
     
  7. nightgunner

    nightgunner Road Train Member

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    Get a little bit of experience (6 months) with a big carrier and give me a call. I have no problem hooking a brother up.
     
  8. NoMercy

    NoMercy Bobtail Member

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    Appreciate it nightgunner
     
  9. NoMercy

    NoMercy Bobtail Member

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    What are the struggles of going o/o for the first time?
    I’m sure securing loads and time management plays a big part. I’ve already planned if I did to break even or have a shortfall at least my first year. But with money saved and military pension I’ll be able to stay afloat for a bit while learning the ins and outs.
     
  10. driverdriver

    driverdriver Road Train Member

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    Oh geez , this is about something else. Lol
     
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