Owner operator is it worth it?

Discussion in 'Ask An Owner Operator' started by Lightning 74, Mar 18, 2018.

  1. Lightning 74

    Lightning 74 Bobtail Member

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    Mar 18, 2018
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    I have an opportunity to buy a 2005 Freightliner Classic XL it has a rebuilt cat c15 with twin turbos I've been driving the truck for almost a year now. The owner will go through the entire truck and replace all hoses belts brakes tires etc... The truck has 150 gallon tanks on it it has no def . The owner is offering it to me for 25000$ no interest and no balloon payment at the end.. I am on a dedicated run at the moment I get home every other day and I do a reset at the house on Saturday and Sunday. If I buy the truck I will have to go back on the road.
    I make decent money now.. and don't have to pay for nothing. Is it worth it??
     
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  3. DieselDrivinDaddy

    DieselDrivinDaddy Light Load Member

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    Feb 13, 2016
    Poconos, PA
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    Yes it is worth it for some people to become an O/O. Others not so much.

    This sounds like more of a lease purchase through your current employer. My main concern there is if something goes south and they starve you for loads. If you don’t have the authority or ability to obtain work elsewhere, you’ll be in a bad situation.

    If you buy a truck out right, you retain the ability to lease your truck on to whichever company will take you and your truck. This gives you a safety net should it not work out with your current company.

    Whether you decide to go this route or not, make sure you’re properly funded prior to making the leap.
    I believe that’s the #1 mistake most prospective O/Os make.

    I personally wouldn’t be comfortable running my own truck without at least $10-15k in emergency repair funds and another $10-20k in available credit should it be necessary. That could still be gone in a day given the perfect disaster.

    I hope it works out for you because it’s a good feeling to be making money on your own with a truck you’re proud of.
     
  4. Ridgeline

    Ridgeline Road Train Member

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    Dec 18, 2011
    Michigan
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    It is worth it if you keep the dedicated route for yourself.
     
  5. BoyWander

    BoyWander Road Train Member

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    Michigan
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    Tell him you'll buy the truck, but you stay on the dedicated account and he pays you $800/day, no insurance charge back, no trailer rental.

    If you buy that truck, he will make a ton off you OTR and pay you diddly squat.
     
  6. kw550cat

    kw550cat Medium Load Member

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    May 22, 2012
    brooklyn, new york
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    Why can’t you lease it and stay on the dedicated run?
     
    Bean Jr. Thanks this.
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