Almost there. Inches away.

Hi everyone,
It is a pleasure, YES quiet a pleasure to have discovered this site. I am from South Africa, and currently setting up a Freight Management Company, specializing in Road Haulages. My love for trucking was born and nurtured by an uncle who was a truck driver (He is late now, may his soul rest in peace). He used to drive a Freightliner back in the 80s - 90's and would "haul" me up every time he is in town and i'd ride with him. It was from then that i told myself i'm going to own a trucking company! From then, Diesel runs in my veins, i am in love with trucks!!!!
My partners and i will be servicing Southern Africa but of cause, due to cash flow issues (The bank does not finance trucks older than 5years here) we are going the cash purchase route and start up with 1 pre-owned truck. (I have a bias towards Freightliner, i was looking at a 1998 Freightliner with a 350 big cam engine)
I have some extensive knowledge of the industry, all gained through research and interest but have no experience in the industry yet. I will be grateful if we can all contribute pointers that i may need to watch out for and tips to successful trucking. These may include, for instance, which trucks are better suited for the Southern African rough terrain, durability, fuel consumption etc. Even one liner responses will do, knowledge is wealth and i'd be grateful for every piece of info that will add on.
Thanx guys!!!!!!!!!!