Cargo Vans, Not that type!

Hi Truckintim80 –
I live in Buffalo, NY and I currently am an owner operator with a local expedited package operation. I run an E350 Ford extended. It’s an ok gig if you can get on with the right company and get the right miles. (if Fed X operated four wheeler O/O here I would look toward them based on what I know about the company). I don’t drive a regular route (our company has them) but I handle time critical deliveries, usually stuff that needs to be up and off in less than 90 minutes. The money isn’t bad, close to $44,000 a year after operating expenses, except that as an owner operator there is zero benefits.

Health Insurance – I pay a freakin ugly bill for that every month!
Dental Insurance – yea right!?!
Retirement savings plan – IRA is ok but having a company match even a part your input into a 401k is a huge bonus.
Paid vacation – what’s that????
Paid holiday – that really happens?!?

I was getting a few long distance runs that required a straight truck last spring. I’d rent a nonCDL truck from Ryder or Penskie and after all was said and done I came out making some really good money. Just as I was about to go with a long term lease on a truck last summer the work dried up.

I really enjoyed running the longer distance stuff in the straight truck. There was just something about being out on the road. Right now I’m rehabbing some recent surgery and once the doc clears me for regular duty (I’m on light duty now) I’m looking to a career in a real truck! Even starting at $35,000 a year with benefits and minus all the headaches that go along with being a little O/O I’ll be a much happier man.

 

How's life on the road in a cargo van? I am considering driving one for an expediting company. Where do you sleep? How does the 12 volt thing work? Can I have a TV, a laptop, and a cooler running in the van? Also where's the best place to find coolers, laptop stands, ect? Thanks so much.

 

I was wondering, from a guy who has been doing this to a guy who is looking at starting up, are there any good load boards out there with this kind of freight? Also, Do you have to register with IRP and IFTA and follow DOT regs.?

 

Hi I just wanted to know if you need a cdl for a cargo van, also what about the dot phycial is one requried for van drivers?

i want to drive as an o/o as a van... I would then like to buy a couple more vans as a fleet owner.. that is if things work out, can any one help me out? with some infor?

thank you.

 

Most companies want you to have a CDL and Physical card

 

Thank you, wow if I have to get all that, then i should just go head, and drive the big trucks.

 

I think most expediting require a CDL class B, to drive the straight trucks, no CDL required for c/v, but still recommended. Class B is usually a much shorter class than going for class A, which is needed for the big rigs.


Someone correct me if I'm wrong (usually am) but thats how I understood it.