Hauling Containers A Good Job for Newbies?

I must have missed that. Union people care about money, that's about it.

 

if you own it, don't take to many 20ft on triaxle you'll mileage will suffer and VERY important make sure you line up to the can with the doors to the rear
seen too many drivers lock'em down and haul ### only to come back crying "It's the M.F. loaders fault!"

 

been hauling containers 15+ yrs, as a company driver, if your paid honestly, yes it's good work for a rookie. BUT, your a rookie, tuck your sack and drive like grandma, don't get ####y and think your cool, a container will bite you. 20's are the hardest to back, they are also generally more likely to be top heavy or loaded screwy and most likely to roll. 45's and 53's are the most stable. ALWAYS, ALWAYS, ALWAYS check your twist locks (load securement) it's a $57 fine, and in some states a 2 pt violation on your license with no plea bargain. DOT loves containers, and are quick to stop you and quick to check you. Retreads are common, failing retreads are common.

 

I ran containers for 2 years out of the Port of Tampa. Most of the container haulers were Owner Operators; however, a few would hire a driver to run their second/third truck. I worked for one of these for the first year, then he sold the truck to me.

Hauling containers is a unique experience, but if you can get hired on, you will learn a LOT, and quickly. The 20' containers often go on little short chassis that aren't much longer than the container itself is and they do react quickly! You do have to pay attention when you pick up a chassis, as they are often horrid (poor tires, lights don't work, brakes won't release) and you will need to carry a 3' long (or so) cheater pipe to help open/close stubborn container doors. Saltwater does awful things to the hinges.

Don't let the racial thing bother you. Container haulers come from all over the place, but I found them to be very nice folks, and they were very friendly to me. They are like anyone else. If you treat them with courtesy, you get courteous treatment back.

 

Looking into buying a truck and pulling containers. Any good companies to look into signing on with as an o/o in FL?

 

Why would you even post that?? I'm a white guy and never had a problem

I've run Norfolk, Savannah, Wilmington, Jacksonville, Charleston, and Miami ports. I have NEVER run into a situation where I felt I was profiled or treated differently..........

 

I think I answered you in another thread but here it is again


If I was you I'd look into Bridge Terminal Transport (BTT), First Coast Logistics, and Atlantic Intermodal Services.

If you'd consider running Savannah ports ASF Intermodal is getting a pretty good reputation!!

 

Comtrak has terminals in Jacksonville/Perry/Titusville.

 

Personally I dont think anyone cares about your complexion. Can you get the job done is the real question. In the end the only color that matters is green!