Is this possible for a new driver? - Please Help

Hi all,

Let me start by giving a little background. Im 22 years old, will be 23 in April, and am currently in a CDL class. I should have my CDL by early to middle February (hopefully tanker/doubles endorsement soon after). It should also be noted that I have a perfect driving record, and no criminal record. I also have experience with large machinery (see bellow).

I work on a grain farm with my father, and hopefully one day I will take over the farm. Until then, I need to find a second career to make more money especially as I am getting married at the end of this year and wanting to start a family eventually. Tell me if I'm dreaming but this is what Im looking for..

I'm trying to find trucking jobs that are local dedicated runs (preferably home every night/other night -the future wife would not want me gone weeks at a time). Heres the kicker.. I also would need time off in the spring/fall for the times when the farm operations really ramp up. In total, it would be about 2 1/2 - 3 months a year I would need off. I know that I need to be looking for a smaller operation, possibly even hauling grain/livestock for other farmers. Can anyone point me in the right direction of where to start my search as far as types of trucking companies, or even specific companies around my location (Kankakee,IL)?

Thanks in advance for any/all advice,


Kevin

 

Thanks for the replies so far guys. That's pretty much what I was thinking about becoming an owner operator. My father has a day cab early 2000 international. Assuming I could get a flatbed for a reasonable price, I could do like Wooly rhinos said and fund some loads to run in the off times.

RiskyBusiness, I'm actually a good hour and 20 minutes away from the city if there is no traffic.. which doesn't happen. I dont think I could make that work.

Look forward to hearing any other ideas

Kevin

 

I was doing some more research, and came across drive away companies. These are companies that take vehicles and deliver them wherever they need to go.

there are some companies that also do this for cdl vehicles. I came across Mamo incorporated.
Does anyone else have any information regarding these kinds of companies, and how well you can do driving for them? If so, do you guys have any suggestions as to what companies to contact?

Kevin

 

Thanks Ridgewood for the reply.

I'm interested in the temp agency idea your talking about. Can you explain exactly what it is you do/how to get in with a company like that? What is your life like on the road? Sorry, being a newbie I'm really ignorant to the whole trucking world. I really appreciate everyone's time.

Thanks

Kevin