New end dump O/O - Startup advice & feasibility

I would get a nice aluminum full frame and study the bridge law charts to figure out what you want for length.
I personally like a 26’ trailer and long wheelbase truck. It handles well and if I would make some updates to lighten the truck and put aluminum wheels on the trailer I bet i can leagaly scale 24 tons. I can do 23 now. In opinion a frameless will keep you out of anything that pays well.
I also have a beat up steel trailer for demo and big stuff. The good news is having a second trailer doesn’t really cost that much but can open a lot of doors.
As far as how to get bigger jobs…it’s all about who your friends are. I have a couple buddies and we’re all helping each other get bigger jobs by working together just don’t forget that as the new guy it’s a two way deal. Some existing small operations will be dicks and others will be happy to band together.

 

Trux App on your phone may help. I haven't actually used them because I haven't needed to, but they send a lot of notifications for work in my area.

Look at CDOT Projects pages and figure out who the contractors are for projects that look like they'd have work for you. Contact those contractors and let them know you are available.

 

I got a quote from progressive last week for my insurance if I was to get an end dump and it was $7000 a year for truck, trailer, and commercial liability. It's about 1/3 of the cost for the quote I got for running otr with a van and flatbed.

 

Sounds about right…might check with some other companies i have a pretty good setup with nationwide