Retiring railroader here looking to buy a truck

This is probably what I'll end up doing to start.

 

I wish I could just sit back and fish but I have to do something or I'll probably just end up drinking all day lol. I plan to do this for ten years then call er done.

 

I did it. Never drove a truck in my life, besides test driving. Bought a truck and trailer.

Got my authority May 12th, and was hauling freight the first week of June.

I'm doing flatbed and have enjoyed it so far.

 

Where were you trained how to do load securment?
Do you figure it out as you go?

 

Pretty much figured it out as I went, but watched several YouTube videos. Called some old customers who pull flats when I had questions.

 

If you're sure you do it right, I am honestly impressed. I'd be always weary that something might be too loose and wobbling. I see those flatbeders loosing bags of onions or mulch all the time...
I guess, worrying about securement is the major deterrent for many folks who would want to try it, after, of course, some physical stamina to be able to throw a strap across the trailer and tighten the straps. On the other hand, I've seen petite women do it too. Lol.
You went straight to a more advanced level freight in a very good time. Good for you.

 

So far, I think I've done ok. Haven't had any major issues with securment. Everything has stayed good and secure, and I'm constantly stopping to double check it.

My tarping skills leave a lot to be desired, I need a lot of work there.

Took my first load ever, 48k of fancy rocks, to Taos, NM. Unfortunately, I never thought there might be truck route to Taos, so I went straight over the mountain.

I've got a lot to learn yet, I know.

 

Well I've been looking at several 10 car haulers and found a really clean rust free 2007 Peterbilt with Boydstun trailer for $70k with 200k on an inframe and 900k total miles. Guy bought it new and is buying a new truck and has tons of maintenance receipts for it. It's about $20k more than I was hoping to pay. I have about $65k available that's why I wanted to stay below $50k. Decisions...

 

What is your exit strategy in a worst case scenario? You need a plan if things go south in a big way. A line in the sand so to speak.

 

My insurance agent said driving record was the only factor, didn't matter whether it was commercial or personal, at least for the companies he writes policies for.

I have business policies, and insured multiple business vehicles, but not anything over a 10k GVW.

I had no problem insuring my truck and trailer, and don't think the rates are terrible. My trailer is new, so I've got comp and collision on it, liability only on the truck, which I'm sure helped keep rates lower.