The journey begins - purchased a truck.

not really referring to that as much as the trailer deal changing on em and all the other stuff. with mercer its a one stop deal. go to Louisville and boom youre done, its all there in one spot, no quallcomm, just plug in to data port for the elog and run it off smartphone or tablet. just an easier start

 

The trailer deal is news to me. It's always been the way previous stated, although the price per week has gone up as trailer prices have gone up over the decades. I have no experience with the Qualcomm junk thankfully, but I believe if he brings his truck to orientation he can get it installed there. We have a choice though if we don't want to bring the truck to orientation, unlike Mercer. Flatbed securement is only offered in one place, Grand Prairie, TX. Previously it was St Augustine FL. If somebody is signing on in Seattle or CT, that's a heck of a deadhead. If they're signing on with you guys, they HAVE to go to Mercertown correct?

 

Always a bit of "oh by the way" accompanied by a headache.

 

yep, you have to go to Louisville, its the main location. they do the initial truck inspection there(free), drug test there( free), orientation is done there, as is a empty weight, all measurements such as axle spacings, truck length, deck height at 3 places are all done there and put file, they order permits they got it all on file. you can get anything you need right there, tarps chains , etc. when ya leave youre in business. actually kind of nice package, you also have a lunch with coordinator to set up parameters and put a face with the voice on the phone.

 

Blair, why do you have to redo the truck inspection? You went to a LS inspection site, right? Too much time between inspection and orientation? I know they like it within 30 days. If you buy a piece of equipment of another BCO and it hasn't been inspected within 30 days they usually make you get a fresh one. Drug tests are drug tests, you'll take many more.
As far as going to KC, why not bounce to KC after booking a load out of there and have it installed? I'm guessing this would have been easier if you planned to start right away vs pushing your start date back a couple months?

 

Is the Qualcomm the ELD, or are you getting the one to communicate on?

 

May I ask what was your motivation to leave a great paying job at OD to do this?

 

Got a laugh out of the "Eyes Glazing Over"... Ha, I know that feeling, except mine get to bugging out of my head with each heartbeat... You know, when you feel like the top of your head is about to blow off into the wild blue yonder..


Ok back on topic now..