Zig: A Sprinter is a van. Van freight in the expedited freight community is two 4'x'x4' pallets weighing no more than 2500 pounds. A sprinter, unlike a Chevrolet, GMC or Ford van, can carry three skids, but generally no more weight than another van.
If you are being courted by a recruiter than would like you to buy a Sprinter so that you can carry more skids or weight for van rates, then you will be hauling that extra freight at your expense and contributing to the cheap freight rates than none of us enjoy. If that carrier is willing to pay you a greater rate for carrying more than two skids than the standard van rate for that carrier, then that Sprinter may be a good investment for you.
Consider also, that expedite van operators typically have an adjustable sleeper capability that allows them to sleep with two skids, but must sacrifice the sleeper to carry three skids. If you are carrying three skids over a weekend, you should earn enough extra money to pay for a weekend of hotels.
Not everyone shares my opinion about van freight, so make sure you get several opinions before you commit.
With regards to your earning capability, you'll need to get advice from drivers that lease to the same company that interests you. Solo van owners that want to be home every weekend will not do as well as the flexible driver who follows the freight and gets home when freight gets hime nearby. Think $40-$80,000 depending on driving habits, selective load acceptance, carrier and your availability for freight, and experience.
Terry
