Looking for some local work

Chry65 · Feb 11, 2005

Hello out there. I really enjoy this forum and the abundance of information. I am thinking of getting into the business of expediting and was wondering if anyone out there knows of some Detroit area companies that do alot of local runs. I am thinking of purchasing a cargo van right now. It may sound weird, but I am not looking to become rich doing this. I know by reading the threads on here that this type of life is not easy and that being on the road for long periods of time is what makes the money. My wife is the main provider in the family (good job in the medical field and carries our medical insurance), hence, a large income is not what I am after. I have my wife's support on this and would really like to make a go of it. Being out a night or two per week would not be a problem. Is there any such companies in the Detroit area that services local type runs that take on owner/ops? Any advice would be greatly appreciated. Be safe out there folks!!
Chry65

Pappy · Feb 11, 2005

I'm about to be new too. I read somewhere in here about someone else that kind of wanted local work also. If my memory serves me correctly, someone advised them to look for "Freight Forwarders" in their area.To me that sounds logical anyway Look in your yellow pages, then make some calls Sorry I ca'nt be of more help. Best of Luck with your venture

woobergoober · Feb 11, 2005

Hello,

Detroit is a good area for Expediters. I have had 3 different trucking jobs all within the Detroit area, within the past 5 years. I can tell you who I know of who do lots of work in the local area: First Class Expediting (Rochester Hills), HELP (Flint) and I see lots of ASAP trucks driving around, but never talked with any of the drivers. I worked for First Class for about a year, but I have to be honest and tell you, local is so much more demanding than going "long haul." Lots of long hours and the pay is not good, as compared to being paid by the mile. You can make a living, but I could not, with the bills and financial obligations I have. The guys I knew who did good locally, were the older guys with a truck that was paid off, and did it more for something to do, than to support a family. I had alot of days driving in to Detroit, do one local run for about 60 or 70 dollars, wait around for 6 or 8 hours hoping that it would pick up, then go home in the evening bummed out, thinking "if I knew it would be dead today, I would have gone home 8 hours ago." If you are serious about getting a job, drop me an email and I can give you some info about the company I am working for currently. I am out, usually no more than 3 days at a time, and home ALOT of weekends. The company I contract for is smaller than many, but they have a tremendously intelligent business philosophy. Less work for more money! Anyways, let me know, and I hope this helps a little.

Scott

Chry65 · Feb 12, 2005

Thanks Pappy and Woobergoober. Any info. is much appreciated.
Scott, I did email you. Yes, I would be very interested in any company info. you could pass along. I am very eager to contact them.
Just out of curiousity, Pappy, what is the function of a "Freight Forwarder". I did do some research and found there are many in the Detroit area. Thank you again.
Chry65