Being new to expediting I have a 3 part question for you experienced types. As a single driver and based on the following, a) fuel costs, b) H.O.S, c) rate of pay @mile, and d) demand, which do you feel is more productive, Van or Str Trk? As far as Str Trks are concerned is there a demand for larger trucks, ie, with tag axle or duel axle? and last, lease option (o/o) or driver? Thanks!
New to expediting
- Thread starter byjhwe
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At 15-22 mpg a van has the lowest cost per mile, but typically the fewest miles.
Vans don't log except with hazmat load so HOS isn't a concern; if the van had to log, HOS still wouldn't be a serious concern because of the abundance of vans and the non-abundance of van freight.
The rate of pay for vans can be great, depending on the carrier's lease terms, but that same carrier will pay quite a bit more for straight trucks and tractors.
Straight trucks/semi's are, by far, the greatest in demand, have the best productivity and the best return of investime of time and money.
Vans don't log except with hazmat load so HOS isn't a concern; if the van had to log, HOS still wouldn't be a serious concern because of the abundance of vans and the non-abundance of van freight.
The rate of pay for vans can be great, depending on the carrier's lease terms, but that same carrier will pay quite a bit more for straight trucks and tractors.
Straight trucks/semi's are, by far, the greatest in demand, have the best productivity and the best return of investime of time and money.
I've talked to a van driver who, if telling the truth, did about 2000 miles in 3 days. I know for a fact he did at least half of that because he picked up a skid from me when I ran out of hours and the next day I saw him as he was headed the other direction with another load. The same guy also talked about a terrible 175 mile week so the only thing certain is inconsistency. I think the largest percentage would say the order of choice would be D, C, B/E. Go back through at least the last year of posts in the newbies, truck and general forums and you'll find a wealth of discussion on this. Good luck.
Leo Bricker, 73's K5LDB, OOIDA 677319
Owner, Panther trucks 5507, 5508, 5509
Highway Watch Participant, Truckerbuddy
EO Forum Moderator
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Support the entire Constitution, not just the parts you like.
Leo Bricker, 73's K5LDB, OOIDA 677319
Owner, Panther trucks 5507, 5508, 5509
Highway Watch Participant, Truckerbuddy
EO Forum Moderator
----------
Support the entire Constitution, not just the parts you like.
I can testify to the serious "feast or famine" swings in van freight. This year has been the worst in that department. This spring I had a week I where I did nothing. Last month I had a week that was probably a record at well over 3k.