Greetings! I know ya'll have indulged a newbie with your wealth of knowledge countless times, but I am hoping I can get a few good posts out of you guys and gals!
Here's "my story":
VERY seriously looking to get into the expediting gig and here are my plans:
1997-1999 E2/350: (I have seen several threads suggesting a str8, but not ready for that kinda expenditure and wanna get my feet wet with a Cargo) Was planning on an E250 with a V6, but after researching the typical mileage both get, the V6 only seemed to glean an extra couple of mpg's and thus betting the extra power of the V8 is worth it. I am also planning on having a bunk as well in an extended van.
I "live" in Denver and know the paid trips home will be far and few between but I really have no issues with staying out 4-6 weeks at a time. No commitments on the home front so, why not! I noticed in a post that you need to consider this a lifestyle rather then a job. That seems to really ring true and I think one of the reasons I am so inclined to jump in is to see the country, and if I can now and then take a day or two lay over in NYC or some other place, sounds awesome to me! Also, do any of you guys ever utilize Youth Hostels?
While doing my research, I am leaning towards Panther as the less stringent van requirements and descent pay rate per mile. I am curious though as to the cycles of expediting: What are the last two quarters of the year usually like? Better or worse then the first two? I've seen on various posts that this seems to be an off year for expediting, but historically?
Now when Panther says their avg driver earns 55k per year, (and I know that's avg and there are a lot of factors involved) any ideas on what to expect AFTER expenses? If I am driving with a free and clear van, and lets say my monthly personal bills are minimal, what kinda operating capital should I expect to hit the road with?
What am I forgetting? Any suggestions with my plans for Panther/the E350? Thanks SO MUCH for your insight! Have a great day!
Here's "my story":
VERY seriously looking to get into the expediting gig and here are my plans:
1997-1999 E2/350: (I have seen several threads suggesting a str8, but not ready for that kinda expenditure and wanna get my feet wet with a Cargo) Was planning on an E250 with a V6, but after researching the typical mileage both get, the V6 only seemed to glean an extra couple of mpg's and thus betting the extra power of the V8 is worth it. I am also planning on having a bunk as well in an extended van.
I "live" in Denver and know the paid trips home will be far and few between but I really have no issues with staying out 4-6 weeks at a time. No commitments on the home front so, why not! I noticed in a post that you need to consider this a lifestyle rather then a job. That seems to really ring true and I think one of the reasons I am so inclined to jump in is to see the country, and if I can now and then take a day or two lay over in NYC or some other place, sounds awesome to me! Also, do any of you guys ever utilize Youth Hostels?
While doing my research, I am leaning towards Panther as the less stringent van requirements and descent pay rate per mile. I am curious though as to the cycles of expediting: What are the last two quarters of the year usually like? Better or worse then the first two? I've seen on various posts that this seems to be an off year for expediting, but historically?
Now when Panther says their avg driver earns 55k per year, (and I know that's avg and there are a lot of factors involved) any ideas on what to expect AFTER expenses? If I am driving with a free and clear van, and lets say my monthly personal bills are minimal, what kinda operating capital should I expect to hit the road with?
What am I forgetting? Any suggestions with my plans for Panther/the E350? Thanks SO MUCH for your insight! Have a great day!
