I think I might have been misunderstood when I said that I'd call the owner about certain loads........someone commented on not wanting drivers to call 24/7.
We were basically trusted to make the best decision on the load offers. We would contact the owner only if one was quetionable. After all, he had over 20 yrs. OTR experience as an O/O that we could draw from.
The only time we'd call questioning a move was when we had been sitting for a day and no prospects for a load (sitting in a bad area, etc)and couldn't get dispatch to move us....The owner would get the company on the horn and persuade them a little...
As far as getting home at who's expense, the owner wanted us out for 3 weeks, then "work" our way home. He wanted the truck home so he could "go over it" mechanically and fix what needed to be fixed.
Just because the 3 weeks were up didn't mean we made a beeline for the house. Dispatch would work with us heading us in the right direction. One time we did have to come home for some scheduled appoitments....we paid for the fuel, no problems.
The owner paid for the fuel and ALL truck expenses......anything to do with the truck the owner took care of, no questions asked. We religiously kept track of mileage for oil changes, etc while on the road. Had the truck washed at least once a week (owners request) paid by the owner. It's a trust between owner and driver that is built up over time.
We didn't take advantage of anything, only idled when needed....basically depending on the weather. Used IdleAir when ever possible. And by not taking advantage of the owner he'd pay for tolls etc.....even offered a motel room at his expense once in awhile to just kick back, relaxe and get out of that truck!!
Again, thanks for all the responses........I understand the 60/40 vs 40/60 split a little better........but still think the later is better for us......
Ya'll have a great day!!!!!