tring to learn the ropes??

[tweed]

hey everyone, I been reading this forum for awhile and have learned quite a bit.
I recently bought a straight truck. a 2001, 8100 International with a sleeper and a 22 foot bed. I have been driving concrete truck and dump truck for the last 5 years and wanted to try my luck out on the road.
I was going to get my own authority and everything but I was advised not to because I would not be able to get enough loads with a straight truck to make it worth my while. So, I decided to lease on with someone( I dont know who yet) and I was wondering what all I need to get on my truck if I lease on with another company?? I know that I can drive under there authority but I dont know if I still need to get my own Insurance and DOT number or anything else for that matter. my questions are: what all do I need to put on my truck if I lease to someone else??. Is there enough loads going on out there to make any decent money??. will they be able to keep me busy?? what kind of money(per mile) should I be looking for on average?? are there any type of load boards just for expediters?? I know there are for Semi`s but I cant find anything that deals with mainly straight truck ya-know??.
I am new to the road but I`m a good driver with a good record. BUT I am new to the expedite game on the road. any information that could help me get started such as what kinda pittfalls to watch out for and what to expect, and basically how expedite works. I would really appreciate the help. thanks alot for your time and reply`s.

 

[rode2rouen]

>
> I recently bought a straight truck. a 2001, 8100
>International with a sleeper and a 22 foot bed.
>


Is that "bed" as in flatbed??


Rex

 

[targuard86]

all very good questions to ask BEFORE you go out and buy a truck....a truck that is getting close to the magic 5 year old mark.

 

[tweed]

sorry for the confusion....the 22 foot bed I was talking about is a van.

 

[tweed]

also, I forgot to mention that the engine has been totally re-built. I have the re-build sheet and it got the works. all new heads, everything. 14,000 thousand dollar re-build.

 

[D Team Brothers]

Welcome and good luck. As a newbie myself let me tell you - sign on with a reliable large expediter. The other's advice is correct, you should have located a company first before buying the truck. Also, the usual and correct adise to a newbie is: drive for someone else first to learn the job before going out on your own. Now that I have stated the negative, here is the positive (from experience). You sign on with a good company; no numbers etc needed, and they can get you started asap. Your getting into the job at the busy season, which is good - but there is still down time and that's difficult at first. You need to plan on being away from home WEEKS at a time if you want to make money here. Keep in mind there are 2 types of expediters; tourist and business types. You need to decide which you are - run for the money, or sit back a cruise and still make go money. Good Luck

 

[x06col]

I'm wondering why you'd need to sign on with a "large" Carrier?? Or, is there something I don't understand about this business? And, actually, there is only one type expediter flying my flags, and, they are not the camping type. Chances are, depending where you are from, that when you liscense your truck with apportioned plates that you will recieve a DOT number in your name, or, the name you register the truck in. If, you really want some "GOOD" information PM or e-mail me.

 

[bludragon13]

could not tell if you plan to go solo or team? we are new to this also about 9 months. contact the companies in order on the home page first four should be enough and ask about pay etc. they can get you going quick but check out all first. plan on 3-7 weeks before going home the more time out means more money. learn the areas your carrrier works and try to stay in them. don't be discouraged by the neg people who respond. there are a lot of different ways to work in this business, don't be fooled by those who make their income off other peoples hard work . stay independent, sign on with a company that that treats you like an owner. good luck I think the brothers gave you good info and these sites needs more real input.

 

[davekc]

I would look to who can find the freight and keep you moving. Some small and some large companies do well at it. Just the same, I have seen both size companies fail miserably at finding freight. Searching the archives here will tell you alot.
Attending the expo in July and talking to numerous drivers will also give you some idea. Many are team oriented so you have to make sure you are listening to ALL of the information, rather than just a part of it. Also consider the source in which you are receiving the information.
Should you just start as a independent? It would depend on your capital and level of experience. If someone steers you in a direction without those two pieces of information, then another motive might be considered.







Davekc
owner
21 years
PantherII
EO moderator

 

[RichM]

The D Brothers said it right, that is an excellent post. There is a EO member who always brings up the paid tourist scenario. Well when you are playing tourist you are earning nothing,and spending last weeks revenue.
The decision is yours,generate revenue for yourself or spend revenue on sightseeing.

 

[davekc]

It is great to have fun out there as long as one doesn't lose sight of the original objective. If you are out doing flowery scenic walks for days through a park, you are likely with the wrong carrier.
It is much better to run, and then take the time in the locations you choose.








Davekc
owner
21 years
PantherII
EO moderator