Trucking: Car Hauling, cdl driver, used dodge 3500

Question
Hi Don,

I am currently looking into buying a used dodge 3500 and a car hauler.  I was just wondering if I am not old enough for companies to hire me to haul cars. I am 19 and I was just looking for a start in the transportation business.  I would also like to know a good place to start, I really didnt want to get into driving a semi although there is a great deal of profits to be made if done correctly.

Thank you,
Andrew


Answer
Hello Andrew....  Thanks for the question.

There are a number of factors that you'll need to consider.  First of all, your equipment such as a Dodge 3500 and a multi car hauler may place you in CDL land.  That is determined by adding the combined GVWR (CGVWR) of the truck and trailer.  The GVWR of the truck is found on the door jamb decal and the GVWR for the trailer is usually found on or near the vin decal.  If the combined GVWR is 26,001 lbs or greater, you'd require a CDL.  In many states if the GVWR of the trailer is 10,000 lbs., you'll need a CDL regardless of the CGVWR.  The killer here is that you can NOT operate as a CDL driver across state lines until you're 21 years of age.  That may be something you'll want to consider very carefully in your decision and selection of equipment.

Transporting motor vehicles across state lines will mean you'll need to be registered with the US DOT's FMCSA as a "for hire" motor carrier.  You'll need a US DOT number assigned and motor carrier authority which is granted by the assignment of an MC#.  An active MC# is essentially your federal license to transport property across state lines for compensation.  There are numerous other requirements that must be satisfied before you can legally transport motor vehicles across state lines for compensation.  This is no reflection on your skill and ability, but due to your age and experience, the cost of insurance may be cost prohibitive, if it is available to you at all.

I would ask that you read some of my previous answers to see more details of what will be required.  If you have additional questions after reading them, please feel free to ask them.

My recommendation, based on your age and likely experience, is to apply for local driving jobs.  Gain some experience and be prepared to make the big leap when you're twenty-one.

Thanks again for the question and good luck whatever you decide to do.
....Don