QuestionI have had a cdl since 2000 and i have an EIN, i want to get a semi so i need to know how to put in bids, who to contact, how to get long term contracts, are gov't contracts available to haul, should i get the truck before i have a bid and who has the best insurance rates for commercial big trucks? ?
AnswerCory, here are a couple of resources for you to check out:
http://www.truckingsuccess.com/starting-a-trucking-business.html
Unless you contract to another carrier you will need operating authority from the FMCSA:
http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/spanish/english/new_entrant_index.htm
If you want to start as an owner operator check this website:.
http://www.ooida.com/
You might also consider the expediting industry:
http://www.expeditersonline.com/
p://www.expresstrucking.com/index.html
There is no one place to go get on bid lists, you just have to start prospecting and selling you service to any shippers you can identify.
It is difficult for a single truck operator to find supportive shippers so most either work as a dedicated contractor (owner operator) to a single larger carrier, or the ones that go independent rely on brokers to find their loads. Government contracts are not worth the hassle. I don't have any recommendations for truck insurance other than shop around.
Hopefully these will give you some ideas. Best of luck.
