Trucking: What will cost and make more money?, auto transport company, big rig

Question
QUESTION: Hi my name is Derrick Glover of Glover's Transport.  I recently just started my transporting business.  I deliver household goods, appliances, business and industrial products, etc. I've been renting a 24' box truck from enterprise for about 2 months.  I was thinking if should go on with transporting goods or go into another field of transporting.  I'm thinking about hauling cars.  I don't have a CDL.  I was thinking on getting a dually truck with a gooseneck hitch and haul 3-4 cars at a time.  My question is what will cost and or make more money for me to operate? Oh yeah I'm thinking about purchasing me a 26' box truck next year.

ANSWER: Hi Derrick,

My professional opinion, it's easier to haul cars.   It's something you don't need a strong back for and you can do it on your own without a helper (unlike household goods).  You probably make more money, but there are a lot of variables there. You can get into a used truck and trailer for under $20k and find a local auto transport company to lease out to.  Then, when you learn the ropes, you can go out on your own.  If you decide to stay with household goods, buy a good used truck.  You'll save money over leasing from Enterprise.

Happy Holidays!

Bob Stephens

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QUESTION: Is it a good idea for me to start hauling cars? Is there any good money in it. Do you know any auto transporting companies in Columbia, SC that will take dually besides a big rig?

Answer
Hi Derrick,

I would look into car hauling.  Talk to local auto hauling companies and look into leasing out.  Let them find the loads and worry about getting paid while you drive.  Then, once you learn the ropes, you can go out on your own.  There is good money in it and I would look in your phone book for companies and stop by a local auto auction house and get some information.

Good luck!

Bob Stephens