Trucking: License and trailer, ford f350, bells and whistles

Question
QUESTION: How's it going Bob? I'm fresh out the military and looking to getting into the hotshot business. I've been doing  some research, and wanted to get an expert opinion on a few questions.  Do I need to get a special license for a dually and a 51' gooseneck?  Do you think it would be a good idea for someone just starting off to go independent, incorporate,and go for self?  Have you or do you know anyone that has used a Take 3 Step Deck trailer for autos and cargo?  If I do decide to work for myself, what would be the best way to find steady work without going through the loadboards?  What do you think about an 08 chevy HD 3500 dually?

ANSWER: Hi Corey,

Depending on the weight you haul, you'll probably need a Class B CDL.  Contact your state's Department of Transportation.  There's a lot to learn when you go out on your own.  If your willing to do the work, you can make it, but there is a lot to do and learn.  Make sure you write up a business plan so you know your projected income and expenses.  It wouldn't be a bad idea to lease out to a carrier for a year and learn the ropes.

I'm not familiar with a Take 3, sorry.  On loads, I would use a few brokers to get to know the shippers, then you can contact the shippers directly.  Past that, stop in some local shippers.  Nothing beats old fashioned sales calls.  I usually pull a load for a broker and then contact the shippers directly.

The 2008 Chevy 3500 is a beautiful truck.  I think Ford F350 pulls about 1000 lbs more.  That's the bottom line for me, the more weight you pull, the more money you can make.  Ford and Chevy both have great trucks and either one would work for you.  I wouldn't deck it out with all the bells and whistles, like carpet.  You'll be suprised how fast your truck will get dirty.  Also, you want to keep your start-up costs as low as possible until your established.


Good luck!

Bob Stephens

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Thanks for the advise and info.  Another question though, what would be a good way to get in contact with these people? The brokers, the shippers, or the companies I would try to lease to.

Answer
Hi Corey.

Brokers you can find in your local yellow pages or on sites like www.getloaded.com.  Shippers you will meet by hauling loads for the brokers.  Or you can do old fashioned sales calls.  I would use a few brokers and get to know the shipper/receivers first.

Sites like www.bubbajunk.com and expeditors.com can give you information on leasing too companies.  If you lease out, I like Jones Motor Freight (www.jonesmotor.com).

Happy Holidays!

Bob Stephens