Trucking: straight truck, houston ship channel, ltl loads

Question
hi, i have been in the marine industry for about 10yrs (all of my adult life) as a tankerman working barges in the Houston ship channel. It is time for a change. I am wanting to buy a 24' straight truck with a lift gate and work all 48 states. I know I have to get MC# DOT# BOC proess agent and insurance. My questions are: on internet load boards do ltl loads apply to the truck I will have are do they apply to bigger trailers and trucks, if not where do I find my loads? Is this worth pursuing, I would really like the freedom of working for myself. will I have to work for a local delivery company in Houston, or is this something I can be successful with on my own? Would it be easier to get work with a 24' stake or flatbed truck? I am really confused about the whole thing. any other advice you can give me? Thanks alot in advance.

Answer
Hi Greg.

It would be very hard to run a 24' under your own authority.  I would look into buying your own truck and leasing out to a company instead.  You have the freedom, many times, of picking your load and when you want to run.  You also don't have the headaches of findings loads and getting paid (and trust me, it's a headache)!  Many companies will help pay insurance, plates, etc. and offer low cost insurance.  Some companies will help you with a purchase of a truck also.  Finally, give up the idea of a 24' flatbed truck.  You won't make it, plain and simple.

Study these links and call some companies for information...

http://www.expeditersonline.com

http://customcritical.fedex.com/us/owneroperator/default.shtml

What you want to look into is being an Expeditor.

Good luck!

Bob Stephens