Trucking: starting a hauling career, ford f450, chevy 3500

Question
hi. I'm 24 and I decided that I and a friend as a partner are going to start an autohauling business out of Florida, and I have plenty of questions. First I'm trying to decide what setup to start with. For the hauler I'm deciding between an Ford F450 dually or a Chevy 3500 duramax. I hear different stories about them. should I try to buy one new or should I start used like maybe a 2004 or 2005? also which one is better suited for hauling 4 cars? which one is more durable and which one has the strongest tranny and engine? Comfort wise I think the Ford is comfortable, but I'm more interested in durability first. Next is the trailer. I'm going back and forth between starting small with a 4 car wedge or a 4 car enclosed. I know the wedge is cheaper to get and probably has the lowest maintenance since there isn't any hydraulics involved. they are also pretty simple to use and very plentiful. the downside is obviously its not closed, so the going rate will be less. also when its raining or snowing, I know the trailer can get pretty slippery? now the enclosed trailer has plenty of benefits. the only proble is the starting cost of a good enclosed trailer with hydraulics. for the enclosed it would probably be better to get new. as the hydraulics can wear out. what do you recommend I start with for the long run? which one is better suited to work with the truck? for the open car can u spray the ramps with something to make them less slippery? also what would I need to start up? by that question I mean what class of cdl would I need for this setup? also what kind of license plates? I plan on hauling up and down the east coast.. and what about the certifications? what do I need? I see trucks with DOT and MC numbers on the side. what are those and are there fees associated with them? also what other taxes and fees are associated with this business? what are some of the regulations in this business for this setup?what sites are good to find jobs? I know this is a lot of questions, and I thank you for your help..  

Answer
Hi.

You do have a few questions.  I will answer as many as I can.

As far as a Ford or Chevy, I see guys running both.  I'm not overly familar with either the F450 or 3500 Chevy.  If it was a Peterbilt or Kenworth, then I could be of more help.  I have heard a lot of good things about the duramax diesel.  I would assume you could have 4 cars with either, but check their towing capacity.  Whatever you decide, get one with an engine warranty!  Read some of my previous answers on that topic.

Now the trailer depends on who your hauling for.  If your hauling high-end cars like Mercedes, BMW, etc., the enclosed is the only way to go.  An open trailer is good for most private individuals and your average dealer.  Find out who you want to haul for and then make your decision.  If your new in the business, start out as cheap as you can.  I'd get an open trailer and get your feet wet first.

You'll probably need a Class B CDL.  Check with the Florida DOT on licensing.  You'll need to plate your truck accordingly and the DMV can help you there.  Websites like www.dotauthority.com can help you with your DOT/MC numbers, permits, etc.  They're fees are on the site.

Your also going to need to incorporate and get insurance for your equipment and the load.  Florida has minimums, but you'll need probably about $750,000 in coverage.  Again, check with the state.

Look at my previous answer under "getting started" to help on how to get a load.

The state of Florida has a wealth of information that can help you.  Also, check expeditorsonline.com and ooida.com for additional help.  They have great forums.

Finally, you might want to go to some kind of driving school.  Pulling a 48 foot trailer can be a real challange, especially if you've never done it before (especially in snow)!  Look into it.

I always tell people new to the business to draw up a business plan.  Trucking has a lot of pitfalls and I see guys go out of business all the time.  It's not near as easy as buying a truck/trailer and opening for business.  You need to learn as much about the trucking industry as you can. You especially need to know what you need to charge before you pull out on your first run.  What do you need to make after paying for the equipment, fuel, insurance, maintenance, tolls, permits, and finally you?  It can be overwhelming, but you can do it.  Just make a great plan and stick to it!

Good luck!

Bob Stephens