Trucking: maximize earning potential, flat beds, refridgerated

Question
I am 42 and planning to make a career change.  I have business, mechanical & electrical experience and would like a more predictable income.

I am seeking a company that will train me in exchange for a year OTR based in the mid west.  Any suggestions?

Do I want tankers, refrigerator, flat beds or freight carriers to maximize earning potential?

Thank You

Bill T.


Answer
Bill, first let me say that I am an admin guy. I have never driven a truck although I worked in senior management at Landstar for 10 years or so.

Money can be made with any of that equipment. The highest paid truckers are typically those that handle Govenment munitions (very stable) and those that haul OD and OW loads. Over weight and Over dimension. Obviously you need to lease, own or ahave access a specialized trailer for that.

If it were me, I would avoid tanker for caustic, flamable or Hazardous materials. It's just too dangerous with the way people drive today. Pay does not keep pace with potential exposure, additional rules, and regulations.

Refridgerated or produce can generate huge earnings as you are being paid by the 100 (weight) and not a PM rate. The problem here is that most carriers will hold the driver liable for up to 1000.00 if you end up with produce load that goes bad. Some of the wholesalers are of questionable integrity.

That really leaves flat bed and 53 footers. THe difference here is really about if you are willing to get wet and or dirty for some extra cash. Flat bed guys are typically charged with strapping and tarping for which you are paid extra.

You really have to pick your equipment, then pick an industry within the equipment.

If I were to get in, I would go with a company like Landstar ( not because I worked there at one time) that allows you to choose which loads you can take versus a forced dispatched company.The problem here is that you have to hustle a little bit. If you develop relationships with the agents, maybe take a couple of so-so loads, and continue to hustle for them, you will start getting the high dollar loads.

I dont know who is looking for OTR trainee's for the mid west. I will make a couple of calls and get back with you.