QuestionHello Jim,
I am asking for some quick help on a matter. An OWNER OPERATOR company named "Refrigerated Transport Express" called here, expressing they would set me up as an owner operator hauling refrigerated goods to retail grocery stores within 350 mi. radius of Nashville, TN...said they had NEW contracts with 28 more stores. Dedicated run with around 3 drops per night; all palletized. Leave 9:00 p.m./home by 7 to 9A next morning, plus weekends off...Just what I've been looking for..IF it's LEGIT! Said I could leave the tractor at their terminal every day...also, fuel card provided and stickers starting out.
They said run should GROSS around $2800.00 per week and I'd have no down payment. I'm supposed to go to their office between 1 and 2 tomorrow afternoon and talk.
If he is LEGIT, it sounds like some hot contracts they're trying to fill fast or they might lose them. Maybe they can't get enough regular OWNER OPS to run at night.
Can you tell me from your own experience, 1st hand or otherwise, anything I should be aware of before lease purchasing a truck through these people? How will I know if they are honest, and how do I keep from getting skinned? Is there any thing they might offer or say where I'd KNOW for sure to scat out of there?
I'd appreciate a reply A.S.A.P., as this may save me from getting really burnt or passing up a good opportunity tomorrow.
Their website I am told is "Internet Transport Industries". I'm going to try and go there now and do some research.
Thank you so much for any advise!
Sincerely,
Michael D. Eidson
AnswerMike, be careful what contracts you sign.
To check out this carrier, start by getting their MC or DOT number and look up their safety and insurance record on the FMCSA website http://www.safersys.org/
I found a carrier based in Texas by that name but not sure if it;s the same company. I also found a company in Nashville named "SEAFOOD SYSTEMS LLC" dba Refrigerated Transport. Looks like they have 1 truck. Have you ever been an owner operator? do you know what your costs will be to operate the truck? The gross may sound good but if it's an older truck with high maintenance, tires, insurance, etc. these costs can add up fast. Then what happens if they loose their contract? You could be stuck paying for a truck with no loads to haul and potentially damage your credit if you have to terminate. For more info from the owner operator perspective check out http://www.ooida.com/
Another good resource is Overdrive magazine's "partners in business website: http://www.partners-in-business.com/
I would suggest you have a knowlegeable attorney look at any agreements before you sign them to make sure you have an escape clause. Just remeber the old adage, "if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is."
Best of Luck,
Jim.
