Trucking: Starting a Trucking Company, trucking company, luck jim

Question
I am thinking about starting my own company. I have 11 years of driving experience, almost 10 years with my current employer. I talked to a manager at a Penske shop, and I am thinking about leasing a truck and trailer from them. For around $2500.00 a month, they provide everything except fuel and insurance. I basically want to try to give it a go on my own, and possibly grow into a multi truck operation. With the state of the economy, do you think it is a good idea to get started with this? And, how would I go about getting started, and getting steady freight?

Answer
Phil, with your experience you probably have a pretty good idea of the various options.  Unless you know of a shipper that will give you regular steady business at a reasonable rate, I would recommend starting as an Owner Operator for another company.  The advantage is steady work.  The disadvantage you might not make as much but it would at least get you used to the idea of managing your business without a lot of risk.  Then if it goes well go ahead and get your operating authority and start working the load boards and brokers until you can build up your direct clientèle.  There is always demand for your service but it can also be very competitive and difficult to break into the larger accounts.  Good customer service is the key to survival.  Bets of luck.
Jim.