Trucking: Getting Started, trucking company, trucking companies


Question
I'm sure you get this question a lot, but I want to know the best way to get started when the end goal is to be an owner-operator.  By getting started, I mean I've never set foot inside the cab of a semi truck.

I'm 55 and looking to change careers.  I've spent a lot of years making money for others and now I want to control my own chances to succeed and profit from my work.

I'm doing research on schools, equipment, jobs availble, etc. but it's still a little bit tough to figure out how to get started.

I've taken the DOT physical and found out that I need to work on getting my BP down to an acceptable level. I'm confident that I can do that.

The main question I have is do I need to get a number of years driving experience before buying a truck, or can I start out as an owner/operator.  If starting as an owner/operator is possible, is it unwise to attempt it?  I want to give myself a chance to succeed, so I don't want to dive in, make big mistakes, and be done in a couple of years. I need to make this career change last for me for at least 10 years.  Thanks in advance for you help.

Regards,
David Jones

Answer
Hi David, Suggest you find a trucking company that has a school and will hire you when you finish the training. Most insurance companies want drivers to have 2 - 3 years experience. C.R.England is one company that has ads on TV.
Do not know if you live close to one of their schools. I am sure there are other companies. Try going on line and look up "trucking companies" .   Good Luck J P