I met a successful O/O many years ago who gave me this valuable advice. To succeed do these 3 things: Keep your truck clean, keep yourself clean and show up everyday. To this day it amazes me how many will not do these 3 simple things. I'll be retiring soon and my truck has provided my family and I a wonderful life. Best wishes for all my fellow drivers and those that aspire to become O/O's
Yes, the only way to really grow is by taking responsibility for ourself. It is not about external things, it is not about cleaning outside, it is not about helping others even, it is always about ourself, about cleaning the inner world that will be unequivocally reflected on the outside as a by-product, that is, those that have been cleaned internally themselves from the inner disorder they will bring good things into the world: love and compassion, understanding and dedication in everything they do.
@@regab364936 Nothing to add to your comment. I love the eternal wisdom in your words. Yet I would humbly propose to say that we need not to rely upon our own strength and moral, but be coworkers with the Lord Jesus in perfecting our souls, hearts and minds. This strategy never fails. Blessings to you , guys.
Very nice.I am owner operator since 2010.I put 1.5 million mile on my first freightliner 2006 columbia.Now finally I bought 2022 peterbilt 565 hp 18 speed all platinum interior and brand new utility thermoking reefer president. Hard work guys.It will payoff just stay alive and work hard.Your dream will come true.I am former USA Iraq veteran too.served my tour very happily. Love army and long haul trucking.This is my company. I Work under my authority. I do all my paperwork every single thing myself. I teach myself. I am my boss.i love my freedom. I earned it.
Awesome video thank you. I just bought an ‘09 International day cab, with a 12 month 160,000km warranty. No payments first, years insurance paid up and $25,000 in my business account. Coming back to trucking after 15 years away. I am also 50 and I have recently recovered from prostate cancer, my kids are grown and I’m divorced, so this is for me.
As an aspiring o/o, I needed this video. I just recently passed school for my CDL Class A. I’m going to be driving for a company within 2 weeks. My plan already was to be a company driver for 3-5 years. Learn the ropes, run different regions, gain the proper experience & save money. I’m looking to have at least $30k saved before making the transition. I say $30k because having that cushion is a blessing in the long run. The more cushion, the safer the fall in my eyes. Thank you for the video, I hope it reaches more & more viewers!!
After 15 years as a company driver my impression of the trucking business is that the O/O's who are successful could have been successful starting a taco stand, yard service, convenience store or any small business, and the rest would go broke no matter what they did.
Well said. I’m almost 50. Been independent (own authority) since 1994. Debt free since 2000. Started my first DBA business at age 12. It hasn’t been all roses but have done pretty well. Despite this business basically getting much harder every year.
100% agree. Great incentive for me to be disciplined with my money. It seems maintenance is the number one killer of owner ops. Prepare for the costs, or it's a short term ride.
I been in the trucking industry for almost forty years. Eighteen of them as an owner operator. I am now just a company man again. I must say sir that you are spot on with your numbers. After owning three different trucks and specking them for what I was going to do with the truck, the mistake I made was that I should have specked the truck bigger for operations that arose unexpectedly. Good job on your explanations.
I was a company driver my whole career. Made good money and never paid for tires trailer issues or breakdowns ! I hot lucky too have an awesome dispatcher. We worked great together, she looked out for me and vice versa!
We would like to offer owner operators a gross from 11.000$ (solo) 14.000$ (team) Dedicated lanes are avilable. 16% charge.All the services included Who is interested?
As a retired CPA and controller of a company with nine OTR trucks, your advice is solid. I would add that if you are a OO, you need to avoid unprofitable loads and unprofitable routes. What money are you going to make if you can't get backhauls out of a location. When we subcontracted loads, we could always tell the smart operators from those who had no clue. BTW, I would want US$30-50k in the bank, as it seems that Canadian expenses seem to be a lot higher.
I am freshly retired after driving company trucks mostly company trucks for the last 20 years. However when I did drive for owners I always ran the truck paying attention to all the numbers as if it was mine. All the ups all the downs and where we ended at the end with them. I have to say. Lost my uncle has 55 years of driving himself as well as a small company where I've watched him and he does fantastic. Buddy I have to say your numbers are absolutely spot-on and your information is extremely valuable for these people. They do not understand the change in your life when you sign the dotted line! Great job great info. One thing my uncle always said he either run with one truck or 3 you never run with just two because otherwise one truck has to take care of the bills for two trucks when one truck breaks down if you have three trucks you have two trucks to try to cover the expenses. It makes life much easier food for thought just his opinion and I believe it to be true myself.
Independent owner op here with own authority since 1994. Biggest part is CPM. Cost Per Mile. How much it costs you every single mile. It’s basic math that nobody seems to figure out.
My Dad knew Walter Pool of Poole Trucking Evergreen,Al. He wouldn’t take on an lease operator unless that driver knew his cost per mile! He said if they don’t know their cost how will they stay in business!
Exactly what I was thinking the entire video. Former operations manager at a service company. You can figure out rather accurately what your cost per mile is. Sounds like this is the same as any other business. Pay yourself the bare minimum for the first few years. Keep 40-50k minimum in an operations account. Whatever you would make working for someone else doing your same job, pay yourself less at first until you have accurate P&Ls figured out
You got that right....chrome don't get you home. I love to hear drivers argue about what truck is the best. I say it every time "the best truck on the road is the most profitable truck on the road". This video is very informative and many should find it useful and insightful.
Ive been o/o with my own authority for 8 years And to all new drivers i 100% assure you those advices from this Gentleman are 100% correct Thanks for your time Sir , This is an awesome video
@@lumusmaxhuni4532 I think you didn't get my message clearly man, I am not offering your services ,I just want to talk to o/o so that I can develop my services good for them as we are in incubation right now. It will be very helpful if you share your insightful experience.
as an owner operator in the UK for the past 21 years i used to buy 5 -7 year old trucks and take 4-5 years work out of them, back 20 years ago there was no ad blue, dpf filters had less ecu's and sensors and i done most of my own maintenance, In the event of a gearbox or engine failure £2k reconditioned the gearbox and £5k reconditioned the engine. Twenty years on the dpf silencer on my truck costs £7k and an engine overhaul £20k, and the turbo has an ecu on it not to mention the endless warning lights and wiring loom problems.Today I contract hire a new truck for 5 years with repair and maintenance included in the price, yes it costs a lot of money but if you have steady work its the only way to go as nowadays a 2 or 3 year year old truck could put an owner drivers lights out if the truck gives a lot of hassle, the trucks today with all the electronics and emission controls don't last like the older trucks did and the repairs are extortionate compared to 10-20 years ago and the main dealerships in most cases are the only ones that have the proper diagnostic equipment to work on them. The technology of the new trucks today give the driver a more comfortable driving environment and the new auto gearbox's are superb and i wouldn't want to go back to the trucks that i owned 20 years ago,the only way forward is contract hire with full repair and maintenance included. Also as electric and hydrogen technology is going to be the future there's no way i would ever want to own one without a repair and maintenance contract.
This is by far the best RUclips informational video on Trucking that I have found! We are brand new to the business and researching as much information as we can find! Just subscribed to your channel! THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR YOUR HELP! God bless!
Im 52 yrs old been driving for 27 yrs. I always considered to be an owner op but always had second thought. I am a company driver so when the truck do breakdown i have no worry for any expenses just call road service an go in my bunk.
That's why I shove 20 cents a mile into my maintenence account faithfully, and take 1/3 of what my business receives as driver salary. All that extra money isn't really mine. It's already taken by the mechanics, insurance co, fuel stops and the government. I'm not gonna kid myself. But I love having no boss. Best thing ever.
@@Greg3070 sone folks aren't wired for the extra responsibility and stress. There's nothing wrong with that. BUT their earnings are capped and their employment is at the whim of others...others that collect most of the money that truck is bring in. The owner ops i know would never in a million years return to being company drivers. They are all successful in their endeavors.
Hi, Just out nowhere this video showed up, and I watched it. If it helps, I have always respected Lorry drivers and I never thought they were looked down. We owe a lot deal to you AND your families, that have to go a lot of time without you. Keep up the good work! And just for the record, to me you guys are heroes
It’s called budgeting for expected expenses and amortization for new trucks. Buy new keep under warranty and trade out. Keep it moving. Or even lease if you only have one truck and you have a breakdown. Never sit idle. Run a smart well planned, budgeted company, and anyone can make it in the business.
. Its always great to have a mechanic take a look at your rig every now and then. Where I'm lease on, they require a 90 day inspection. I tell you this, they have saved me thousands and avoid roadside break down. They performed level 1 inspection. They been able to catch things that I missed. If possible, find a good mechanic that can help keep your rig going. I believe that's what most owner operator lack. 1 year inspection doesn't help. Most of them just run till it breaks. Gotta do those PM
Very informative video and very knowledgeable. Considering becoming a owner operator one day I’m glad I viewed this video first and now know how to better prepare myself.
Thanks Brian for sharing o/o guidelines n hastle that everyone should consider before make that move. I was planning on becoming O/O but I guess I will take a break here atleast till I have 20k in savings. You are right about first breakdown like how much it cud cost me and when.... So thx for that n stay safe
Great video I’m definitely starting small with a. Daycab. Just right now trying to see if I want to run the load board or find a company that offers dedicated
A business mentality avoids chrome and nice stuff in the truck. Great video. I'm starting this year I hope. Reading basic business books & trucking business books help a ton.
This was incredibly helpful. I am trying to help my husband reach his trucking goals and this was informative to get my research started. Thank you for this! Excited to start this journey alongside my husband.
Fantastic video... Fuel is your biggest expense, and then maintanence. Shops normally charge around $165 an hour, so it is best to have the proper tools and diagnostic equipment on hand, along with the ability to learn all of the systems on the truck and how to properly diagnose and repair. And I am not talking about brake jobs. I am speaking of emissions. If you cannot work on these systems, or at least diagnose on the roadside, you will be in a world of financial hurt in short order. Than, you need to know how to drive the truck for fuel economy and motor longevity. Lug the motor, you will be out of business in short order when one of the liners drop. Drive 70+ mph, abusing the truck and motor, you will be out of business in short order. Picking a truck, this is where everyone seems to screw up. They get the wrong rear end and transmission gearing for what they intend to use the truck for. Delete, do not buy a truck with a delete, they are rarely if ever done properly and when they fail, it normally entails a complete rebuild of the motor. Again, buy tools, diagnostics, learn how to maintain the tuck properly. Learn how to do EGR tuneups, service the truck every 10,000 to 18,000 miles as conditions dictate. The emission filters, the DOC/DPF/SCR systems, you need to be able to maintain these systems, and that may entail crawling under the truck and removing them yourself. Learn the sensors, how to properly clean an EGR valve, how to rebuild a fuel pump, the list goes on and on. When you own an EPA truck, you are the warranty center, depend on a dealer for this work, you will be in the poor house in short order. I have been there and done that... I had to rebuild my motor twice, because the licensed Cummins shop botched the job by skipping several crucial steps. The motor lasted 70,000 miles and was shot, cylinder liner broke loose. I ended up doing the second rebuild at a friends house, in his driveway under a Home Depot picnic canopy. This industry is not for the faint of heart or weak minded. If you think a dealer will maintain your truck with an expensive warranty, you are being a fool, a damn fool. You are the warranty station and ultimately the head mechanic if you want to survive out here. thank God I was able to pay cash for this truck, it has served me, drained my wallet twice to the tune of $80,000+, but if I would have followed my own advice on that first motor rebuild, I would have some bragging rights. I'm still digging out from that, and then Covid hit. If I had a payment on this truck, I would have been out of business in short order.
Thank you very much for the info and I truly appreciate your sincerity, Brian. I am in the process of getting my class A license to become an O/O in a few years. All my concerns have been addressed by your video and it helps me to be more prepared. Again, thanks for taking the time to share. You are a great man!
Great advice about seeing the country as a company driver, then when you start your owner-op business you'll have your vacations out of the way and make money by staying in your wheelhouse where the good money is and you can deal with people you know.
Thanks for all the information given us, because there is a lot more things people don't inspected, so clear you sprained , nothig it's hide, and cheap, goodnight and wait for more videos, Thanks again
The way I heard it was "chrome don't get you home." I'm on my second truck now and 4 years into being an owner operator and love my job. (first truck was a Maxxforce powered Prostar) Now that I have a truck that inspires confidence and a history of reliability I actually have a small bank account saved up. Beware of the brand of truck you buy, don't take the first persons opinion you hear but after dozens of people warn you of the same thing maybe it's time to listen. I would never buy another International. New (slightly used) truck is T680.
The 1st truck I had were a 1996 International Eagle with a 60 series Detroit engine (OTR) rated. With 150 gallon fuel tanks. I had just 6 months to pay it off doing a lease purchase; The company dispatch, safety director, and the o/o company manager all ok me to haul a unsafe load. I got it all recorded, drove 3 miles from the shipper and rolled over the truck. Once the company wouldn't reimburse me for my truck, because they received the insurance check but wanted to cut me out as a lose (so many drivers just walk away) I hired a attorney, once the company after avoiding me for 2 months found out about the lawyer my truck were replaced, I received a settlement, and I had a better truck and had it played off in 6months. 2and truck were more expensive and more dependable and I drove th@ truck for 2 more years with low expanses. 😁🤑👍👏
thank yall for making these videos your making me think and ask more questions before i dive to deep into being a owner operator. i will start with a company first.
Very very good video. I’m one year in and about to buy my first truck. I do the dollar general and thank God I’m young, fit, and focused. I’m going to do well, but I also truly hear what you’ve said in the video and not afraid to ask questions and research. Thank you for the advice, it’s been received. ✌️
You sure made some good points. There is a big difference between being a wheel turner and a truck driver/owner-operator. When you break down, and you know that you’re gonna use a garage to do the repairs, know what you can and will do on your own, but also work with someone you trust to do the repairs RIGHT and not take you to the bank! If you have a backup truck or plan, that’s important, too. I’ve never heard that a Volvo was a nicer truck, lasted longer, got better mileage , was more aerodynamic or worked better than any other. I’m glad it works for you and that’s the important thing. I’ve been in a couple of Volvos and just really didn’t care for them at all. Good stuff. Thanks for the info. Stay safe, my friend.
I'm a oilfield man for the last 20 years of my 25 years of driving and hauling crude oil in the big oil booms I've personally seen guys make 60 thousand dollars a month but then it may not be there next year and then your back hauling groceries cheers and hats off to all you owner operator's
Respect man, these are exactly my words. I just had bad luck on my private side that puts me in a situation with my company which caused 5 months with no cash flow. This results in bankruptcy after 7 yrs of being a o/o. Like you said 50k!!!!!!! The engine went with 1.4 mio km. All said
I'm doing my research on becoming an owner operator. Have read and watched videos on becoming an owner operator. And so far a lot of negative. Now your video here, has let's call it educational information for the guy that has no clue at all of becoming an owner operator, such as I. I subscribed to your channel, and will be watching more of your videos.
If you tell the truck dealership the DOT number of where you plan to lease to, you are exempt from sales tax. But all the rest is right on. 2 years so far, maintenance account is building well and profit is good.
Still absolutely green and wet behind the ears when it come to the trucking industry. A fast learner i can say but I definitely learned at from this video. My goal is to own my own truck in the future. My first obstacle is finding the correct pay far as company driver. I'm on my 2nd company now cause the first were only paying 500-700 a week beginning a regional driver. So now I'm patiently waiting to see what other opportunities are out there while building up my experience behind the trucks/over the road. But I was always told that the sky is the limit with owning your own truck. To everyone God Bless.
This specific channel... I love it. They all saying truth. Truth. This is how they getting respect from subscribers. ET transportation will grow very fast, unless they start lying.
Very informative video . I’ve been driving 16 years and decided to become a owner operator. Terrified doesn’t describe how I’m feeling . I pick up the truck in a couple days with the 2 year red oval warranty so a little insurance.
Keep a good maintenance account and consider that money already owed. I put 20 cents a mile in mine. Otherwise, you're gonna wanna cry when you get that $3000 bill your weren't expecting.
Tow truck tried 2 charge me $700 to go 4 miles. I changed the alternator on the side of the road. This man is speaking the truth about being an owner operator.
Very informative video! Im in the early stages of putting things together to buy a truck and go on my own. It's a scary step, but a necessary stepI truly believe!
Great advice for the new owner operators. Bought my first truck in 1994. It was an 89 GMC / Volvo W164T model, 9 speed with a 350 Cummings. Paid $27,000 for it in Jacksonville , Florida. I have bought many more trucks after that with different outcomes. Trailers as well. I have 10 more years in this, then I am going to retire. Thank you for the video.
Thank you so much for the valuable info about becoming an Owner Opt. I now have a Blueprint on how to proceed further in my pursuit of becoming an Owner Opt.
Good video, it covers pretty much all of the bases. One thing that needs to be stressed, YOU ARE the warranty center. You better have the tools and diagnostics to work on these new EPA motors. Know what an EGR tuneup is, how to diagnose properly, etc. If you think a warranty is going to save your butt, you are being a fool, no, a damn fool. There are very few shops in this country, or Canada, that can properly diagnose and properly fix an EPA motor or emission system. Drill that into your head, do not buy that warranty, you are the warranty if you are going to keep the truck past 3 years. These emission trucks have a 500,000 mile cycle, not the 1 million miles of of the old iron. Why do you think you see all of those trucks for sale with 300,000 to 500,000 miles on them? Because they are slap wore out, that is why! Many will require an in frame the minute you drive them off the lot. Don't laugh, that is a true statement. You better know what the hell you are doing when you buy a used truck, and for God's sake, pick the appropriate gearing and transmission for what YOU intend to do with it! And stay away from these trucks with automatic and 2:20 rear ends, those trucks have been beaten to death being lugged around their entire life. Try and find a manual transmission with at least 3:42 gears or lower, 3:55 is ideal for most applications out here. Do your due diligence, don't be that guy.
I like to think of being an owner operator as being a starship captain, except your really the only person on the ship, so you have to cover the whole ship. Starfleet tells you where to drive, everything......everything else is up to you. If you didn't get the starfleet reference sorry not sorry.
Love your Channel man ,…. First time I watched. I’m from Kentucky and watching from “ The Bluegrass State “ my friend. I’m not a Trucker ,… but I know a lot of truckers and love to listen to their stories. I work in a warehouse and I have been there for over 36 years and heard a lot of stuff . I do respect you Truckers everyday and I talk to a lot of you on The CB Radio as you guys come though Town here in Kentucky and The Greater Cincinnati Area . God Bless you all and be Safe on the roads my friends ,… and share the good information with your fellow truck drivers …….. Remember we are all in this together. If we don’t have good truck drivers ,…. We don’t have any GOODS to Buy . “ Everything moves by Truck “. Don’t forget that people “. !!!! God Bless American 🇺🇸
I'm just starting out, scared as hell to even be a company driver but I'm taking the plunge. Maybe O/O is in the cards later but I've never even sat in a semi before, let alone driven one
@@harrisn9783 what area? thinking of changing careers and being an O/O someday soon but might want to start as a company driver to make sure I will like it...
Great video! I'm new to the trucking industry and have been doing some research on O/Os. I've asked a couple of other RUclips O/O's about their expense ratios, but neither one replied back. I was hoping that maybe you can shed some light on the low to high range expense ratio of an O/O in your experience and possibly with your friends that are O/Os as well??
Man im just a young gun myself who is super interested in trucking and plan to do it and i appreciate your seriousness and honesty in these videos makes it way easier to understand and plan for because nothin in this life comes free. Keep it up ET!
I can honestly say that I really doubt that that’s going to be your last truck. My father said he same thing and even quit and got a good job in heavy equipment operator and he still got another truck and went back on the road. It’s my belief that it gets in your blood and you end up doing it till can’t no more anyway good luck and happy trails
I'm so happy that I never gave up on myself, and stayed away from this industry. I love these videos, because it brings me back to when I was in my early 20's trying to figure out what I wanted to do with my life. I support this channel, because it reminds me what could have been.
One of the best Videos about trucking In US by the way im not even a trucker or willing to be but I love Love trucks and hearing the News and how you run ur businesses + i following alot of trackers and Also im not Even in USA or any around LOL xD
You guy’s should break down speaks for us new driver’s who don’t know anything about truck’s and just got the license recently please 🙏. I absolutely love your Chanel guy’s
3-5 yrs as a co driver before oo is best advice, I see ppl say they drove 3 months as co before thinking they know everything there is to know about trucking, I bet they don't last, I've asked a few that put up comments 3 or more years ago, asking if they still operating. None answered
Being an o/o your a business person, driving truck is just the side job, be ready to lose everything. Find a good mechanic, and a loan officer that knows you.
I’ve saved enough in less than a year to buy a good used truck. Now I’m just building funds for maintenance and expenses, including a generous down payment on a flatbed trailer.
After trucking across America, you are the only person speaking favorably for Volvo trucks. The ONLY one. Lol but if it works for you! For me, comfort is superseded by reliability. I'll lease a perfect truck before I buy/invest in a used truck. My first break down was a nightmare, heart ache, headache, and wallet ache. I now keep all my warranties in a binder.
I once read from a blog that before you become an O/O, you better have AT LEAST $50,000 in your bank account to cover lack of loads or maintenance, etc.
I met a successful O/O many years ago who gave me this valuable advice. To succeed do these 3 things: Keep your truck clean, keep yourself clean and show up everyday. To this day it amazes me how many will not do these 3 simple things. I'll be retiring soon and my truck has provided my family and I a wonderful life. Best wishes for all my fellow drivers and those that aspire to become O/O's
Why retire? I thought you would run at least part time to keep your sanity.
Sage advice
Yes, the only way to really grow is by taking responsibility for ourself. It is not about external things, it is not about cleaning outside, it is not about helping others even, it is always about ourself, about cleaning the inner world that will be unequivocally reflected on the outside as a by-product, that is, those that have been cleaned internally themselves from the inner disorder they will bring good things into the world: love and compassion, understanding and dedication in everything they do.
@@regab364936 Nothing to add to your comment. I love the eternal wisdom in your words. Yet I would humbly propose to say that we need not to rely upon our own strength and moral, but be coworkers with the Lord Jesus in perfecting our souls, hearts and minds. This strategy never fails. Blessings to you , guys.
@@vladimirzhirov3716 ❤️🙏
Very nice.I am owner operator since 2010.I put 1.5 million mile on my first freightliner 2006 columbia.Now finally I bought 2022 peterbilt 565 hp 18 speed all platinum interior and brand new utility thermoking reefer president. Hard work guys.It will payoff just stay alive and work hard.Your dream will come true.I am former USA Iraq veteran too.served my tour very happily. Love army and long haul trucking.This is my company. I Work under my authority. I do all my paperwork every single thing myself. I teach myself. I am my boss.i love my freedom. I earned it.
Congratulations Brother Shekhar. May GOD continue to Bless you and I wish you more continued success.
Thank you for your service. Many blessings and prosperity to you and your family.
The irony is, you’ll be lucky to get half the mileage from the 2022 Peterbilt as you did from the Columbia.
@@mr.butterworth but columbia give me very hard time.May be i dont have good luck.
Why Peterbuilt over Frieghtliner? Thank you!
Awesome video thank you. I just bought an ‘09 International day cab, with a 12 month 160,000km warranty. No payments first, years insurance paid up and $25,000 in my business account. Coming back to trucking after 15 years away. I am also 50 and I have recently recovered from prostate cancer, my kids are grown and I’m divorced, so this is for me.
Wishing you all the Best
You are definitely prepared. Good work! Wish you the best!
You'll do great!
I hope you bought a international with the Cummins engine? Not the max force. 😬😬
@@darrenhanson7696 , yes I bought one with an ISM410
Being the owner of several trucks in Snowrunner and ETS-2, I must admit that this guy got some serious points for truck owners..🧐🧐
😅
can we get an F in the chat for that fleetstar that got eaten by the bog in Alaska.
I played that game so long
that's hilarious 😂 I'm playing mudrunner now 😂 😂
As an aspiring o/o, I needed this video. I just recently passed school for my CDL Class A. I’m going to be driving for a company within 2 weeks. My plan already was to be a company driver for 3-5 years. Learn the ropes, run different regions, gain the proper experience & save money. I’m looking to have at least $30k saved before making the transition. I say $30k because having that cushion is a blessing in the long run. The more cushion, the safer the fall in my eyes. Thank you for the video, I hope it reaches more & more viewers!!
Good luck bro
Well said
3 years is such a long time...get out in 6 months
Congratulations man. I'm gonna start school once I find a good one in Florida.
Bro that is exactly my plan got my cdl in January and been driving company will wait a couple years become o/o.
After 15 years as a company driver my impression of the trucking business is that the O/O's who are successful could have been successful starting a taco stand, yard service, convenience store or any small business, and the rest would go broke no matter what they did.
Well said. I’m almost 50. Been independent (own authority) since 1994. Debt free since 2000. Started my first DBA business at age 12. It hasn’t been all roses but have done pretty well. Despite this business basically getting much harder every year.
Exactly Gary. Cream will always rise to the top. No matter the situation.
THIS!
Well said.
Was looking for this comment lol
Buying my truck was the best thing I ever did,been at for over 6 years. Just don't think I can go back to company trucks
no o/o can
100% agree. Great incentive for me to be disciplined with my money. It seems maintenance is the number one killer of owner ops. Prepare for the costs, or it's a short term ride.
Is it because u don't have a plan? U just live week to week. As a company driver
The thought never crosses mind. "Being a company driver again"
I been in the trucking industry for almost forty years. Eighteen of them as an owner operator. I am now just a company man again. I must say sir that you are spot on with your numbers. After owning three different trucks and specking them for what I was going to do with the truck, the mistake I made was that I should have specked the truck bigger for operations that arose unexpectedly. Good job on your explanations.
I need advice please
Dude you are like the King of what young boys need to do out here as a trucker.
I got my CDL at 21, purchased my first truck at 22 it was a 2015 t680 had it for almost a year
I’m not a trucker but it’s apparent that he is sharing valuable knowledge and wisdom in trucking. Aspiring owner ops it’ll be wise to listen
Except buying a Volvo lol
I was a company driver my whole career. Made good money and never paid for tires trailer issues or breakdowns ! I hot lucky too have an awesome dispatcher. We worked great together, she looked out for me and vice versa!
They’re still making a lot off of you.
We would like to offer owner operators a gross from 11.000$ (solo) 14.000$ (team)
Dedicated lanes are avilable. 16% charge.All the services included
Who is interested?
Yes they make great money off co.drivers!
As a retired CPA and controller of a company with nine OTR trucks, your advice is solid. I would add that if you are a OO, you need to avoid unprofitable loads and unprofitable routes. What money are you going to make if you can't get backhauls out of a location. When we subcontracted loads, we could always tell the smart operators from those who had no clue. BTW, I would want US$30-50k in the bank, as it seems that Canadian expenses seem to be a lot higher.
This is the best advice I've heard he's not being negative but just giving realistic advice this is golden thanks 🙏
Thanks for watching!
I am freshly retired after driving company trucks mostly company trucks for the last 20 years. However when I did drive for owners I always ran the truck paying attention to all the numbers as if it was mine. All the ups all the downs and where we ended at the end with them. I have to say. Lost my uncle has 55 years of driving himself as well as a small company where I've watched him and he does fantastic. Buddy I have to say your numbers are absolutely spot-on and your information is extremely valuable for these people. They do not understand the change in your life when you sign the dotted line! Great job great info. One thing my uncle always said he either run with one truck or 3 you never run with just two because otherwise one truck has to take care of the bills for two trucks when one truck breaks down if you have three trucks you have two trucks to try to cover the expenses. It makes life much easier food for thought just his opinion and I believe it to be true myself.
Independent owner op here with own authority since 1994. Biggest part is CPM. Cost Per Mile. How much it costs you every single mile. It’s basic math that nobody seems to figure out.
Agreed, any business, it is about the math.
My Dad knew Walter Pool of Poole Trucking Evergreen,Al. He wouldn’t take on an lease operator unless that driver knew his cost per mile! He said if they don’t know their cost how will they stay in business!
Exactly what I was thinking the entire video. Former operations manager at a service company. You can figure out rather accurately what your cost per mile is. Sounds like this is the same as any other business. Pay yourself the bare minimum for the first few years. Keep 40-50k minimum in an operations account. Whatever you would make working for someone else doing your same job, pay yourself less at first until you have accurate P&Ls figured out
You got that right....chrome don't get you home. I love to hear drivers argue about what truck is the best. I say it every time "the best truck on the road is the most profitable truck on the road". This video is very informative and many should find it useful and insightful.
Ive been o/o with my own authority for 8 years
And to all new drivers i 100% assure you those advices from this Gentleman are 100% correct
Thanks for your time Sir , This is an awesome video
Hi Lumus
Please share your linkdn or Facebook,I need to talk about o/o with their own MC as we are looking forward to start our dispatch company.
@@prathamchaudhary2536 sorry don’t need your services
@@lumusmaxhuni4532 I think you didn't get my message clearly man, I am not offering your services ,I just want to talk to o/o so that I can develop my services good for them as we are in incubation right now.
It will be very helpful if you share your insightful experience.
as an owner operator in the UK for the past 21 years i used to buy 5 -7 year old trucks and take 4-5 years work out of them, back 20 years ago there was no ad blue, dpf filters had less ecu's and sensors and i done most of my own maintenance, In the event of a gearbox or engine failure £2k reconditioned the gearbox and £5k reconditioned the engine. Twenty years on the dpf silencer on my truck costs £7k and an engine overhaul £20k, and the turbo has an ecu on it not to mention the endless warning lights and wiring loom problems.Today I contract hire a new truck for 5 years with repair and maintenance included in the price, yes it costs a lot of money but if you have steady work its the only way to go as nowadays a 2 or 3 year year old truck could put an owner drivers lights out if the truck gives a lot of hassle, the trucks today with all the electronics and emission controls don't last like the older trucks did and the repairs are extortionate compared to 10-20 years ago and the main dealerships in most cases are the only ones that have the proper diagnostic equipment to work on them. The technology of the new trucks today give the driver a more comfortable driving environment and the new auto gearbox's are superb and i wouldn't want to go back to the trucks that i owned 20 years ago,the only way forward is contract hire with full repair and maintenance included. Also as electric and hydrogen technology is going to be the future there's no way i would ever want to own one without a repair and maintenance contract.
Hi sir, am planning to buy my own truck in UK. How much you think I can make a month? Thanks
Wow thank you so much for sharing. Very insightful!
Fantastic video. I've been a truck driver for 7 years and an owner op for one of them and I can say this guy is bang on.
This is by far the best RUclips informational video on Trucking that I have found! We are brand new to the business and researching as much information as we can find! Just subscribed to your channel! THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR YOUR HELP! God bless!
That's the most valuable information in this whole video. The old timers ! A world of knowledge!
i'm going to trucking school next month..I know I'll be okay...but, listening to this..is intimidating.
Im 52 yrs old been driving for 27 yrs.
I always considered to be an owner op
but always had second thought.
I am a company driver so when the truck do breakdown i have no worry for any expenses just call road service an go in my bunk.
I Know The Feeling 😀
That's why I shove 20 cents a mile into my maintenence account faithfully, and take 1/3 of what my business receives as driver salary. All that extra money isn't really mine. It's already taken by the mechanics, insurance co, fuel stops and the government. I'm not gonna kid myself. But I love having no boss. Best thing ever.
@@Greg3070 sone folks aren't wired for the extra responsibility and stress. There's nothing wrong with that. BUT their earnings are capped and their employment is at the whim of others...others that collect most of the money that truck is bring in. The owner ops i know would never in a million years return to being company drivers. They are all successful in their endeavors.
That's why u will never become what u want to become.
Hi,
Just out nowhere this video showed up, and I watched it.
If it helps, I have always respected Lorry drivers and I never thought they were looked down. We owe a lot deal to you AND your families, that have to go a lot of time without you.
Keep up the good work! And just for the record, to me you guys are heroes
It’s called budgeting for expected expenses and amortization for new trucks. Buy new keep under warranty and trade out. Keep it moving. Or even lease if you only have one truck and you have a breakdown. Never sit idle. Run a smart well planned, budgeted company, and anyone can make it in the business.
Don't know how I came across your video? Not interested in trucking, but I can listen to you all day. Great video on for people getting into trucking.
. Its always great to have a mechanic take a look at your rig every now and then.
Where I'm lease on, they require a 90 day inspection. I tell you this, they have saved me thousands and avoid roadside break down.
They performed level 1 inspection. They been able to catch things that I missed.
If possible, find a good mechanic that can help keep your rig going.
I believe that's what most owner operator lack. 1 year inspection doesn't help. Most of them just run till it breaks. Gotta do those PM
Schneider?
Spot on information a must watch for first time owner operators.
Very informative video and very knowledgeable. Considering becoming a owner operator one day I’m glad I viewed this video first and now know how to better prepare myself.
I’m so proud of my self as an o/o for 16 years. I can’t be wrong. God bless you.
Thanks Brian for sharing o/o guidelines n hastle that everyone should consider before make that move. I was planning on becoming O/O but I guess I will take a break here atleast till I have 20k in savings. You are right about first breakdown like how much it cud cost me and when.... So thx for that n stay safe
the most honest, valuable, and verifiable video about owner operator
This is great, May God bless this man.
Great video I’m definitely starting small with a. Daycab. Just right now trying to see if I want to run the load board or find a company that offers dedicated
A business mentality avoids chrome and nice stuff in the truck. Great video. I'm starting this year I hope. Reading basic business books & trucking business books help a ton.
This was incredibly helpful. I am trying to help my husband reach his trucking goals and this was informative to get my research started. Thank you for this! Excited to start this journey alongside my husband.
Fantastic video...
Fuel is your biggest expense, and then maintanence. Shops normally charge around $165 an hour, so it is best to have the proper tools and diagnostic equipment on hand, along with the ability to learn all of the systems on the truck and how to properly diagnose and repair. And I am not talking about brake jobs. I am speaking of emissions. If you cannot work on these systems, or at least diagnose on the roadside, you will be in a world of financial hurt in short order.
Than, you need to know how to drive the truck for fuel economy and motor longevity. Lug the motor, you will be out of business in short order when one of the liners drop. Drive 70+ mph, abusing the truck and motor, you will be out of business in short order.
Picking a truck, this is where everyone seems to screw up. They get the wrong rear end and transmission gearing for what they intend to use the truck for.
Delete, do not buy a truck with a delete, they are rarely if ever done properly and when they fail, it normally entails a complete rebuild of the motor.
Again, buy tools, diagnostics, learn how to maintain the tuck properly. Learn how to do EGR tuneups, service the truck every 10,000 to 18,000 miles as conditions dictate. The emission filters, the DOC/DPF/SCR systems, you need to be able to maintain these systems, and that may entail crawling under the truck and removing them yourself. Learn the sensors, how to properly clean an EGR valve, how to rebuild a fuel pump, the list goes on and on.
When you own an EPA truck, you are the warranty center, depend on a dealer for this work, you will be in the poor house in short order. I have been there and done that... I had to rebuild my motor twice, because the licensed Cummins shop botched the job by skipping several crucial steps. The motor lasted 70,000 miles and was shot, cylinder liner broke loose. I ended up doing the second rebuild at a friends house, in his driveway under a Home Depot picnic canopy.
This industry is not for the faint of heart or weak minded. If you think a dealer will maintain your truck with an expensive warranty, you are being a fool, a damn fool. You are the warranty station and ultimately the head mechanic if you want to survive out here. thank God I was able to pay cash for this truck, it has served me, drained my wallet twice to the tune of $80,000+, but if I would have followed my own advice on that first motor rebuild, I would have some bragging rights. I'm still digging out from that, and then Covid hit. If I had a payment on this truck, I would have been out of business in short order.
You can get a CDL and run as a team if you’re interested.
HI Ruby, I am in same bottle, my husband just got his truck last year and now we are learning. Are you helping him with he booking?
I don’t drive trucks or have much interest in it but got recommended this video and found this fascinating. Thanks for the info
this guy opens his eyes to many who will watch this video...
My best video ever on trucking … I now have confidence to take on the next big step ❤
Thank you very much for the info and I truly appreciate your sincerity, Brian. I am in the process of getting my class A license to become an O/O in a few years. All my concerns have been addressed by your video and it helps me to be more prepared. Again, thanks for taking the time to share. You are a great man!
Thanks. 6th year company driver. Looking to purchase my 1st semi in a month. Drive safe.
Great advice about seeing the country as a company driver, then when you start your owner-op business you'll have your vacations out of the way and make money by staying in your wheelhouse where the good money is and you can deal with people you know.
Brother from a fellow trucker that was a great video thanks for educating new owner Operators
God bless you sir. No everyone tell this, they just tell financial changes.
Thanks for all the information given us, because there is a lot more things people don't inspected, so clear you sprained , nothig it's hide, and cheap, goodnight and wait for more videos, Thanks again
The way u explain trucking is excellent 👌
Wow 😯 the way you explained in the video is really good 👍 , Dow payments, APR , breakdowns , payments . Good information
Thank you for sharing your experience, knowledge & wisdom about the trucking industry.
Alot of important information was not even touched on to be an owner operator. This is great advice for a lease owner operator
The way I heard it was "chrome don't get you home." I'm on my second truck now and 4 years into being an owner operator and love my job. (first truck was a Maxxforce powered Prostar) Now that I have a truck that inspires confidence and a history of reliability I actually have a small bank account saved up. Beware of the brand of truck you buy, don't take the first persons opinion you hear but after dozens of people warn you of the same thing maybe it's time to listen. I would never buy another International. New (slightly used) truck is T680.
Because of the max force..I think a cummins would of done you better
Which truck you have now?
He said a T680
One of best teaching I've heard
The 1st truck I had were a 1996 International Eagle with a 60 series Detroit engine (OTR) rated.
With 150 gallon fuel tanks. I had just 6 months to pay it off doing a lease purchase;
The company dispatch, safety director, and the o/o company manager all ok me to haul a unsafe load.
I got it all recorded, drove 3 miles from the shipper and rolled over the truck. Once the company wouldn't reimburse me for my truck, because they received the insurance check but wanted to cut me out as a lose (so many drivers just walk away) I hired a attorney, once the company after
avoiding me for 2 months found out about the lawyer my truck were replaced, I received a settlement, and I had a better truck and had it played off in 6months.
2and truck were more expensive and more dependable and I drove th@ truck for 2 more years with low expanses. 😁🤑👍👏
thank yall for making these videos your making me think and ask more questions before i dive to deep into being a owner operator. i will start with a company first.
Very very good video.
I’m one year in and about to buy my first truck.
I do the dollar general and thank God I’m young, fit, and focused. I’m going to do well, but I also truly hear what you’ve said in the video and not afraid to ask questions and research.
Thank you for the advice, it’s been received. ✌️
I’m a retired trucker, very nice video, owner operator like you say is better after being a company driver for a few years. Keep the shinny side up.
You sure made some good points. There is a big difference between being a wheel turner and a truck driver/owner-operator. When you break down, and you know that you’re gonna use a garage to do the repairs, know what you can and will do on your own, but also work with someone you trust to do the repairs RIGHT and not take you to the bank! If you have a backup truck or plan, that’s important, too. I’ve never heard that a Volvo was a nicer truck, lasted longer, got better mileage , was more aerodynamic or worked better than any other. I’m glad it works for you and that’s the important thing. I’ve been in a couple of Volvos and just really didn’t care for them at all. Good stuff. Thanks for the info. Stay safe, my friend.
I like this guy. No BS but straight talk.
I needed this! Love the honesty and hard truth! Gonna keep this in my prayers and really evaluate everything you mentioned. Thank you sir
Thanks for checking out the video Orlando!
I'm a oilfield man for the last 20 years of my 25 years of driving and hauling crude oil in the big oil booms I've personally seen guys make 60 thousand dollars a month but then it may not be there next year and then your back hauling groceries cheers and hats off to all you owner operator's
Respect man, these are exactly my words. I just had bad luck on my private side that puts me in a situation with my company which caused 5 months with no cash flow. This results in bankruptcy after 7 yrs of being a o/o. Like you said 50k!!!!!!! The engine went with 1.4 mio km. All said
Damb so your wngine blew and then you didn't have work for 5 months..?
I'm doing my research on becoming an owner operator. Have read and watched videos on becoming an owner operator. And so far a lot of negative. Now your video here, has let's call it educational information for the guy that has no clue at all of becoming an owner operator, such as I. I subscribed to your channel, and will be watching more of your videos.
If you tell the truck dealership the DOT number of where you plan to lease to, you are exempt from sales tax. But all the rest is right on. 2 years so far, maintenance account is building well and profit is good.
In that state, but if you're like me and buy your truck out of state, go back to Florida, boom 5k in taxes.
Still absolutely green and wet behind the ears when it come to the trucking industry. A fast learner i can say but I definitely learned at from this video. My goal is to own my own truck in the future. My first obstacle is finding the correct pay far as company driver. I'm on my 2nd company now cause the first were only paying 500-700 a week beginning a regional driver. So now I'm patiently waiting to see what other opportunities are out there while building up my experience behind the trucks/over the road. But I was always told that the sky is the limit with owning your own truck. To everyone God Bless.
Are you looking to stay regional?
Thanks for your honesty.
This specific channel... I love it. They all saying truth. Truth. This is how they getting respect from subscribers. ET transportation will grow very fast, unless they start lying.
Very informative video . I’ve been driving 16 years and decided to become a owner operator. Terrified doesn’t describe how I’m feeling . I pick up the truck in a couple days with the 2 year red oval warranty so a little insurance.
Best of luck Jeremy! You can do it!
Keep a good maintenance account and consider that money already owed. I put 20 cents a mile in mine. Otherwise, you're gonna wanna cry when you get that $3000 bill your weren't expecting.
Tow truck tried 2 charge me $700 to go 4 miles. I changed the alternator on the side of the road. This man is speaking the truth about being an owner operator.
Very informative video! Im in the early stages of putting things together to buy a truck and go on my own. It's a scary step, but a necessary stepI truly believe!
Great advice for the new owner operators. Bought my first truck in 1994. It was an 89 GMC / Volvo W164T model, 9 speed with a 350 Cummings. Paid $27,000 for it in Jacksonville , Florida. I have bought many more trucks after that with different outcomes. Trailers as well. I have 10 more years in this, then I am going to retire. Thank you for the video.
Thanks for sharing
Great advice not even one thumbs down yet and it's been a month you're doing something right.
Thank you so much for the valuable info about becoming an Owner Opt. I now have a Blueprint on how to proceed further in my pursuit of becoming an Owner Opt.
Good video, it covers pretty much all of the bases. One thing that needs to be stressed, YOU ARE the warranty center. You better have the tools and diagnostics to work on these new EPA motors. Know what an EGR tuneup is, how to diagnose properly, etc. If you think a warranty is going to save your butt, you are being a fool, no, a damn fool. There are very few shops in this country, or Canada, that can properly diagnose and properly fix an EPA motor or emission system. Drill that into your head, do not buy that warranty, you are the warranty if you are going to keep the truck past 3 years. These emission trucks have a 500,000 mile cycle, not the 1 million miles of of the old iron. Why do you think you see all of those trucks for sale with 300,000 to 500,000 miles on them? Because they are slap wore out, that is why! Many will require an in frame the minute you drive them off the lot. Don't laugh, that is a true statement. You better know what the hell you are doing when you buy a used truck, and for God's sake, pick the appropriate gearing and transmission for what YOU intend to do with it! And stay away from these trucks with automatic and 2:20 rear ends, those trucks have been beaten to death being lugged around their entire life. Try and find a manual transmission with at least 3:42 gears or lower, 3:55 is ideal for most applications out here. Do your due diligence, don't be that guy.
Wow a likeable trucker...my heart is warm...I love being an owner operator.. knowing your cost is paramount...ty for the info...be blessed and well.
Thank you!
I like to think of being an owner operator as being a starship captain, except your really the only person on the ship, so you have to cover the whole ship. Starfleet tells you where to drive, everything......everything else is up to you. If you didn't get the starfleet reference sorry not sorry.
Kirk has green space herpes😂
Love your Channel man ,…. First time I watched. I’m from Kentucky and watching from “ The Bluegrass State “ my friend.
I’m not a Trucker ,… but I know a lot of truckers and love to listen to their stories. I work in a warehouse and I have been there for over 36 years and heard a lot of stuff . I do respect you Truckers everyday and I talk to a lot of you on The CB Radio as you guys come though Town here in Kentucky and The Greater Cincinnati Area . God Bless you all and be Safe on the roads my friends ,… and share the good information with your fellow truck drivers …….. Remember we are all in this together. If we don’t have good truck drivers ,…. We don’t have any GOODS to Buy . “ Everything moves by Truck “. Don’t forget that people “. !!!! God Bless American 🇺🇸
VERY INFORMATIVE . YOU R A GOOD MAN. AND U R RIGHT.
excellent information
I'm just starting out, scared as hell to even be a company driver but I'm taking the plunge. Maybe O/O is in the cards later but I've never even sat in a semi before, let alone driven one
Are you working for a company? Driving there trucks?
@@harrisn9783 what area? thinking of changing careers and being an O/O someday soon but might want to start as a company driver to make sure I will like it...
I watched 3 times things are clear to me , thank so much for this valuable information!
Leave a msg directly ◽◽⤴⤴ for proper guidance
Great video! I'm new to the trucking industry and have been doing some research on O/Os. I've asked a couple of other RUclips O/O's about their expense ratios, but neither one replied back. I was hoping that maybe you can shed some light on the low to high range expense ratio of an O/O in your experience and possibly with your friends that are O/Os as well??
Man im just a young gun myself who is super interested in trucking and plan to do it and i appreciate your seriousness and honesty in these videos makes it way easier to understand and plan for because nothin in this life comes free. Keep it up ET!
Any truck, 475 to 500 hp, 13 speed transmission, 3.73 rear-end. That spec will do any type of pulling you want.
General freight ?
@@fbgmonkey General Freight, Doubles/Triples, tanker, flatbed hauling steel...
New Company Driver here learning everything I can paying dues to get where I need to go. Thanks for your videos. Needed this 🚛 experience & advice💯
Welcome to the industry! We’re glad you enjoy watching our videos.
What company are you currently driving for?
I can honestly say that I really doubt that that’s going to be your last truck. My father said he same thing and even quit and got a good job in heavy equipment operator and he still got another truck and went back on the road. It’s my belief that it gets in your blood and you end up doing it till can’t no more anyway good luck and happy trails
I'm so happy that I never gave up on myself, and stayed away from this industry. I love these videos, because it brings me back to when I was in my early 20's trying to figure out what I wanted to do with my life. I support this channel, because it reminds me what could have been.
Thanks master, from boston ma. Good explanation 🙌
Straight jewel... Thanks very helpful
One of the best Videos about trucking In US by the way im not even a trucker or willing to be but I love Love trucks and hearing the News and how you run ur businesses + i following alot of trackers and Also im not Even in USA or any around LOL xD
You guy’s should break down speaks for us new driver’s who don’t know anything about truck’s and just got the license recently please 🙏. I absolutely love your Chanel guy’s
I never common on RUclips But this guy is amazing God-bless you Sir
3-5 yrs as a co driver before oo is best advice, I see ppl say they drove 3 months as co before thinking they know everything there is to know about trucking, I bet they don't last, I've asked a few that put up comments 3 or more years ago, asking if they still operating. None answered
Being an o/o your a business person, driving truck is just the side job, be ready to lose everything. Find a good mechanic, and a loan officer that knows you.
I’m glad you opted for a freight liner
I've personally seen lease operators and owners operators go weeks without pay,because they didn't maintain a maintenance account.
Yeah you need $20k minimum. Even with a warranty you'd need about $8k out of pocket to cover a complete rebuild.
I’ve saved enough in less than a year to buy a good used truck. Now I’m just building funds for maintenance and expenses, including a generous down payment on a flatbed trailer.
After trucking across America, you are the only person speaking favorably for Volvo trucks. The ONLY one. Lol but if it works for you!
For me, comfort is superseded by reliability. I'll lease a perfect truck before I buy/invest in a used truck. My first break down was a nightmare, heart ache, headache, and wallet ache. I now keep all my warranties in a binder.
very informative, thank you
I once read from a blog that before you become an O/O, you better have AT LEAST $50,000 in your bank account to cover lack of loads or maintenance, etc.
I love it , thank you so much
Thank you brother, I’ve been thinking about making the transition to owner operator for a few years. Solid information.