owner operators

[CaDriver]

I have only been driving class a for 2 years and only have 7 months otr experience, I was wondering which companies would be best for me as an owner operator.

[JLKKLJ777]

This is kind of a loaded question. First off many owner operator companies require some experience AS an owner operator first. The best companies out there would be places like ATS, Landstar, Dynamic, Roadrunner, Dart, Fedex custom critical, Panther expedited, etc.

In some cases you would actually need a truck first to even be considered. Other companies will offer you a "lease purchase" program which basically means you would be operating a company specced used truck but paying for all the expenses without any of the benefits like medical, dental, vision, life, disability, workers comp, or perks like paid days off, vacations, pensions or 401k's.

The best way to become an owner operator is to buy and finance a truck personally through a dealership. Make sure you get an extended warranty on the truck if possible. Be sure you have at least 10 grand set aside in a maintenace account. Be sure your personal finances are under control. Then, if you do not want to run as a complete independant (buying own plates, permits, insurances, getting own operating authority, etc) then lease that truck to the carrier of your choice.

[97classic]

well, I know landstar won't hire ya unless you have 1 year verifiable OTR in the last 5 years because I had 11 months and they wouldn't hire me! Just wanted to throw that out there! Also you could get a used truck for cash off someone you personally know and run it with a small company around you and you could get the exp from there! But a warranty on a truck is nice, but the payments are high! Something to consider there too! I know JB HUNT will hire you OO or company with just 3 months exp... Good luck!

[pro1driver]

Originally Posted by CaDriver

I have only been driving class a for 2 years and only have 7 months otr experience, I was wondering which companies would be best for me as an owner operator.

you need EXCELLENT CREDIT these days FIRST...as the home mortgage crisis made all banks buckle down in thier lending practices. then too the economy is so bad right now, banks may not be too willing to lend you, a person with no practical expereince any money. its been said that most "start up" companies fail with-in the first year....right now, you are a huge liability. you may need more than the usual 20% down payment. you might be required to have additional loan insurance. you might be required to keep money in escrow, and so the list of requirements goes on and on....

you have only 7 months of actual experience...what happened the rest off that 2 year period....?? the banks will WANT TO KNOW....anything they deem as B.S, they will deny your loan.

your best bet, stay a company driver for 1 full year......save up some money....then maybe try a lease purchase plan....those suck, but you'll get experience as a lease operator you can build on for the future....

right now, you ain't got a snowball's chance in the Mojave Desert.........


GEESH....i just saw where this original poster was here JUNE 1st.......!!! and not since then...???