Issue link: https://read.dmtmag.com/i/671338
Feature 10 April 2016 BestDriverJOBS www.bestdriverjobs.com Y ou're considering becoming an expediter to be your own boss, set your own schedule, see the country. Or, perhaps, you even dream of owning your own fleet of trucks in the future. Whatever your ambitions, the expe- dite business is just that -- a business -- and that involves both risks and rewards. So, as you evaluate expedited truck- ing as a business opportunity, we've put together this 5-point checklist to help you look at the business with your "eyes wide open." This way, if you decide to move forward, you'll put yourself in the best position to reduce risks and maximize your potential rewards. 1. Lifestyle Considera ons Expedited trucking can be highly profitable, if you're smart about how you run your business. But there are also challenges, such as the periodic long wait times between loads. For some folks, that's no big deal. But if you don't plan and prepare financially for those downtimes, you'll be caught off guard by the uneven cash flow, which will put your business at risk. You also need to consider that you'll be away from home for weeks at a time. And if you plan to operate as a team driver, you'll have to be comfort- able with working in close spaces with a partner for long periods of time. Is this a lifestyle you're willing to adapt to for the potential financial re- wards? How can you know for sure? Consider "test driving" the expe- diter life by driving for a fleet owner first. This real-world experience will be valuable in assessing whether you can succeed in the business before you make a major long-term investment in a truck. To find prospective fleet own- ers to drive for, consult with trucking carriers and network with other drivers to get connected with fleet owners who are looking for drivers. 2. Vehicle Selec on What type of expediting interests By Sean M. Lyden, courtesy of On Time Media