Issue link: https://read.dmtmag.com/i/671338
Feature you the most? If you're considering becoming an expedite owner-operator but not ready to take the plunge and invest six figures in a new straight truck, a lower risk option is an expedite van. You can get into a fully equipped van for under $70,000. And if it's rated under 10,001 gross vehicle weight, you can avoid many of the Department of Transporta- tion (DOT) regulations, such as hours of service requirements, which add a lot of complexity and cost to your business. But, with a van, your loads are lim- ited to freight that can fit into a van -- such as auto parts, overnight packages, or medical supplies and equipment -- typically for shorter distance routes. If you're looking for greater flex- ibility and a wider range of loads you can accept, then consider a paying the money for a Class-7 expediter straight truck with a sleeper. The first step in truck selection is to work with truck dealers that specialize in the expedite market. (To search expedite truck deal- ers and trucks online, Click Here.) This is because they have a finger on the pulse of the industry and have honed their truck specifications over the years to strike the optimal balance among key points, such as truck price, perfor- mance, fuel economy, longevity, and comfort. A used expediter straight truck is another option to consider. The lower price of a used truck can help a new expediter get into the business sooner. However, the resale market for quality low-mileage used trucks is still tight. So, the challenge is finding an avail- able used truck that will fit your budget and be reliable for your business. If you decide to go the used truck route, make sure it's equipped with a heavy- duty powertrain, complies with your carrier's requirements, and has been well maintained to minimize unpleas- ant surprises. 3. Solo vs. Team More potential loads, higher pay rates, less impact from hours of service rules -- these are just a few advantages of team driving compared to going solo. But team driving isn't for anyone. And savvy solo expediters can still do very well for themselves financially. How can you tell which is better for you? Keep these points in mind: • Are you o.k. with sharing decision- making responsibilities (on which loads you accept and other business decisions) or do you prefer making your own decisions? This is the most critical question because if you don't like the idea of sharing decision- making, then a team setup is defi- nitely not for you. • Can you sleep well in a moving ve- hicle? An advantage for solo drivers is that they get to sleep in a non- moving vehicle. But experienced teams know how to help each other get quality sleep while the truck is still on the road. The key is for the driver to be considerate of the sleep- ing partner by operating the truck in a smooth manner, avoiding rapid acceleration, hard braking and rough lane changes. 12 April 2016 BestDriverJOBS www.bestdriverjobs.com