Many truckers crave independence, so it’s natural if you have been driving for someone else to transition to working for yourself. While this shift to being an owner-operator brings many advantages, as a provider of truck services, we want you to consider the following before you get your operation up and running:
- Get a health assessment—Trucking requires long days (and long nights), and you need to be in good health to handle the rigors of the road. Before you head out on your first route, see your physician for a physical. You should also make a plan for exercising and eating right when you’re out on the road.
- Put together a plan—To focus your efforts, put together a plan for your trucking business. Figure out your ideal customers, how you’re different from the competition, and what type of contracts you want to establish.
- Pick the right truck—There are many ways you can secure a truck for your use as an owner-operator, including signing a lease with a third party, buying your equipment outright through a loan, or becoming a motor carrier. Think about which option is right for you.
- Figure out your financials—It’s a good idea to talk to an accountant who can help you set up your financial records, put together a system for taxes, and help you file appropriate documents based on the business structure you set up.
- Solidify a truck services provider—Your truck will need regular maintenance, and even then, it’s inevitable it will break down at some point. Figure out who will be your truck services provider before you head out on the road, so you don’t have to worry about finding the right place to go.
