I'm a retired trucker. I feel your pain and for everyone else in this tough job as well. The lack of respect for the industry is abominable .Accolades to all of you. I fed your parents and now you are feeding me.
... But society knows as well - and tends to exploit that. So 'I am not working for my truck, but my truck has to work for me' continues to be of an overwhelming importance as my main guiding principle - true or false?
@@JamesBrown-ux9ds EXACTLY! Any moron can say they do something for the love of anything, whether it's being a lawyer, teacher (another THANKLESS profession), cop, fire fighter, nurse, nurse practitioner, paralegal, pipefitter, welder etc. Yeah you have to someone like what you do but ultimately if we want to be nitty-gritty about it, we're all in it for the money making portion. End of conversation
Thank you..exactly how I feel about my truck.i love working on my truck and I love staying in it and traveling.. espically during the cold season’s. One downfall is Finding a company that accepts older equipment.. I have a 359 that I truly love. And I don’t wanna get rid of it.
rags 1977 Respects for you for being out on the road for that long. I did it for a year and I just couldn’t keep doing it. Im a father and husband so I came local so Im staying local.
@@youngpatrick29 When people say they're not in it for the money they mean they're more interested in making a reasonable living doing what they love despite being able to earn more doing what they hate. Of course no one (okay very few people) is in it at an intentional loss just because it's fun to them.
I’ve only been an Owner Op for 35 years or so, and I don’t know everything, but everything this man says is true. It has very little to do about how much money you can stuff in the mattress,,, it’s about the Chess game you play with brokers, DOT, the IRS, and everyone else every day. I’ve never been good with someone telling me what to do or where to go. It’s not for everyone, but it works for me.
Great video - our company drivers often ask us whether it's worth switching to being an owner-operator; we always say to make sure to have money set aside for maintenance; we see guys going into being owner-ops with minimal maintenance savings, which is always a dangerous game to play.
Great video! Very truthful. As an independent O/O with my own authority since 1994. There’s lots of expenses. My trick to success is being debt free. No truck payment for 20 years. Plus do all my own repairs and maintenance. Mechanical knowledge is a huge advantage in this business. I currently run a 84 Pete 362 Cabover. Very simple to work on. Getting parts are a challenge tho.
Another big issue with older trucks is insurance. Lots of insurance companies want 2010 or newer. I pay more for an older truck. That being said the cool factor and no truck payment is worth it.
That is cool. First truck I ever sat in was a Peterbilt cabover logging truck back in 96. The dream started there when I was 5 and my uncle let me rip that horn and start it up. After years in the oilfield I decided I wanted to go back to that dream and got on with a flatbed company back in western Montana and the plan was to go owner operator after a couple years, but the company treats is well so I'm still a company driver saving up for all the old cabovers I can find in my area. I've collected 2 70s internationals and one freightliner that is definitely 80s, but not sure what year. I always love reading these comments and the older generations years on the road and watching the videos. A tremendous amount of information and just down right cool stories and information that brings back memories. Thank you both!
I’m looking to become an owner operator and watching this video has inspired me more now. I’ve heard so much negative feedback that I became discouraged but I know I’ll regret it if I don’t even attempt trying something that I’m really passionate about. And trucking is something I love! ❤️ Thank you for this video!
Semi Hauler I am a o/o . You really have to love it. I have been in business for many years. It has its ups and downs. For me it’s worth it. I am to independent. I can’t imagine being a company driver. For myself I have owned a few trucks. The best trucks I have had is the kenworth w900l. Well if you really feel like this is what you want to do go for it. You will never know until you do it. Dreaming about it is all you have is a dream.
Big Bear Sounds great. Glad you didn’t give up due to the downs but I guess it wouldn’t be life if we didn’t have them...lol Anyways I was thinking about starting with a Freightliner or an International because of the lower cost but I’d rather have a Peterbilt or a Kenworth, they just seem to be more expensive. If you know of anywhere that has good a price range please share! 🤗 Stay safe out there!
Jim Boyy That’s great to start out so young and be successful with your business. I wish I had started out a lot sooner but I guess better late than never...lol. Keep up with your hard work, it’s definitely a rewarding feeling knowing that what you’ve put into your business is paying off! Never let anyone discourage you, always do what’s best for you. Safe travels to you!
Most people see a business owner and think about the money coming in... nobody sees the expenses and the fact you are the solely responsible for said business. When bad times comes around you are the one who has to solve the problems. No supervisor or boss to ask for solutions , you got to figure stuff by yourself. Being a business owner is not for everyone. Sounds good to everyone, but is not everyone.
Well said Old mate Every body thinks being in business is easy look at all the risks that nobody's puts that in account Well I got fucking News for them
Couldn't agree more with you Kurt. It's all about pride.My 909 is nearly a year old and has 20,000 miles on it, i never drive it if it looks like it's going to rain, purchased new and had it resprayed and PPF wrapped. Truck driving is not my main source of income, farming is but i use my truck to transport from farm to farm. Driving it for me calms me and makes me feel great. Just looking at it parked in the shed is like looking at a great piece of art...that is till the princess shatters my dreams :-)
I Live in England and work for one of the best shipping container transport companies. Over 6 months I kept a log of my wages and fuel / milleage costs etc. It worked out financially that being an owner driver would profit me slightly. The English wages are good and makes owning 1 truck not viable. However owning 3 running shiping containers would be great. But for me, owning or working for a company is not the point, its being on the road. You are right in all that you say brother. Big Love and God Bless from this here UK trucker.. 10-10
Real talk, about the life of an Owner Operator. Particularly being INDEPENDENT. It's like being married. You take the bad with the good. Some days you're feeling it, some days not so much. It's very rewarding though, for those who like to think for themselves. #Independent Truckers. 😎
Just keep the teases coming...... I put my seat belt together sit on the lap part and swing over the shoulder for looks. At night not so much.lol.... For me if I were to go owner-operator it would be so I can control the landing of the airplane in the taking off of the airplane I figured the money might be about the same less at first more later on ??? I am debt-free with about 15,000 in the bank I stay at my girlfriend's house for about 400 a month so I could potentially go get a loan for about an $80,000 tractor in about a $20,000 trailer and start the business but then you're always you know under somebody else's thumb and you're always like you say dodging dodging the law don't want anything to do with them people they are money pits.. great show.. I have a co-worker who has his own UA-cam show and he's consistently making about a thousand a month just youtubing so my hat's off to you if you want to do your own podcast knock yourself out right enjoy the money while it's there cool stuff it's like watching TV only with lots of information PS.. I live in Omaha Nebraska so it should be a good fit for Trucking I usually go out as a company driver for about 5 or 6 days sometimes 9 or 12 my favorite number is no more than 12 but my other favorite number is every weekend so every 6 days, we have a pretty good customer base so it's pretty doable.. looking to buy a pickup truck first so I might put off being an owner operator plus I'm getting older and my thyroid is weird might not do it... See you on the next back hall
We had a very long talk before I became an O/O and I had the support of my wife and family - I wouldn't be a trucker any other way. You have the freedom that most company drivers will never see - and there are exceptions but you also have the freedom to go broke. More than that I've always had a strong sense of pride that I was part of making the world go round one load at a time. It's not always about the money. I too know who you got your truck from - they specialize in the hoods'
Big respect to you sr... God Bless you and your family...! Being an Owner Operator will always be worth it, that's the result when you learn your lesson and get's tired of being push.. and push... around as a company driver. although God hates the sin of pride and will discipline the proud! Let us not see ourselves as wise in our own eyes, but let us become Humble and willing to learn from God and others...
When I started as a owner operator I had $5000 dollar in my savings is being 11 years in proud of my self I do have a old Freightliner 2001 century but let me tell you I trust my shaker lol
@@TuffBurnOutTeam could you please keep your foulness to yourself i am sure there are younger viewers as well as women who watch these videos i drive trucks and i certainly dont talk like that thank you
Bro 😎 I love this video you’ve definitely inspired me man I was a company driver and felt the same way getting pushed around and dispatched all crazy routes so I finally pulled the trigger and brought a Kenworth T660 can’t thank you 🙏 enough brother remain blessed and humble my guy
Yeah and there was no reason to say quit being a Karen God these people that talk like that are disgusting that is your typical BLM activist running their mouth with no actual facts behind their claims
Karen was a middle age woman being constantly harassed by a high school kid... the kid only posted her going off and not what he did to her... her name was karen...further along the kid ended up killing her husband.... it's a very stupid term with a sad back story.
Karen term came from women that over exaggerate situations, try to push the needle to make men react to a lie that they came up with and accuse men of something they didn’t do to get a reaction while recording them on camera. Karens are annoying and always complain about anything. Middle age racist white women that tries to use her race to get her way with the police when dealing with a black person also. Lol
I can relate to everything he says in this video. Well put driver. In my case I got lucky u could say. 3 yrs. ago I bought an older truck from an old timer that was retiring. Original owner. It's a KW 900L. It's got a 550 hp Cat in it w an18 speed. It's a heavy haul version chassis. The only major work that went into the truck, was the power divider... However anything else was basic maintenance. The truck had a very well documented history on it. Previous owner gave me 2 manuscript sized folders with the entire history of the truck since new. I was impressed, to say the least. The engine was redone at 1.35 mil. and right now she's got 1.825.000 on her and she still runs strong. I acquired the truck at 1.520.000 miles. It burns less than a quart of oil between oil changes. Not 2 shabby 4 an old beater... Lol ! Pimped her out a little 2. LEDs, head lights, Chrome etc. It's an O/O thing I know... Lol ! My pride & joy 4 sure 😃 Keep on trucking brother !!!
Wow man, that's awesome! I'm starting to think about bringing my 1st class and I was wondering how many times should I go drive for compagnie before buying my own truck ? I'm a financial advisor right now and it's been 7 years I'm my own boss, working to make things good and live for freedom! I'm tired of this and I dream about a nice and clean W900 or a 389. Pick up my load and going west coast !!
Hey, watched your video about being an owner/operator. Long story short , I stumbled on your channel and love the content!! I am a contractor in VA (started about 3 years ago). I just want to commend you on giving honest pros/cons about owner/operator ship. I feel that the concept of pride, stress, and money making/flexibility can be applied across a broad field, and that a lot of people need to know that it doesn't take a ton of money to make a dream happen. It takes determination, drive and work ethic, which is something that is downplayed in our society today. Love your videos and keep it up!!!
Been driving trucks for 41 years. I am 64 years old now. All but about 6 of those 41 years have been as an owner operator of one type or another. Have been pulling my own flatbed in the 48 while leased to a major carrier for the last 27 years. I like being an o/o because of the freedom involved. Being your own boss, choosing your own loads and running where you want to. Not going where you dont want to go. Deciding for yourself when to take a load to leave home with or stay around the house for another week . Managing your own schedule and not being run by a dispatcher. Deciding for yourself when to go home and how long to stay. Even if it involves deadheading. Deciding for yourself if a particular load is profitable or not. I like being leased to a big company for a lot of reasons. Like discounts on fuel and tires. Not having to purchase liability insurance. Not having to depend on just one customer and not having a customer depending on just you all the time. Quik pay and not chasing money. Not having to do my own billing anymore. Trucking has been both good and challenging for me at times. I enjoy watching Schmidt and other youtubers to get a fellow drivers perspectives on things, and to try and learn something I didn't know. I think Schmidt does a good job making his videos. Really like his truck, almost as much as he does.
I've thought many times about buying my own truck but after over 20 years of driving these things I'm almost done. Both of my kids are grown and gone, my bills are low enough to get a regular 8-5 so that's what I'm going to do. I'm even getting rid of my CDL..lol I've had them since I was 18 years old and I'm 43 now, time to give it up.
I love you, as a fellow driver. You tell it the way it is, also truthful about it for yourself. I've told you before, I was O/O struggled a lot but at the end of the day I happy. Keep it rolling that is what we do.
I want to eventually become an owner-operator because of the flexibility it offers. My grandfather owned a fleet and my dad drove for him. Not only did he make good money but also had the ability to take the time off as needed for the family. With that said, this was a while and regulations were different. This was back in the day when most truckers ran two logs and were on paper.
I’m so blessed to have the opportunity to get my cdl and get the ball rolling to be a owner operator I have my own truck unfortunately still hunting down for a good affordable trailer witch is hard right now with this kind of market but I’m truly blessed
Driver, I love your spirit. I wish you nothing but great success out there. I believe it’s about what you get out of it, it’s what you put into it at the end of the day as a OO. Lord willing I will make the move as a OO next year. Keep trucking and God bless you and your family. Keep the rubber to the driver10-4
This is a business, pure and simple, you run it properly, you win. Now, the truck and the maintenance... If you do not know how to wrench, willing to learn the systems if you drive an EPA truck, if you do not, you will loose rather quickly. Fuel mileage... Fuel is your biggest expense, I love a hood, but I would never own another due to fuel mileage. That extra mile or two a gallon can honestly make or break you, especially if you are paying the cash price at the pump. Take control of your business, including learning how to work on the truck and drive responsibly, not 75 mph everywhere you go. If you have to drive like that, you are in the wrong line of work. Lease on to a carrier first, learn how to be profitable, and if you are comfortable and have the money put away to survive a few months, go get the authority. It is not easy, like he says, and it is not getting any easier out here.
That’s why I run 80mph. You think you have all the answers you don’t. Everyone runs different an just cause they run different then you doesn’t mean they will fail. Your way isn’t the only way
And it’s a lot easier to get authority now than it was when I started driving in the 70’s. You only had a few big carriers that had authority and if you wanted your own authority you had to buy operating authority,
That's a beautiful truck. Sounds and shifts great. In 2008 i started on a 10,000dll 1995 fld120 10spd w cat 3806E or something like that. One time I lost all my belts and had to use the leather belt I was wearing to run the power steering and alternator for about 60 miles to next parts counter lol. Good thing I had a 38" waist haha. Keep on truckin.
My experience with trucks is when buying something used expect to put a lot of money into it to get it to be reliable , or expect to break down a lot your first year or two . After that expect to change a lot of parts every year after that just so you dont break down while on the road .
Thanks for the video and information. I enjoyed it. Nice to hear a oo not giving the tradition spill on becoming an oo as you put in your video. You know you got to have bags of cash to get started and all. I mean I'm sure in a perfect world that's the way to do it but in the real world doesn't quite work out that way for the most part I bet. You confirmed that. It was needed for me anyways to hear it. I'm not an owner operator yet but I am heading in that direction. Just seems like the natural progression of things for me anyways. Is there a lot of stress being an owner operator? yes.. Is there a lot of stress being a company driver? yes.. When I start thinking or worrying about the stress I will encounter running my own rig I think about some of the incredibly stressful situations I've been in driving a company truck and then I laugh.. Because I can't imagine anything worse then what I've already gone through successfully. I mean I could as I'm sure you could tell some serious horror story's and yes that was in a company truck. I heard something from an oo I thought was interesting and true, he said being an oo is about freedom not money but freedom. Thanks again. You've got a new subscriber.
Nothing like hearing the truck wind up when going up the on-ramp getting your speed up to start your day. I actually never play my radio in my new 2020 truck. I’d rather listen to the truck. Your tuck sounds great.
Major point here... The real question is not how much to PUT your name on the door... It is actually what does it take to KEEP your name on the door. If only it was all about money...
Thanks for the info bro’…. Stay safe hope you doing good. I’m a new trucker owner operator here in San Diego, California. My 2016 Peterbilt is like my wife, I have to spend money to keep it at 💯….. I love the freedom and that I don’t have to report to anyone 💪🙌
i think Jimmy Buffet said take a breath, breathe out and walk on....you obviously know what you want to do...you are still in it. I never knew what a "Jake brake" was; or what it was for. But one of your segments i thunk you were driving at night talkin about signs that some towns have that donot allow the use of a Jake brake. And the guy you knew about who always used them because you could hear him driving. So i appreciate that, and its the small things like that which some of us are learning because you are there. Even JBG didnt mention that one. He always at a stop for fuel, has little mention about thing with the truck to check and remember. And he always cleans his windows and mirrors. So it isnt only the delivery as the context, but all those other things you guys mention, because its your life out there. My middle brother said often enough, there arent too many professional** drivers left out there. Most its a job for money for bills, etc. You like trucks, you work on your own truck, i think that means something of worth. I'll shut up🤫 again enjoying your World; and i am learning sooo much, and thanks Mr. Schmidt🖐 Ross
I've been watching your videos for awhile now. Man I've been subscribed for awhile watching a much as i can finally getting to back watching videos I've missed. Man i tell you what, I've been wanting my cdl for years since i had my driver's license 2 days after i turned 16. Everyone always talked me out of it. The reasons, the advice you hand out in this video is my exact mind frame since back then. I've always dreamed of my name on the side of my own truck. Thanks man, you just made me go with my instinct, 18 years later lol. Thank you. Safe travels i know this vids older one 😆
Damn man you sincerely broke everything down for me. I just started driving bout six months ago. And I would love to become an O/O yes because I would like to make a decent living but most importantly because I would love to be able to spend more time with the family. All I’m looking for is some guidance I don’t have a lot of mechanical knowledge but if I’m taught right I can learn anything. Obviously they are just something you have to pay somebody else to do the job for you but I would love to try and save some $$ on fixing things myself if I can fix them.
Become an owner and your mechanical experience will climb by leaps and bounds lol. Ive had to come up with some creative ways to fix the trucks on the side of the road in the middle of the night several times. Luckily this w9 has been treating me good now. Good luck and thank you for watching.
I’ll talk money, a year before I bought my trucks I researched every aspect of the industry, mind you this is after 20 years as a line driver, 2 million miles of safe driving and making $129,000 a year 2,690 miles a week, home on the weekends. So after researching for a year , I looked for serious liked minded drivers and then looked for niche companies on my own, no brokers no dispatchers, interviewed some factoring companies.. and then took $250,000 put it into a business account ( added some secret sauce) long story short, 8 trucks 4 teams and 4 line drivers.. My very 1st week my net was $30,000 I’ve yet to make less.. The key? Find drivers that want to make money, Know your worth, your operating costs, know the market and don’t pay for things you can do yourself. Here’s a hint for you find out who’s budgeting what for new distribution centers..
Yea it does hope for the best . I just got my cdl linces 2 months ago now I’m in Cali trading for 2 months hoping to get my own truck one day and make more money . Wish it be a owner operator one day ..
Thank you!! Yes I am sure I know where you got your truck from. I will stay away from them. I was going to ask you about the 40 grand you put in it. Which believe me I know where it goes. I been a o/o for many years. For me it’s the only way to go. I am not or could not be a company driver.
I prefer to buy old truck from private party who can give me long history of the truck in past I bought 3 trucks all 2014 but I'm tired of def so decide to go with 07 and older found it 5 hours from my home it was drive able but need in frame and that's what I'm looking for because 1 I can negotiate better and 2 I know for sure that in frame is done the dealer you are talking about I see there adds all the time and every truck they have it's got in frame done 3 - 4 hundred thousand miles ago and that gives me red flag anyway hopefully I'll gonna make video about my truck soon and let everyone know about my experience good or bad.Thank You for posting great video.
Where it starts,, The first thing drivers start to do after they have been driving for a while , get my own truck and do it myself. There is a lot more into then what meets the eye. What it takes , Record keeping , a good book keeper. Good load contacts, good shop and maintenance , GOOD load contacts, reliable brokers . Managing your money, so that you have a escrow. And Safe Driving. All of these things will play a big role in being successful ; Public relations is absolutly important. You have to learn to NOT judge others , everyone is different. When you do something you have to do it to the limit of your expertise. It takes all of this and then some that can't be put in words.
looked up this vid because I am researching because I am in the process of helping my father get a business license to possibly getting a truck. Great tips and info so far. Do it for the pride of having your own business and making your own scheduled etc. will be noted.
I started out by taking over my dad's 2 worn out trucks. He was facing bankruptcy and the banker was cool enough to let a 18 year old kid take the reigns.. my dad.. ALOT less so!! (We hadn't spoken in 3 years and didn't speak until I was 30 and had to take care of him..). I fixed those two trucks out of a junkyard, a lot of learning and alot of work!! I built into a 40 truck company with 4 terminals and a operation in Canada.. not bad..huh
My aunt was my support and my office matron for many years.. she never doubted me, just kept us afloat somehow. She thought some of my ideas were harebrained, but just rolled her eyes and kept us afloat..
I got a CDL just recently and I’m already thinking of being an O/O . I’m thinking of owning my own dump truck and just being a for-hire dump truck driver and hauling gravel for whoever needs it and even up through the woods. Yes I’m thinking staying on the local side of trucking.
we have a lot in common old mate,I have been listening to you upshifting you let the engine torque do the work no need to flog the bag out of the excelerator
I understand The same desire you got to put your name on the door is the same “ desire “ I have to not want to, those two different desires come the same place Ps. 37:4
I'm an old school retired guy Bud, But my hat's off to you. Bottom line you did what you had to do, in other words you thought outside the box. If I ever decided to go back to work it would be an old truck with a mechanical engine so I can still repair it. Good Luck and God Bless Bud, keep the greasy side down.
I live in Ohio and my dad was a truck driver and there is a lot of places here that will sell u junk to make a living with so be glad yours was able to be fixed lol
I’d like to be an owner operator for the Freedom. Forget money, yeah I know it’s great money, but there’s a sense of pride knowing that I don’t have to ask no boss for vacation time nor do I have to be getting calls asking when will I get back to the truck. I’d just like to work for myself. What do you guys think.
You'll probably find that it's not that easy or glamorous. Sure, you can decide when to work. But working isn't generating revenue like paid time off at a company. And when your truck goes down, that's unexpected involuntary vacation time. Plus a fat bill at the end.
@@dchawk81 I’m on month 2 bro, you’re definitely right , but I’ve been enjoying it so far. I was in the hole for like 2 weeks just got out. Survived off some damn sandwiches lol. But I’m lucky bro, I have no kids or any HUGE bills, that’s why I’m ok right now. Definitely an eye opener
Really enjoyed this...it’s real stuff that you share. Trucking has ups and downs, ways on your family as well as you. Life out on the road isn’t always just getting behind the wheel and moving down the highway. You encounter many things, people, environments, attitudes etc. Sometimes YOU are the only one that you can rely on. It can get really stressful! Sorry to hear that the truck dealer was dishonest. Hope it wasn’t in Columbus, Ohio. You made a good truck out of her, that’s the important thing, and you know what she will need and do. It helps if you can work on your truck at least a little. You can save a lot of money that way! You hinted about paying the home/truck...holding money back for any future truck repairs. Take say 20% out from each pay just for the truck. Do you operate under your own authority or lease? I know some truckers that stay out until they can make money for the return home...they don’t take just any load...don’t take a loss. Do you have another way to get your truck home if you really needed to? You have the Freightliner...do you have a 5th wheel boom or a buddy that could help you? These are some things that you didn’t mention. Hey, if you’re ever in Columbus, Ohio, know that you have a friend here. I live just east of there. The cable was a diagnostic cable for connecting a scanner/computer. Stay safe!
When should a new truck become an owner operator in your opinion? Or what should i have to know that I'm ready for this step?! What the average truck price would you advise me to pay for my first truck?! PS I just got my CDL few days ago.... and if we can talk I'll be grateful, because I wanna be wise in taking decisions but at the same time I wanna put solid infrastructure to my future ASAP.... I don't have family or any commitments so what's you advice to me?
I was kind of forced into it, i used to use owner operators but got stuffed around by booking agents to often. So i went out and bought my own trucks, that way if i want something moved it's moved, there are some owner drivers i know and still call up knowing they won't stuff me about.
Personal experience about seatbelts I to have a problem with seatbelts I cracked my cartilage that holds your ribs together for three weeks I couldn’t take the tugging on my chest. I went to do a stop in New York City and got pulled over. I ended up getting a 500.00 dollar fine with all the little surcharges add to the fine. What the one officer told me is loosen the one that goes across your chest and we can’t give you a fine. If the officer gives you the fine fight it he or she will tell you it’s for not wearing it properly. The law says you have to wear, so for the rest of the time I wore it that way
The economical differences of owning a truck vs driving someone else's truck is simular to the economical differences between renting and owning an atomobile and or renting and owning a home.
I'm looking to buying my first truck. I was hoping to see info like, what percentage goes into fuel, tires, general maintenance etc... but I guess all the depends on the person
I miss them trucks!! I fell while climbing out of a truck one day and fell. Landed on a curb, exploded my t12 vertebra, now am a paraplegic. I still got my CDL but would need hand controls to pass the DOT physical. I would love to buy a truck, especially with the grants and programs available to get disabled folks back to work. So many unknowns to be out there without good legs. A dedicated drop n hook run would be perfect. Think its doable?
Co. vs Owner Op comparison is like National Guard vs Reg Army... “Go hard, or Go Home!!! With that said, you have you have to be smart about it! Know your strengths/ weaknesses. This dude is mechanical inclined; are you!? This dude has tremendous support (emotionally & Logistically); do you!?.... If you don’t, you might have to sign up for the “Reserves,” route! i.e. pimp (Lease) yourself out first, under a carrier, until you build your revenue.
I love how everyone in the comments knew the dealership without you naming the dealership. That's how freaking bad they are. You can still see their humble origins in satellite view. A bunch of crusty KWs scattered around somewhat randomly, waiting for their coverups.
Thx much appreciated, I’m just getting into trucking (switched careers) so it’ll be a while before I approach that annually but still good to know that much is attainable as a co driver
I feel like as far as money goes yeah you’re not probably going to get rich but when you’re an owner operator the more time you’re willing to put on the road the more money you’re going to make so if you let’s say our in later years of your life and you’ve been trying you might not take that extra load or if you want to get home take a trailer that Hass to be dropped somewhere on the way just to get home if that makes sense so really owner operator it’s all about the motivation of the place you are in your life And the miles you’re willing to sacrifice in the name of being home with your family that’s just my opinion Obviously the pride is real when you pull up in a beast like this that is a beautiful truck with your name on it but at the same time you have to remember it’s not just driving and unhooking the trailer there’s tons of paperwork tons of login when you stop when you take a break when you go down and when it breaks you have to pay for the repairs you have to pick up the work you are the driver secretary mechanic CEO and everything else that goes along with it and I love the way you have your truck set up by the way I always say and it is such a pet peeve of mine a double bunk truck that is set up with both beds I love your seat on the bottom and the bed on top
in this case today, yes its worth it if you stay out of California. the advantage of being owner operator which I see, you can fuel at what ever loves station you want and when you want to instead of following the fuel optimiser, and you truck has two fuel tanks instead of one. I'm thinking about buying my own truck if they keep playing games on me on fueling the company truck, especially when the company truck only has one fuel tank instead of two today. you better of being an owner operator untill the company gets a fleet of electric trucks.
If you like looking at corn Iowa is the state for you The first time that I was in Iowa my uncle and I were visiting family in Waterloo Never have I seen so much corn 🌽 on either side of the road
I see fewer and fewer of these traditional american truckers and theyre usually the ones eager to help a fellow trucker. My mom wants her own truck, but we'll see.
@@lydiaanderson9765 hi there Lydia .Just taking it easy here in Alabama going through U Tube and just caught your text ,THANKS for the reply back 😉😊😊😊😁🤗
I can't begin to understand why anyone would want to be an owner operator, or why having your name on the door is important at all, or how you can drive without shoes on.
What's my chances of making it if I buy a 50 or 60k dollar truck paying cash?? Paid in full no payments. Single and no family. I'm afraid it would still run me broke even though I could pretty much live in it. I can take off and have nothing to tie me down. But I'm afraid even though I have no house or bills that I would still struggle. I just want to be free. I don't want to be rich and i don't want to be broke.
I have over 22yrs of driving experience im looking at purchasing a truck , i own a truck about 19yrs ago as a local driver , i want to do my own thing im sick of getting kick around but scared to do it but doing a lot of research, I can't effort to lose well im sure done of us can , I think i found good company/ broker all owner operators no company drivers my truck that im looking at has warranty, doing outside loan it 2017 freightliner just less than 400 on it , i have 15 yrs to retirement and I don't want to finish it as company piece of shit
I'm a retired trucker. I feel your pain and for everyone else in this tough job as well. The lack of respect for the industry is abominable .Accolades to all of you. I fed your parents and now you are feeding me.
Like the perspective
I'm a owner operator and everything he talked about was right. He is a really honest man big respect 🙌 🙏👍
High Paying Loads DispatchDone.com 305-776-9420
Honest guy running trucking company over 5 years it’s little stress but worth it much better than working for someone , be your own boss !! Thanks
Yes it is
After 15 1/2 years of trucking, I love it more now then when I started. I always tell people, don’t truck for the bucks. Great videos
Thank You
... But society knows as well - and tends to exploit that. So 'I am not working for my truck, but my truck has to work for me' continues to be of an overwhelming importance as my main guiding principle - true or false?
@@JamesBrown-ux9ds EXACTLY! Any moron can say they do something for the love of anything, whether it's being a lawyer, teacher (another THANKLESS profession), cop, fire fighter, nurse, nurse practitioner, paralegal, pipefitter, welder etc. Yeah you have to someone like what you do but ultimately if we want to be nitty-gritty about it, we're all in it for the money making portion. End of conversation
I agree 100%. Im on the route to O/O and I always say, if your in it for the money and not because you love it, you’ll have a bad time.
Thank you..exactly how I feel about my truck.i love working on my truck and I love staying in it and traveling.. espically during the cold season’s. One downfall is Finding a company that accepts older equipment.. I have a 359 that I truly love. And I don’t wanna get rid of it.
rags 1977 Respects for you for being out on the road for that long. I did it for a year and I just couldn’t keep doing it. Im a father and husband so I came local so Im staying local.
Very well put!!
@@youngpatrick29 When people say they're not in it for the money they mean they're more interested in making a reasonable living doing what they love despite being able to earn more doing what they hate.
Of course no one (okay very few people) is in it at an intentional loss just because it's fun to them.
How anybody can possibly like doing something like this???
I’ve only been an Owner Op for 35 years or so, and I don’t know everything, but everything this man says is true. It has very little to do about how much money you can stuff in the mattress,,, it’s about the Chess game you play with brokers, DOT, the IRS, and everyone else every day. I’ve never been good with someone telling me what to do or where to go. It’s not for everyone, but it works for me.
Great video - our company drivers often ask us whether it's worth switching to being an owner-operator; we always say to make sure to have money set aside for maintenance; we see guys going into being owner-ops with minimal maintenance savings, which is always a dangerous game to play.
Great video! Very truthful. As an independent O/O with my own authority since 1994. There’s lots of expenses. My trick to success is being debt free. No truck payment for 20 years. Plus do all my own repairs and maintenance. Mechanical knowledge is a huge advantage in this business. I currently run a 84 Pete 362 Cabover. Very simple to work on. Getting parts are a challenge tho.
Love to hear the truck is still running the roads, 10.4 on the parts, i had that issue with my 86.
Another big issue with older trucks is insurance. Lots of insurance companies want 2010 or newer. I pay more for an older truck. That being said the cool factor and no truck payment is worth it.
That is cool. First truck I ever sat in was a Peterbilt cabover logging truck back in 96. The dream started there when I was 5 and my uncle let me rip that horn and start it up. After years in the oilfield I decided I wanted to go back to that dream and got on with a flatbed company back in western Montana and the plan was to go owner operator after a couple years, but the company treats is well so I'm still a company driver saving up for all the old cabovers I can find in my area. I've collected 2 70s internationals and one freightliner that is definitely 80s, but not sure what year. I always love reading these comments and the older generations years on the road and watching the videos. A tremendous amount of information and just down right cool stories and information that brings back memories. Thank you both!
I’m looking to become an owner operator and watching this video has inspired me more now. I’ve heard so much negative feedback that I became discouraged but I know I’ll regret it if I don’t even attempt trying something that I’m really passionate about. And trucking is something I love! ❤️ Thank you for this video!
Good luck with your adventures
Trucking With Schmidt Thank you!
Semi Hauler I am a o/o .
You really have to love it. I have been in business for many years. It has its ups and downs. For me it’s worth it. I am to independent. I can’t imagine being a company driver. For myself I have owned a few trucks. The best trucks I have had is the kenworth w900l.
Well if you really feel like this is what you want to do go for it. You will never know until you do it. Dreaming about it is all you have is a dream.
Big Bear Sounds great. Glad you didn’t give up due to the downs but I guess it wouldn’t be life if we didn’t have them...lol Anyways I was thinking about starting with a Freightliner or an International because of the lower cost but I’d rather have a Peterbilt or a Kenworth, they just seem to be more expensive. If you know of anywhere that has good a price range please share! 🤗 Stay safe out there!
Jim Boyy That’s great to start out so young and be successful with your business. I wish I had started out a lot sooner but I guess better late than never...lol. Keep up with your hard work, it’s definitely a rewarding feeling knowing that what you’ve put into your business is paying off! Never let anyone discourage you, always do what’s best for you. Safe travels to you!
Most people see a business owner and think about the money coming in... nobody sees the expenses and the fact you are the solely responsible for said business. When bad times comes around you are the one who has to solve the problems. No supervisor or boss to ask for solutions , you got to figure stuff by yourself. Being a business owner is not for everyone. Sounds good to everyone, but is not everyone.
Well said
Old mate
Every body thinks being in business is easy look at all the risks that nobody's puts that in account
Well I got fucking News for them
Best Comment In The Comment Section 🥇
Couldn't agree more with you Kurt. It's all about pride.My 909 is nearly a year old and has 20,000 miles on it, i never drive it if it looks like it's going to rain, purchased new and had it resprayed and PPF wrapped. Truck driving is not my main source of income, farming is but i use my truck to transport from farm to farm. Driving it for me calms me and makes me feel great. Just looking at it parked in the shed is like looking at a great piece of art...that is till the princess shatters my dreams :-)
I Live in England and work for one of the best shipping container transport companies. Over 6 months I kept a log of my wages and fuel / milleage costs etc. It worked out financially that being an owner driver would profit me slightly. The English wages are good and makes owning 1 truck not viable. However owning 3 running shiping containers would be great. But for me, owning or working for a company is not the point, its being on the road. You are right in all that you say brother. Big Love and God Bless from this here UK trucker.. 10-10
Real talk, about the life of an Owner Operator. Particularly being INDEPENDENT. It's like being married. You take the bad with the good. Some days you're feeling it, some days not so much. It's very rewarding though, for those who like to think for themselves. #Independent Truckers. 😎
Being an Owner/Operator is like Farming. You start out on a Wing and Prayer!
I thought i was the only one who talked about a wing and a prayer...lol
Just keep the teases coming......
I put my seat belt together sit on the lap part and swing over the shoulder for looks.
At night not so much.lol....
For me if I were to go owner-operator it would be so I can control the landing of the airplane in the taking off of the airplane I figured the money might be about the same less at first more later on ???
I am debt-free with about 15,000 in the bank I stay at my girlfriend's house for about 400 a month so I could potentially go get a loan for about an $80,000 tractor in about a $20,000 trailer and start the business but then you're always you know under somebody else's thumb and you're always like you say dodging dodging the law don't want anything to do with them people they are money pits..
great show..
I have a co-worker who has his own UA-cam show and he's consistently making about a thousand a month just youtubing so my hat's off to you if you want to do your own podcast knock yourself out right enjoy the money while it's there cool stuff it's like watching TV only with lots of information PS..
I live in Omaha Nebraska so it should be a good fit for Trucking I usually go out as a company driver for about 5 or 6 days sometimes 9 or 12 my favorite number is no more than 12 but my other favorite number is every weekend so every 6 days, we have a pretty good customer base so it's pretty doable..
looking to buy a pickup truck first so I might put off being an owner operator plus I'm getting older and my thyroid is weird might not do it...
See you on the next back hall
@@lindahauseur9924
Talk me out of this owner operator idea..lol
Please
@@richdouglas8969 i cant because im enjoying it....been out here 34 yrs and wouldnt do it any otber way
@@richdouglas8969 i can't....i love it this way
I love how calm and optimistic this guy is
You know it's Most reasonable video I ever saw about being owner operator. Thanks .God bless
I'm a owner op and he is 100 % right you make more and have more expenses
Hey man I plan on being an owner operator in 2 years. What is a average yearly net for being an owner operator versus a hard hustling year?
We had a very long talk before I became an O/O and I had the support of my wife and family - I wouldn't be a trucker any other way. You have the freedom that most company drivers will never see - and there are exceptions but you also have the freedom to go broke. More than that I've always had a strong sense of pride that I was part of making the world go round one load at a time. It's not always about the money.
I too know who you got your truck from - they specialize in the hoods'
You’ve got the best sounding truck of all the truckers I watch on UA-cam.
You are giving us your experience. No one can blame you for it.
Big respect to you sr... God Bless you and your family...! Being an Owner Operator will always be worth it, that's the result when you learn your lesson and get's tired of being push.. and push... around as a company driver. although God hates the sin of pride and will discipline the proud! Let us not see ourselves as wise in our own eyes, but let us become Humble and willing to learn from God and others...
When I started as a owner operator I had $5000 dollar in my savings is being 11 years in proud of my self I do have a old Freightliner 2001 century but let me tell you I trust my shaker lol
Keep the old truck mate
You own it
At least the cunts of banks can't take it of you
That's the most important thing
I think that was the best trk freightliner ever built with Detroit engine missed that.
@@TuffBurnOutTeam could you please keep your foulness to yourself i am sure there are younger viewers as well as women who watch these videos i drive trucks and i certainly dont talk like that thank you
Fuck you
You know nothing about me
2001 that they must have 5,000,000 miles on it and three motors
Bro 😎 I love this video you’ve definitely inspired me man I was a company driver and felt the same way getting pushed around and dispatched all crazy routes so I finally pulled the trigger and brought a Kenworth T660 can’t thank you 🙏 enough brother remain blessed and humble my guy
"Is being an owner operator worth it?" Like any other business.... hell yea!
Your the person people should listen to. No hoopla or double talk.. 😊
"Everybody says quit being a Karen. I don't know who Karen is." Lmao I bet he wasn't happy when he found out about Karen 🤣🤣🤣😂
Yeah and there was no reason to say quit being a Karen God these people that talk like that are disgusting that is your typical BLM activist running their mouth with no actual facts behind their claims
Karen was a middle age woman being constantly harassed by a high school kid... the kid only posted her going off and not what he did to her... her name was karen...further along the kid ended up killing her husband.... it's a very stupid term with a sad back story.
Karen term came from women that over exaggerate situations, try to push the needle to make men react to a lie that they came up with and accuse men of something they didn’t do to get a reaction while recording them on camera. Karens are annoying and always complain about anything. Middle age racist white women that tries to use her race to get her way with the police when dealing with a black person also. Lol
I can relate to everything he says in this video. Well put driver. In my case I got lucky u could say. 3 yrs. ago I bought an older truck from an old timer that was retiring. Original owner. It's a KW 900L. It's got a 550 hp Cat in it w an18 speed. It's a heavy haul version chassis. The only major work that went into the truck, was the power divider... However anything else was basic maintenance. The truck had a very well documented history on it. Previous owner gave me 2 manuscript sized folders with the entire history of the truck since new. I was impressed, to say the least. The engine was redone at 1.35 mil. and right now she's got 1.825.000 on her and she still runs strong. I acquired the truck at 1.520.000 miles. It burns less than a quart of oil between oil changes. Not 2 shabby 4 an old beater... Lol ! Pimped her out a little 2. LEDs, head lights, Chrome etc. It's an O/O thing I know... Lol ! My pride & joy 4 sure 😃 Keep on trucking brother !!!
Sounds great, i like that kind of paper trail.
@@truckingwithschmidt7120 oh yeah I wouldn't have it any other way. Btw u must b in the Midwest states
Wow man, that's awesome! I'm starting to think about bringing my 1st class and I was wondering how many times should I go drive for compagnie before buying my own truck ? I'm a financial advisor right now and it's been 7 years I'm my own boss, working to make things good and live for freedom! I'm tired of this and I dream about a nice and clean W900 or a 389. Pick up my load and going west coast !!
Hey, watched your video about being an owner/operator. Long story short , I stumbled on your channel and love the content!! I am a contractor in VA (started about 3 years ago). I just want to commend you on giving honest pros/cons about owner/operator ship. I feel that the concept of pride, stress, and money making/flexibility can be applied across a broad field, and that a lot of people need to know that it doesn't take a ton of money to make a dream happen. It takes determination, drive and work ethic, which is something that is downplayed in our society today. Love your videos and keep it up!!!
Thank you, its definitely a different business to fire up.
Been driving trucks for 41 years. I am 64 years old now. All but about 6 of those 41 years have been as an owner operator of one type or another. Have been pulling my own flatbed in the 48 while leased to a major carrier for the last 27 years. I like being an o/o because of the freedom involved. Being your own boss, choosing your own loads and running where you want to. Not going where you dont want to go. Deciding for yourself when to take a load to leave home with or stay around the house for another week . Managing your own schedule and not being run by a dispatcher. Deciding for yourself when to go home and how long to stay. Even if it involves deadheading. Deciding for yourself if a particular load is profitable or not. I like being leased to a big company for a lot of reasons. Like discounts on fuel and tires. Not having to purchase liability insurance. Not having to depend on just one customer and not having a customer depending on just you all the time. Quik pay and not chasing money. Not having to do my own billing anymore.
Trucking has been both good and challenging for me at times.
I enjoy watching Schmidt and other youtubers to get a fellow drivers perspectives on things, and to try and learn something I didn't know. I think Schmidt does a good job making his videos. Really like his truck, almost as much as he does.
Thank you. And the not billing part is a good thing.
Hey Jerry just wondering what is a average net for a owner operator versus a hard hustling net?
@@sebastiantapia5868 I really have no idea what the average net income is. I have no way of knowing that
I've thought many times about buying my own truck but after over 20 years of driving these things I'm almost done. Both of my kids are grown and gone, my bills are low enough to get a regular 8-5 so that's what I'm going to do. I'm even getting rid of my CDL..lol I've had them since I was 18 years old and I'm 43 now, time to give it up.
Congratulations, its what we work for.
I'm with you, sometimes the money just isn't enough to put up with all the D O.T. Bullshit. And alot of us actually lose our health out there too...
I love you, as a fellow driver. You tell it the way it is, also truthful about it for yourself. I've told you before, I was O/O struggled a lot but at the end of the day I happy. Keep it rolling that is what we do.
I want to eventually become an owner-operator because of the flexibility it offers. My grandfather owned a fleet and my dad drove for him. Not only did he make good money but also had the ability to take the time off as needed for the family. With that said, this was a while and regulations were different. This was back in the day when most truckers ran two logs and were on paper.
Flexibility is beautiful thing
There's no real flexibility because you will be working more than you are as company to make ends meet
Pay haven't increased in years
I’m so blessed to have the opportunity to get my cdl and get the ball rolling to be a owner operator I have my own truck unfortunately still hunting down for a good affordable trailer witch is hard right now with this kind of market but I’m truly blessed
Driver, I love your spirit. I wish you nothing but great success out there. I believe it’s about what you get out of it, it’s what you put into it at the end of the day as a OO. Lord willing I will make the move as a OO next year. Keep trucking and God bless you and your family. Keep the rubber to the driver10-4
Thank you and good luck.
He is actually trying to help you make smarter decisions . Also I see he is giving you reality not a fairytale.
This is a business, pure and simple, you run it properly, you win. Now, the truck and the maintenance... If you do not know how to wrench, willing to learn the systems if you drive an EPA truck, if you do not, you will loose rather quickly. Fuel mileage... Fuel is your biggest expense, I love a hood, but I would never own another due to fuel mileage. That extra mile or two a gallon can honestly make or break you, especially if you are paying the cash price at the pump. Take control of your business, including learning how to work on the truck and drive responsibly, not 75 mph everywhere you go. If you have to drive like that, you are in the wrong line of work. Lease on to a carrier first, learn how to be profitable, and if you are comfortable and have the money put away to survive a few months, go get the authority. It is not easy, like he says, and it is not getting any easier out here.
That’s why I run 80mph. You think you have all the answers you don’t. Everyone runs different an just cause they run different then you doesn’t mean they will fail. Your way isn’t the only way
And it’s a lot easier to get authority now than it was when I started driving in the 70’s. You only had a few big carriers that had authority and if you wanted your own authority you had to buy operating authority,
That's a beautiful truck. Sounds and shifts great. In 2008 i started on a 10,000dll 1995 fld120 10spd w cat 3806E or something like that. One time I lost all my belts and had to use the leather belt I was wearing to run the power steering and alternator for about 60 miles to next parts counter lol. Good thing I had a 38" waist haha. Keep on truckin.
Thats some good thinking there.
My experience with trucks is when buying something used expect to put a lot of money into it to get it to be reliable , or expect to break down a lot your first year or two . After that expect to change a lot of parts every year after that just so you dont break down while on the road .
What you are referring too is often called proper maintenance 🤙🏽
Thanks for the video and information. I enjoyed it. Nice to hear a oo not giving the tradition spill on becoming an oo as you put in your video. You know you got to have bags of cash to get started and all. I mean I'm sure in a perfect world that's the way to do it but in the real world doesn't quite work out that way for the most part I bet. You confirmed that. It was needed for me anyways to hear it.
I'm not an owner operator yet but I am heading in that direction. Just seems like the natural progression of things for me anyways.
Is there a lot of stress being an owner operator? yes..
Is there a lot of stress being a company driver? yes..
When I start thinking or worrying about the stress I will encounter running my own rig I think about some of the incredibly stressful situations I've been in driving a company truck and then I laugh.. Because I can't imagine anything worse then what I've already gone through successfully. I mean I could as I'm sure you could tell some serious horror story's and yes that was in a company truck.
I heard something from an oo I thought was interesting and true, he said being an oo is about freedom not money but freedom.
Thanks again. You've got a new subscriber.
Beautiful country. That's why I'm a trucker.
Nothing like hearing the truck wind up when going up the on-ramp getting your speed up to start your day. I actually never play my radio in my new 2020 truck. I’d rather listen to the truck. Your tuck sounds great.
Thank you
Same here, hearing the turbos whistle.
Awww brother, put the music in after that turbo spins up. Much rather hear that Cat roar. Great video and keep em coming!
Major point here... The real question is not how much to PUT your name on the door... It is actually what does it take to KEEP your name on the door. If only it was all about money...
Thanks for the info bro’…. Stay safe hope you doing good. I’m a new trucker owner operator here in San Diego, California. My 2016 Peterbilt is like my wife, I have to spend money to keep it at 💯….. I love the freedom and that I don’t have to report to anyone 💪🙌
i think Jimmy Buffet said take a breath, breathe out and walk on....you obviously know what you want to do...you are still in it. I never knew what a "Jake brake" was; or what it was for. But one of your segments i thunk you were driving at night talkin about signs that some towns have that donot allow the use of a Jake brake. And the guy you knew about who always used them because you could hear him driving. So i appreciate that, and its the small things like that which some of us are learning because you are there. Even JBG didnt mention that one. He always at a stop for fuel, has little mention about thing with the truck to check and remember. And he always cleans his windows and mirrors. So it isnt only the delivery as the context, but all those other things you guys mention, because its your life out there. My middle brother said often enough, there arent too many professional** drivers left out there. Most its a job for money for bills, etc. You like trucks, you work on your own truck, i think that means something of worth. I'll shut up🤫 again enjoying your World; and i am learning sooo much, and thanks Mr. Schmidt🖐 Ross
I've been watching your videos for awhile now. Man I've been subscribed for awhile watching a much as i can finally getting to back watching videos I've missed. Man i tell you what, I've been wanting my cdl for years since i had my driver's license 2 days after i turned 16. Everyone always talked me out of it. The reasons, the advice you hand out in this video is my exact mind frame since back then. I've always dreamed of my name on the side of my own truck. Thanks man, you just made me go with my instinct, 18 years later lol. Thank you. Safe travels i know this vids older one 😆
Damn man you sincerely broke everything down for me. I just started driving bout six months ago. And I would love to become an
O/O yes because I would like to make a decent living but most importantly because I would love to be able to spend more time with the family. All I’m looking for is some guidance I don’t have a lot of mechanical knowledge but if I’m taught right I can learn anything. Obviously they are just something you have to pay somebody else to do the job for you but I would love to try and save some $$ on fixing things myself if I can fix them.
Become an owner and your mechanical experience will climb by leaps and bounds lol. Ive had to come up with some creative ways to fix the trucks on the side of the road in the middle of the night several times. Luckily this w9 has been treating me good now. Good luck and thank you for watching.
You can find diesel repair manuals online to learn the basics, and if you have a specific engine in mind search for those also.
I’ll talk money, a year before I bought my trucks I researched every aspect of the industry, mind you this is after 20 years as a line driver, 2 million miles of safe driving and making $129,000 a year 2,690 miles a week, home on the weekends. So after researching for a year , I looked for serious liked minded drivers and then looked for niche companies on my own, no brokers no dispatchers, interviewed some factoring companies.. and then took $250,000 put it into a business account ( added some secret sauce) long story short, 8 trucks 4 teams and 4 line drivers.. My very 1st week my net was $30,000 I’ve yet to make less.. The key? Find drivers that want to make money, Know your worth, your operating costs, know the market and don’t pay for things you can do yourself. Here’s a hint for you find out who’s budgeting what for new distribution centers..
Thats some good research and advice
Yea it does hope for the best . I just got my cdl linces 2 months ago now I’m in Cali trading for 2 months hoping to get my own truck one day and make more money . Wish it be a owner operator one day ..
Thank you!!
Yes I am sure I know where you got your truck from. I will stay away from them.
I was going to ask you about the 40 grand you put in it.
Which believe me I know where it goes. I been a o/o for many years. For me it’s the only way to go. I am not or could not be a company driver.
I prefer to buy old truck from private party who can give me long history of the truck in past I bought 3 trucks all 2014 but I'm tired of def so decide to go with 07 and older found it 5 hours from my home it was drive able but need in frame and that's what I'm looking for because 1 I can negotiate better and 2 I know for sure that in frame is done the dealer you are talking about I see there adds all the time and every truck they have it's got in frame done 3 - 4 hundred thousand miles ago and that gives me red flag anyway hopefully I'll gonna make video about my truck soon and let everyone know about my experience good or bad.Thank You for posting great video.
I got my CDL & LLC also a DOT number
Man the rest is hard to start with !!
Insurance, buying a truck omg and more
My daughter's name is on the truck. And I drive it. So proud off that. 👍😁
Where it starts,, The first thing drivers start to do after they have been driving for a while , get my own truck and do it myself. There is a lot more into then what meets the eye. What it takes , Record keeping , a good book keeper. Good load contacts, good shop and maintenance , GOOD load contacts, reliable brokers . Managing your money, so that you have a escrow. And Safe Driving. All of these things will play a big role in being successful ; Public relations is absolutly important. You have to learn to NOT judge others , everyone is different. When you do something you have to do it to the limit of your expertise. It takes all of this and then some that can't be put in words.
I have been trucking for 5 years. Thanks for being so honest.
It sucks bad enough driving a normal vehicle through Evansville, Indiana lol
Man thats a beautiful truck love how you keep her so clean. Loads of pride, haha get it. I'm about to purchase a truck myself. Best of luck trucking.
GOD BLESS YOU!!! Love The way You Think!!!
Thank you.
A no nonsense guy, rare these days.Best to Ya!!
looked up this vid because I am researching because I am in the process of helping my father get a business license to possibly getting a truck. Great tips and info so far. Do it for the pride of having your own business and making your own scheduled etc. will be noted.
I started out by taking over my dad's 2 worn out trucks. He was facing bankruptcy and the banker was cool enough to let a 18 year old kid take the reigns.. my dad.. ALOT less so!! (We hadn't spoken in 3 years and didn't speak until I was 30 and had to take care of him..). I fixed those two trucks out of a junkyard, a lot of learning and alot of work!! I built into a 40 truck company with 4 terminals and a operation in Canada.. not bad..huh
I like the video in the caves I used to go in there back in the day with a cabover and it was a challenge
My aunt was my support and my office matron for many years.. she never doubted me, just kept us afloat somehow. She thought some of my ideas were harebrained, but just rolled her eyes and kept us afloat..
I had a foster sister named Karen, she went to Moravian College in Bethlehem, Pa. She ran off with an older dude and never saw her again.
'But as a matter of fact you still keep on pain your taxes for all the 'Karens of the world'? One sees them or not?'
I got a CDL just recently and I’m already thinking of being an O/O . I’m thinking of owning my own dump truck and just being a for-hire dump truck driver and hauling gravel for whoever needs it and even up through the woods. Yes I’m thinking staying on the local side of trucking.
Good luck in your travels
any updates?
we have a lot in common old mate,I have been listening to you upshifting you let the engine torque do the work no need to flog the bag out of the excelerator
The edit at the beginning of you walking around the truck is great
I understand
The same desire you got to put your name on the door is the same “ desire “ I have to not want to, those two different desires come the same place
Ps. 37:4
You know what I love about this video it has plenty of ways for you to succeed hopefully I see you on the road bud I’ll give you a holla
I'm an old school retired guy Bud, But my hat's off to you. Bottom line you did what you had to do, in other words you thought outside the box. If I ever decided to go back to work it would be an old truck with a mechanical engine so I can still repair it. Good Luck and God Bless Bud, keep the greasy side down.
Thank you
I live in Ohio and my dad was a truck driver and there is a lot of places here that will sell u junk to make a living with so be glad yours was able to be fixed lol
I’d like to be an owner operator for the Freedom. Forget money, yeah I know it’s great money, but there’s a sense of pride knowing that I don’t have to ask no boss for vacation time nor do I have to be getting calls asking when will I get back to the truck. I’d just like to work for myself. What do you guys think.
You'll probably find that it's not that easy or glamorous.
Sure, you can decide when to work. But working isn't generating revenue like paid time off at a company.
And when your truck goes down, that's unexpected involuntary vacation time. Plus a fat bill at the end.
@@dchawk81 I’m on month 2 bro, you’re definitely right , but I’ve been enjoying it so far. I was in the hole for like 2 weeks just got out. Survived off some damn sandwiches lol. But I’m lucky bro, I have no kids or any HUGE bills, that’s why I’m ok right now. Definitely an eye opener
@@robertvilain1920 Same. I'm not super experienced with it either. It's already tough. I'm only leased on though not full authority.
@@dchawk81 same here , wishing you success
@@robertvilain1920 Thanks same to you. Fortunately there's always a company gig again but after getting a taste it's hard to go back.
Really enjoyed this...it’s real stuff that you share. Trucking has ups and downs, ways on your family as well as you. Life out on the road isn’t always just getting behind the wheel and moving down the highway. You encounter many things, people, environments, attitudes etc. Sometimes YOU are the only one that you can rely on. It can get really stressful! Sorry to hear that the truck dealer was dishonest. Hope it wasn’t in Columbus, Ohio. You made a good truck out of her, that’s the important thing, and you know what she will need and do. It helps if you can work on your truck at least a little. You can save a lot of money that way! You hinted about paying the home/truck...holding money back for any future truck repairs. Take say 20% out from each pay just for the truck. Do you operate under your own authority or lease? I know some truckers that stay out until they can make money for the return home...they don’t take just any load...don’t take a loss. Do you have another way to get your truck home if you really needed to? You have the Freightliner...do you have a 5th wheel boom or a buddy that could help you? These are some things that you didn’t mention. Hey, if you’re ever in Columbus, Ohio, know that you have a friend here. I live just east of there. The cable was a diagnostic cable for connecting a scanner/computer. Stay safe!
I have my own authority. And no I don't have a 5th wheel hoist, thank you for tge comment.
When should a new truck become an owner operator in your opinion? Or what should i have to know that I'm ready for this step?! What the average truck price would you advise me to pay for my first truck?! PS I just got my CDL few days ago.... and if we can talk I'll be grateful, because I wanna be wise in taking decisions but at the same time I wanna put solid infrastructure to my future ASAP.... I don't have family or any commitments so what's you advice to me?
Ouch, better start out with a GOOD USED ONE AND SEE IF YOU CAN MAKE IT, A new truck is nice but the odds are you making it are unreal
I was kind of forced into it, i used to use owner operators but got stuffed around by booking agents to often. So i went out and bought my own trucks, that way if i want something moved it's moved, there are some owner drivers i know and still call up knowing they won't stuff me about.
Personal experience about seatbelts I to have a problem with seatbelts I cracked my cartilage that holds your ribs together for three weeks I couldn’t take the tugging on my chest. I went to do a stop in New York City and got pulled over. I ended up getting a 500.00 dollar fine with all the little surcharges add to the fine. What the one officer told me is loosen the one that goes across your chest and we can’t give you a fine. If the officer gives you the fine fight it he or she will tell you it’s for not wearing it properly. The law says you have to wear, so for the rest of the time I wore it that way
The economical differences of owning a truck vs driving someone else's truck is simular to the economical differences between renting and owning an atomobile and or renting and owning a home.
I'm looking to buying my first truck. I was hoping to see info like, what percentage goes into fuel, tires, general maintenance etc... but I guess all the depends on the person
Great Video!!
I miss them trucks!! I fell while climbing out of a truck one day and fell. Landed on a curb, exploded my t12 vertebra, now am a paraplegic. I still got my CDL but would need hand controls to pass the DOT physical. I would love to buy a truck, especially with the grants and programs available to get disabled folks back to work. So many unknowns to be out there without good legs. A dedicated drop n hook run would be perfect.
Think its doable?
Yup I do. Anything is possible I think.
Awesome video and inspiring, I’m going thru the process right now and a wing and a prayer is about par for the course
Co. vs Owner Op comparison is like National Guard vs Reg Army... “Go hard, or Go Home!!!
With that said, you have you have to be smart about it! Know your strengths/ weaknesses. This dude is mechanical inclined; are you!? This dude has tremendous support (emotionally & Logistically); do you!?....
If you don’t, you might have to sign up for the “Reserves,” route! i.e. pimp (Lease) yourself out first, under a carrier, until you build your revenue.
I love how everyone in the comments knew the dealership without you naming the dealership. That's how freaking bad they are.
You can still see their humble origins in satellite view. A bunch of crusty KWs scattered around somewhat randomly, waiting for their coverups.
Owner operator is the way to go I’d rather get a regular job than drive someone’s truck.
All the truck driver here lol .
I am in my first year truck driver I save money . So my next step I wanna to be owner operator . In Shalla Amin
Loved this vid you said everything I wanted to hear and I agreed before and after. Hopeing to have my own rig one day.
Guys at my company make $120k a year dry box and do their 34 at home on the weekends. Wondering if I should just stay here or get my own truck.
If you are happy where you are stay put. Dont switch because of money.
Can you pls share what co you work at?
@@realist9311 mister p express
Thx much appreciated, I’m just getting into trucking (switched careers) so it’ll be a while before I approach that annually but still good to know that much is attainable as a co driver
The fact that you have a w900 and you got it in Ohio makes me think I know the dealer. Thanks for the heads up
‼️He’s talking about OHIO TRUCK SALES BEWARE‼️
Why?
The owner and manager were indicted a few days ago for instructing employees to take hazardous waste off site and dump it
Are you serious?!?!?! Wow.
Hey driver I’m new to the channel. I like your W900 it’s nasty
Thank you
We'll said bro I like this must people's power Will win soon soon
I feel like as far as money goes yeah you’re not probably going to get rich but when you’re an owner operator the more time you’re willing to put on the road the more money you’re going to make so if you let’s say our in later years of your life and you’ve been trying you might not take that extra load or if you want to get home take a trailer that Hass to be dropped somewhere on the way just to get home if that makes sense so really owner operator it’s all about the motivation of the place you are in your life And the miles you’re willing to sacrifice in the name of being home with your family that’s just my opinion Obviously the pride is real when you pull up in a beast like this that is a beautiful truck with your name on it but at the same time you have to remember it’s not just driving and unhooking the trailer there’s tons of paperwork tons of login when you stop when you take a break when you go down and when it breaks you have to pay for the repairs you have to pick up the work you are the driver secretary mechanic CEO and everything else that goes along with it and I love the way you have your truck set up by the way I always say and it is such a pet peeve of mine a double bunk truck that is set up with both beds I love your seat on the bottom and the bed on top
in this case today, yes its worth it if you stay out of California. the advantage of being owner operator which I see, you can fuel at what ever loves station you want and when you want to instead of following the fuel optimiser, and you truck has two fuel tanks instead of one. I'm thinking about buying my own truck if they keep playing games on me on fueling the company truck, especially when the company truck only has one fuel tank instead of two today. you better of being an owner operator untill the company gets a fleet of electric trucks.
How about living in arizona?
Appreciate your video man
If you like looking at corn Iowa is the state for you The first time that I was in Iowa my uncle and I were visiting family in Waterloo Never have I seen so much corn 🌽 on either side of the road
That drive from i35 and 30 to waterloo is just so much corn and smells funny like cows lol depending which way the wind is blowing
Thank you
I see fewer and fewer of these traditional american truckers and theyre usually the ones eager to help a fellow trucker. My mom wants her own truck, but we'll see.
Wouldn't be worth doing if it was easy that's what my 39 years of experience told me
@@lydiaanderson9765 hi there Lydia .Just taking it easy here in Alabama going through U Tube and just caught your text ,THANKS for the reply back 😉😊😊😊😁🤗
@@lydiaanderson9765 should work out good ,IM a very patient person and being retired i have time on my side LOL 🙄😁
@@lydiaanderson9765 im working on that
@@jamesmorrison5632 Okay I'm waiting
@@lydiaanderson9765 im still working on it
I can't begin to understand why anyone would want to be an owner operator, or why having your name on the door is important at all, or how you can drive without shoes on.
What's my chances of making it if I buy a 50 or 60k dollar truck paying cash?? Paid in full no payments. Single and no family. I'm afraid it would still run me broke even though I could pretty much live in it. I can take off and have nothing to tie me down. But I'm afraid even though I have no house or bills that I would still struggle. I just want to be free. I don't want to be rich and i don't want to be broke.
I have over 22yrs of driving experience im looking at purchasing a truck , i own a truck about 19yrs ago as a local driver , i want to do my own thing im sick of getting kick around but scared to do it but doing a lot of research, I can't effort to lose well im sure done of us can , I think i found good company/ broker all owner operators no company drivers my truck that im looking at has warranty, doing outside loan it 2017 freightliner just less than 400 on it , i have 15 yrs to retirement and I don't want to finish it as company piece of shit
Hood luck in your adventure.