Looking for driver feed back.

[amsmithiv]

Hello, looking to get a little info from drivers who do this on a daily basis. I have been a local driver for 10 years now and I'm looking to go out on my own over the road. But before I do....... I am looking to get all the information that I can so I don't step out blind to the situation. I have gathered all the information I need as far as tractor/trailer and insurance, but the real information I am looking for is regarding LOADS.

1. What is the best way of getting loads, when I'm first getting started?

2. Are adding a fuel surcharge rate to the load a good standard practice?

[GMAN]

Unless you have some contacts you can either find some shippers or subscribe to some of the loadboards. It would probably be easier for you to check the loadboards.

[unklefunky]

First join OOIDA, they have two of the best loadboards I've worked with. I'm a member not a spokesman...lol I've done well by utilizing the programs and offers they have, also subscribe to Landline the trucker magazine, lots of great and useful info there. Landlinemag.com
Good look driver[/B]
The Roadrunner-Ten4

[cheswood]

First join OOIDA, they have two of the best loadboards I've worked with. I'm a member not a spokesman...lol I've done well by utilizing the programs and offers they have, also subscribe to Landline the trucker magazine, lots of great and useful info there. Landlinemag.com
Good look driver[/B]
The Roadrunner-Ten4

Perfect advice!

Don't forget that with your own authority and insurance (careful you get what you need, but ooida is good here as well, even if you go with policies from elsewhere).... there are companies you can sign on with and not have to be exclusive with them. Several have used this method to get started and work into creating their own sources.
Also be prepared to check credit ratings on brokers to avoid no-pays.

Best of luck to you, and for certain, give ooida a call.

[GMAN]

2. Are adding a fuel surcharge rate to the load a good standard practice?

Most shippers and brokers are accustomed to using a fuel surcharge to offset the rapid spikes in fuel costs. Getting a fsc is more important to someone who leases to a carrier or when you have a long term contract than an operation that doesn't have too many trucks. When you run your own authority the fsc is not as important. You still make the same amount of money no matter how you break the rate out. When I am quoting a rate I usually just quote it and include the fsc unless the broker or shipper wants it separated. You still make the same amount of money and the shipper or broker still pays the same money. It just makes some people feel that they are making more money than they really are.

[sidman82]

Hey amsmith, I drove local for 20 years. I went out on my own for 4 years. I did use loads boards alot. I got to know certain brokers very well. They would call me before posting to the boards. You could get more money then joe blow because of being a reliable carrier.
After a while you get to know what areas are paying what and when the season demands change. I am back driving local because of my family. My kids are young. I miss it and will go back out when they get older. If you don't have anything tieing you down it is great.
You will make contacts as you go along also. Good luck.

Hello to everybody, I have not been on in a long time. Hope everyone has a great year.