A few questions on how trucking works.
 

Me and my buddy want to get our cdl's and drive "part time". We are wanting to do LONG runs (like from new york to LA or even out to alaska/canada) We don't want to work for a company but more along the lines of when we are ready for a run we can call and find something. I know it wont be like "hey i want a job" and get it that day, but something like when we are ready to go we give them notice or something like that. I know that's confusing but hopefully you understand :)


Does anyone else do this? Ever heard of something like this?

If we were wanting to be hired by a company do they ever hire for long runs with 1-2 weeks off every time we are back home?

Sorry gentlemen, but even with my little experience I have to say that those are big wishes. The only two things that I have heard of that would make that work is Roehl's 7 on/ 7off deal but then you would have to go on their schedule. The only way you could do that I believe (help me more experienced drivers) is if you owned your own rig and trailer, had your own authority and went through a broker. After all the cost associated with owning a truck you would be paying maney to take a week or so on the road a month and wouldn't make a dime. Don't even drive a truck if that's how you want to do it.

You can do what you want but will have a problem starting out driving coast to coast. The reason is insurance. Most insurance companies will restrict you to about a 300 mile radius of your home base until you get some solid driving experience. I believe some on this board have had their restriction lifted after 1 year with no claims. Until you get at least 2 years of driving experience, insurance will be expensive. Actually, it is never cheap. I have a very good rate and still pay almost $4,000 per truck. Without experience you are likely to pay over $10,000/year. Rates vary according to where you live, where you plan on running, driving history, experience and your credit rating. Running a truck is expensive. It sounds to me as though you just want to see the country. If that is the case, you would spend less money by hopping in your car and stop at motels or get an RV. The profit margins are very slim in this business due to the high cost associated with running a truck. If you decide to pursue this, I recommend you check around for insurance rates. Progressive is one of the few insurance companies who will insure inexperienced drivers. You will also need a truck and trailer. In addition you should have a decent amount in reserves to take care of any major breakdowns.

Are there any part time driving jobs?

That's what they call a "hobby trucker"...

I am sure that you can find local part time jobs. But they will be part time pay as well. As for OTR. There are some owner/ops who call the shots regarding whether to accept dispatches but to do it part time? I think that would be bankruptcy! Unless you haul something real special and to do that you will usually need experience.

No.