When I leased to a percentage carrier my deadhead was slightly less than 10%. Rounded up it was 10%. I averaged $1.66 with one truck and $1.81 on the other for ALL miles, including deadhead. I am sure not everyone did as well. Some probably did better. In any case, it was much better than leasing to a carrier who paid $0.80-0.90/mile, even for all miles. I paid my own base plates and permits, fuel taxes, etc., and still did very well when I leased to a carrier on percentage. I am doing much better running my own authority. Most mileage carriers are forced dispatch. The majority of percentage carriers are not forced dispatch. That means that you decide where you want to run and at what rate. Running for a percentage carrier is closer to actually running your authority. The main differences are keeping track of your fuel taxes and other filings and insurance. I can tell you from personal experience that even with the higher cost of insurance I still make more money than if I leased to a carrier. I understand that is not always the case. Some people are better managers and more efficient at running a business than others. I believe we all need to find our own comfort level. The idea is to earn the best living you can. Some can make more with their own authority, other will do better leasing to a carrier. I don't think all carriers are bad. There are good and bad ones. It is often a matter of finding one that is a good fit for you. Running your authority isn't that difficult, but it can be time consuming, dealing with all the government regulations, finding loads and all the other business aspects There are some people who would rather drive and let someone else deal with the paperwork. Others don't mind dealing with all the little details.
My advice to anyone who is thinking about becoming an owner operator or getting their authority is do a lot of research and be honest with yourself about what you want to do and with what you are comfortable. Before making a decision, get all the information you can in order to make a good decision. What works for me may not be what you need or truly want. Experience is the best teacher. If you want to become an owner operator or get your own authority, drive for a company first. You should see whether you enjoy this business before you start spending money. In this business, it isn't the big things which will kill you. It is the little things. You must take care of the details.
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