What some owner operators don't realize is that most of the major carriers rely on brokers and 3rd party logistics companies for their freight. That means that in some cases you will earn less when you lease to one of these carriers than if you ran your own authority. If these carriers mostly have their own freight then you could make as much or more than if you ran your authority unless you have some of your own freight. It is difficult to make a blanket statement about how much money you could make one way or another.
An advantage to some when they lease to a carrier is that the carrier will often have a dispatcher or at least an agent network that can help keep your truck moving. They will also take care of all your paperwork, IFTA and other paperwork. I am not going to say which is better. Running my own authority works better for me. I like the flexibility and freedom that it offers. I can also usually make more money than if I lease to another carrier. I don't mind looking for loads and doing the negotiating to get the best rate. Others don't seem to enjoy this aspect of the business.
You just need to find which is most comfortable for you. I have known of several who have gotten their authority and failed. I also know of some who have done well running their authority. I even know a couple of guys who gave up their authority to lease back with another carrier. One in particular is very happy with his decision.
You don't have to run your authority to be successful in this business. In fact, there are many owner operators who do very well. You also don't need to feel ashamed if you prefer to go back to leasing to a carrier after running your authority. I have had a couple of drivers to apply recently, who had their own authority. In their case, they only wanted a company driving job. They no longer want to run their authority.
Just as I like the freedom of running my own authority, there are those who feel right the opposite. They feel that running their authority is very confining. Some feel that leasing to a carrier offers them greater freedom. It is a matter of understanding your limitations and personality.
|