Quote:
Originally Posted by GMAN
There are several carriers where you can lease on your truck and work for percentage rather than low mileage pay. I don't see how any of these people can survive running at $0.95/mile.
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Well, I have been doing it. My net last year was just under $70K. Granted, not $.95 a mile, but between $.96 and $1.12 based on length of haul. When most things are paid for or reimbursed by the carrier, they have substantial discounts on fuel, a solid customer base so there is no sitting except for breaks, and a decent fuel surcharge, it is possible. My only expense to the carrier is $10 a week for the qualcomm. My base plate cost is reimbursed 100%. And I am home every weekend and holidays, and often by the house once or twice a week. And no, it is not dedicated freight. Just general dry box freight with a solid base of really good customers.
And, except for a mortgage, I am debt free. Have a Blue Cross health plan that is NOT thru the carrier with a $5 million lifetime coverage. So it can be done. Not easy for most, but it is doable. You do have to run things like a business and not just a job or a hobby. And being able to turn a wrench once in a while can help.
It will take a lot of effort and diligence to reach a comfortable point, but hard work and focus can reap rewards. And I will admit, it doesn't hurt to have a little luck.