Owner-operators

The information below provides an overview of how working as an owner-operator (also referred to as an independent contractor) can meet your expected lifestyle, work within your long-term career plans, and provide the work environment. you are looking for.

What is an owner-operator?

At its most basic level, an owner-operator (OO) is exactly the best: a driver who owns the truck they operate as an independent business. For many truck drivers, becoming OO means you’ve reached the top of the truck driving industry. You own or have financed the costs of your own truck on your behalf. You decide who to contract with, when to contract, where to drive, and what cargo you are willing to transport.

An OO is a “free and clear” small business owner. Likewise, those looking for freight forwarding often prefer to deal with OOs and will pay more when the opportunity arises. Having an OO, by definition, means that the owner and driver of the truck are one, removes the financial burden from a transporter or business that hires, trains and maintains additional drivers when demanded. drops to normal or below normal levels.

What personal characteristics best serve owner-operators?

In addition to the personal characteristics necessary to be a successful truck driver, an OO must have the knowledge and ability to operate within the industry and maintain mutually beneficial relationships with customers. These customer relationships must be developed at a higher level than any other type of driver. As an OO you have reached the pinnacle of truck driving. There are no shortcuts, and with experience you should know how to react in virtually any situation, from personal interactions to truck repairs to working with your accountant if you are undergoing an audit. .

For more information on driver-owners, including what a driver-owner is, ways to get a job as a driver, financial investment requirements, personal characteristics, average salaries and job structures. compensation of driver-owners, visit Truck Driving Job Resources.

Different types of materials require different types of trailers, and each type of trailer presents drivers with their own challenges. Therefore, it is important to understand what is needed not only for driving your truck and freight, but also for the trailer you are towing.

What is Dry Van transport?

Dry vans are probably the most basic type of trailer in the industry and the type that novice drivers are likely to haul when they get their first job. A dry van is normally a 53-foot box-shaped trailer loaded with non-perishable goods (think of the historical term “dry goods store” and the type of products they sold).

What are the requirements for transporting dry van equipment?

Generally, dry vans can be transported by anyone with the appropriate CDL classification.

Which particulars are necessary for the transport of dry vans?

If the cargo is considered hazardous or contains hazardous materials, a statement (H), Hazardous materials or (X), Hazardous materials / tank is required.

For more information on Dry Van Hauling, including the type of companies hiring, job requirements, compensation structures, endorsements needed, visit Truck Driving Job Resources.

Different types of materials require different types of trailers, and each type of trailer presents drivers with their own challenges. Therefore, it is important to understand what is needed not only for driving your truck and freight, but also for the trailer you are towing.

What is “reefer” or “refrigerated” transport?

Refrigerated trailers are the ones that most often transport food products that must be kept at a low temperature to avoid perishing. Reefer drivers may operate in an area, or they may travel roads across the country in the line of duty. Driving a refrigerated, as opposed to a dry van, requires additional skills and responsibilities. Monitoring temperatures inside the trailer is a vital task for refrigerator operators, as if they vary a specific range determined by the product being transported. Drivers must be able to identify equipment problems and make minor repairs, as well as call and wait for help with repairs. A refrigerated driver may make multiple stops along a route to unload products at grocery stores, convenience stores, and other retail outlets.

What characteristics does a refrigeration engineer / refrigeration driver need?

In addition to the personality traits required for most driving positions, refrigerator operators must realize and accept the level of responsibility involved in transporting refrigerated products. Depending on the product, a refrigerated container can transport products worth a total of hundreds of thousands of dollars to retailers who depend on a constant supply of refrigerated items to meet consumer demand. Delays in shipments hurt carriers as well as retailers.

Often, refrigeration drivers will be responsible for unloading a number of boxes or goods at various locations. A level of strength and endurance is required, as is a conscious effort to protect the product from breaking, crushing, or other damage.

What endorsements are needed to transport refrigerated goods?

Refrigerator truck drivers can usually do their job with an appropriate CDL for the truck being driven. No specific mention is normally required, unless the trailers use atypical refrigeration systems involving hazardous materials.

For more information on reefer / refrigerated transport including type of companies hired, job requirements, compensation structures, endorsements needed, visit Truck Driving Job Resources.

The type of truck driving route varies within the industry and depends on several factors including interstate trucking requirements, route planning, type of cargo carried, frequency, restrictions on hazardous materials, driver’s experience, etc.

Road routes (OTR) are probably the ones that most people with minimal knowledge of the trucking industry consider working for drivers. OTR routes can be regional with occasional assignments outside the region or they can be transnational to make one or more deliveries en route. OTR drivers are generally paid by the kilometer and are on the road much of the year with limited residence time.