When a load gets pushed back, you probably bought the fuel for that load, yes in the end it works out. But you put that fuel money out. I've told some drivers that think its all roses... when everything is good, sure its pretty good. But when does everything in trucking go perfect....(ill pause for your laughter) When you're off for repairs, weather, or whatever, those payments aren't paused. Truck payment, trailer payment, insurance, vacation (yah, what's that)... your revenue stops. Keep up with truths!!!
What till you do a load for landstar and months later they take money back for the load you already did watch your invoices they do sneaky stuff. Use to work for them in the 90's then I went independent since.
Just started o/o sept of 2021, my truck engine just blew. I was 25k down a hole, yeah I was making money but u really need to put away for maintenance and everything else. I’ve been down 1 month and bills piling up.
@@axist1235 if you didn't set aside money for maintenance, that's your own stupidity. At a minimum you should be setting aside 20 cents per mile when you first start off and you never stop saving it up even if you get to 30k in a savings account. Maybe once you get to 30k in an account you can drop down to 10 cents per mile but that can be dangerous.
Most truckers I k is make lots of money, but lack financial education hence their bottom line suffers. When I see truckers buying a 60k truck 4 years old having to pay 1800 a month in truck payments, and then another 1200 a month in repairs and maintenance. Just buy a new one for 2800$ a month with no repairs costs. Abs you’ll get 8 mpg instead of 6.0-6.5 The difference pays for itself after a couple of loads
@@dinocosta4421 older trucks are more dependable the 379s with 3406b sure you get less mileage but its not in the shop for warranty work with the crappy emissions system you could be down for a few days waiting for warranty work and waiting for parts a rebuilt 379 will be on the road not in the shop and if you need a repair its usually minor and can be fixed the same day a rebuilt 379 3406e will give you 20 years of service at much less than half the cost of a new poor quality truck so burning more fuel with your 379 is still much cheaper than a new truck plus you will be on the road in style and not in the shop
I retired after 36 years as an o/o. The last 10.25 years with landstar. My advice would be to run a business like a business , watch how you spend money, keep your deadhead as low as possible , if you see something needing repairs do it immediately and don't do it piece meal. I sold my 379 Pete with 1.5 million miles on it and it's still on the road. I did an mainframe at 1.150 million miles but I never skimped on any repairs Good luck to all of you and be safe.
@@Toz-Y piecemeal is when you replace parts or do maintenance or replace parts as things come up rather than proactively on a schedule. very expensive to have to do big repairs far away from home on a short timeframe. Deadhead is running empty and not getting paid for it
A old school trucker told me that I want to have 26k in my business account per tractor that I own. Just so I DON'T end up like this. As far as being an O/O there is a cost to be the boss.
I personally like to always have 100k minimum in my business account for rainy days. Did I get to this point overnight no. I worked with my old man my whole trucking career until he passed earlier this year. There where times where if it wasn’t for him I would have gone belly up. I thank god for my old man.
Man I been doing o/o local for 3 years now and my goal was always 20k at least to feel safe. I got up to around 15-18k in the first 3-4 months and then haven’t been able to get past 15 to save my life and that’s with only paying myself $400 a week most of the time. Hoping it’ll get better for us all. I’d be thrilled if I could keep 25k in the nest egg
As an o/o the truck does not break every week. I've run 2500 miles every week for a month straight without doing anything on the truck. The most important thing is repairing at your home town which is cheaper then on the road.
Most truthful in trucking I ever heard in 30 years. Remember the time you don’t sleep while loading/unloading, looking for new loads, driving, and paperwork!!! Wife and I are on salary, company team driving! 5 weeks paid vacation per year! We stay out 3 months at a time! We don’t rent Or own a residence. No electric bill ect.... we visit family and stay in nice hotels when on vacation. Bring home 3,000 per week combined. Average 25,000 miles per month! We love our job! We don’t have any headache if break downs occur, no slip seating and still collect our salary every week! Owner operator makes more but my stress level is way less!! Thx for a great video 👍👍👍🤠. You haven’t worked a day when you love what you do 🤣😂✊🤠
I have had a ton of setbacks since ‘03. Expensive ones too! I never count what I could have made, however, when I know it’s gonna be a few days or more to get going, I jump in someone else’s truck and work. Then what you make you keep. Network with the masses, there’s a seat somewhere to fill for a few days. Head up and roll on!!
Man I really appreciate this video and the comments. Lately I’ve been so frustrated because anything I make goes towards some issue that has come up with the truck. The time we spend in our trucks and when payday finally comes I’m paying for some repair or maintenance cost can get frustrating. Thanks for all your stories. It helps to see that I’m not the only one who goes through this shit.
Love yours. And several others drivers...but curious...Been attempting to do a 2-3 week apprenticeship..... precisely to avoid situations of this magnitude . No offers yet.... Six months later...any ideas?! Why?
That’s is so true! That happened to me and my wife while she was riding with me around this time last year and we didn’t get a paycheck for over a month and we survived it, plus we were dealing with that we just came from a two week vacation (well deserved) on a cruise MSC Seaside which almost got stuck on the boat because the same day that we got back to the Miami port they closed all the ports. But it is the reality of being an Owner Operator it comes with a huge sacrifice behind it. So that put us in the hole for over $13,000 dollars but we ran hard two months on the road and recuperate from it thanks to our God. Great subject to talk about because everyone thinks that us O/O we make tons of money when in reality after expenses it’s not that much, but I’m happy because I love what I do. Keep on trucking and Stay safe!! 🚛💨🇵🇷🙏
As a company driver you are just one slice of a pie to a business’ expenses. Once you buy a truck and go O/O you inherit the whole pie of a carrier basically. And those other expenses in that pie get a lot larger because you don’t have hourly employees at $30 a hour to maintain your equipment, you’re paying $80-100+ shop rates. You aren’t getting 25% discounts on tires because you don’t order 100 a month. You aren’t getting group insurance discount rates because you’re just one truck. You aren’t getting whole sale prices on trucks with little to no interest in financing because you order 100 units at a time. So if you think becoming an O/O is a huge pay raise while not taking on the responsibility of maintaining your own equipment, doing your own accounting and taxes, etc. you are starving your income and setting yourself up for failure when those other duties still need to be paid for. Those other slices of the pie get larger not smaller. It’s not rocket science. It’s just common sense in business operations. This is why ALL businesses have such a high failure rate, and this is why the ones that dude succeed the owners worked hard and didn’t care about that new house or new RV when they seen all that extra money coming in. I started out as a lease purchase with the mega carrier I got my CDL with. I paid $650 a WEEK for my truck. I still paid myself the same rate I got as a company driver. I took the same amount of hometime I did as a company driver. I did my own accounting, my own PMs, and I was keeping more money from my settlements in my business checking than I was paying myself. I got me a used truck for $800 a month and that saved me an additional $1,800 a month from my company lease. I still paid myself the same rate until that truck was paid for. I’ve never once struggled out here. Never once worried about breakdowns and not being able to afford them. And I’m a lease on with a mega carrier making $1.27 a mile plus fuel surcharge. So for the guys out here making $2+ a mile and talking about how much of a struggle it is, for me personally it’s a reflection of their own choices and it’s not the industry’s fault. You got guys out here seeing all of this money they can make and they go out and buy fancy trucks and materialistic things instead of paying off their fines for being a drug trafficker, it’s only going to be karma waiting on the other end of that stick when things slow up.
I had to screenshot this man. Surprised your comment didn’t get more likes. Here’s my question for you and I’m aware you’re an O/O but you still know the business. I’m 23, no kids, no big bills. Just looking for the best route to take at my age. I start with prime next month I plan on driving with them a year to finish my contract, gain experience and learn the business, get my cdl and save all my money for that year. I just don’t know what route to go after that. The more O/O videos I watch, the more I realize I don’t want to do it. Nothing wrong with being an O/O I just don’t think it fits my personality. I want to end up staying local making 100k + a year driving for company with all my benefits. Any words of wisdom you can give to me given everything i just told u ? Also, What should I be hauling to make the most money? Any advice is appreciated
It's a business. Some guys make a good living with a hotdog stand and some guys go broke with an oil well. As for me, I wish I had done this o/o thing 30 years ago. Started during the tough times (2008). Made thru that and I'll never work for anyone else again. I'm the best boss I ever had. Best money I ever made.
@@cm2274you already know what his red neck racist jealous ass meant ….let them tell on themselves(they always do in sone way)knew he was full of shit when I read that comment.
This is such valuable information! And no one talks about it. My husband and I have been learning this since he quit driving for large companies and went out on his own a year ago. We love the wide variety of information on your channel! Your flatbed securement videos are great, too.
True, but he's talking to people who are pondering whether to begin or not! They need to hear the truth, that you better have some $$$$$ in the bank before you start!👍
So true. I love it too. And I took care of the major thing that was draining my Money. Let's just say I no longer go to California 😉. Now I'm banking 😁
I understand that losing a week sucks it happens to all of us but you are not losing $6000 a week in your costs you are losing your fixed cost which means your truck payment then your insurance depending on the price of your truck if it’s new or not or if it’s paid off your variable costs which account for more like your gas fuel or a zero because you aren’t running so that’s a little misleading . What you are mentioning maybe is opportunity cost is well with Colin economic‘s which means all the costs put together including the cost of the load that you would’ve had although opportunity cost exists it is a fallacy because everything in life has an opportunity cost so that’s life .
To survive as an O/O, you drive 52 weeks a year and take a “vacation” when your truck is in the shop. Take a “day off” when your load isn’t ready till tomorrow. You work your ass off.
@@1littlefish if you’re a new guy with a big truck payment, you didn’t do your homework. Get rid of the big new truck and buy a truck that you can afford. Look up Dave Ramsey and Kevin Rutherford . I’m not perfect, but I’ve been doing this for 25 years, always try to learn.
Buy a truck you can afford is the real deal....I bought a 2015 international prostar with a Cummins....21k last February...get your own authority and make sure you are working on the truck more than a shop...all about business minded and do all small stuff yourself...oil changes, grease fittings, suspension..etc
Good information. For me i drive local for a company. About a grand a week for 40 hrs. Home every day, 8 to 4. Company truck. They take care of everything no headaches. Appreciate the dedication owner operators have. My 39th year driving.Have a great day
Any honest o/o or prior o/o will tell you this video in spot on. Thanks for keeping it honest Brian. I been there, done it. I don’t miss nothing about it except the freedom of choices. I now team drive for an LTL carrier making well over 100k and work 4.5 days a week. Life is good and stress free!
I thank you for posting this to let those who are thinking about being an owner-operator know the risks. Being an owner-operator is being a business owner. There are risks to owning a company. And, the money a company brings in is not the money the owner is making. Too many owner operators brag about how much the company brings in but fails to say how much they (the owner) is putting into their pockets and keeping (profit).
Your Lifestyle and Spending Habits will Predict if you can Survive as a Owner Operator. Cannot pay yourself until you have 20k to 50k. The more Money you have backing you the More you will Survive as an Owner Operator 💯
For real man. I dont get dudes who dont keep a fat bankroll for shit like this. Or spend so much they cant invest and make extra with their savings. Some people got real responsibility but some of these dudes blow their cash on dumb shit and end up ruined.
Owner operator myself. The only reason? I like my freedom. Great video. 👍 I could make more money with a good company. PAC-MAN here. I have my own authority. Flatbed!
Your channel is the first that tells it like it is. It's dedication, determination.and, drive. You can't be a QUITTER!!!! You either want it or you don't. It can be painful and, worthwhile. Keep the wheels moving, and take loads you might not want to. Money pays bills, and fuel. Sitting doesn't.
Many people don't realize how just an hour's delay can cost you a day's work when driving over the road. you get delayed and can't make a delivery on time quite often if they tell you come back tonight, come back in the morning.
Right! Everytime I get on a scale full of fuel I'm like damn tools! But the second I take even one off board, even if I haven't used it in years, I'll need it!....
99% of truckers are not mechanics. If you're engine blows. Good luck repairing it yourself without a shop. Even if you're a mechanic you need the parts/machines to get the truck going.
It's good seeing videos like this and I appreciate the honesty because too many people are ashamed of showing to downsides of what they do. Keep it up and best of luck to you and your business
Hang in there brother you will get rid of those bills cause I can tell on your face that's killing you and you are working towards that. Better days ahead . Great video.
Youve got great videos brother. Im currently going through the CDL school (paid for by the Army). Great insight into all of the aspects of the life. Makes me really need to balance all the options I will have as a Driver.
Even if I spend 20 years in this industry I will never buy my own rig. As a mega carrier company driver, I’m netting very well with full medical, dental, and I’m financially responsible for zero repairs and fuel ⛽️. I don’t have to own my truck to feel like a “real” truck driver. As a bonus I don’t have to worry about anything but pickups and deliveries.
Not a steering wheel holder,he's a steerer. You gotta watch your mirrors, feel the vibes through your seat, hear how the rig sounds and feel the handling. More than a steerer but a trucker for real. I see your vids of accidents on the highways and think they've been driving with nothing between the ears. Stayback, stay focussed and turn your radio down so as you can hear whats going on.
Nobody out here driving trucks away from their family and not making money it’s called a maintenance account and building your credit before u go into business. Don’t spend it just because u got it, save for that rain
One thing I've learned after watching several channels for a couple years now is, don't start out in debt, keep your overhead low, STACK STACK STACK your $$$$, and don't haul cheap freight! I would only need to pay myself $1000 a week net.....no more than I bank currently as a local company driver. And with that, I can pay off my new 30 year mortgage in less than 10 years....my ONLY goal. Any excess would stay in the business account for those weeks off or huge unexpected events.
You can probably make a ton of money in Midland, TX that's where I live. It's not a pretty place, but this is where people come to make money. Other than stacking wouldn't it also be beneficial to get a 2nd truck and hire a driver?
@@mikhailhunter5277 it can be. People want to quickly do that but woth a note that they have to pay rather than pay cash or own the truck first then put a driver in. Meaning, you can't force someone else to get YOUR bills paid. People can quit for any reason or tear your truck up which brings heavy expenses and you're still having to pay the note plus the insurance and now the other truck you drive has to pay both and all the other bills. Things sound good until you're in it. You have to get inside the situation so you can see how green the grass is
Thanks, I totally get it. I've been trying to get a used vehicle dealership going for the last 2 years. People think we make so much money. No. I could write a book called "A million ways to lose money as a business owner". Last year my Sales were about $600k, but my costs were also about $600k. It was a terrible year, I basically worked for free, and had a part time job to make ends meet. So I'm shutting it down, but I learned a ton
Everything your saying in this video is true because I used to think the same about making $6,000 a week. My truck was giving me lots of issues to the point that I became a slave to my truck and had to get rid of it. The truck comes first no matter what and that interfered with my relationship at home financially🤦🏻♂️!
Really appreciate your videos. Been driving for over 10 years and I’ve just now decided to wanna take a crack at it alone. You don’t sugar coat anything and I find your information to be really helpful. Be safe out there and keep the videos coming.
Depends on what his fixed costs are. Everyone is different from one degree to another. One thing I see is that trailer goes through tires like Cookie Monster through a plate of cookies.
I highly doubt that all he makes is only 2k. Besides he is driving a night cab which makes me think he does long hauling. Long hauls can usually make more than 6k a week net O/O do keep only about 50%-60% of their revenue as profit though
I'm binging all your vlogs. The way you explain the process is good. Learning alot from you and Justin. The process is the important part here. If you have a janky process you'll fail.
I’m honestly surprised how you’re still in business…you went empty !!!900miles!!! To a shop for a $2000.00 repair? Than, you go empty yet again few hundred miles for a load that’s not even worth it anymore. I understand, set backs happen, but the broker should understand why you need to cancel your return load, especially if it’s landstar on both loads and that they can verify that there was an issue at your delivery if you’re worried about that. You’re operating like your time is free and unlimited. Future OPs…be **careful** where you get your information from. Guys like this will scare you and discouraged you. This is HIS experience and HIS poor choices. This doesn’t have to be your trucking experience. Use common sense, put money aside for repairs and licensing, Don’t have live a lifestyle off your GROSS income and you’ll be fine. Is trucking easy? Lol No, you already know that. Will your truck brake? Definitely. Is it all worth it? Yes. I have been an owner OP since I was 23 years old. My truck, my trailer, my authority, I load myself. If a 23 year old can do all that, anyone can. You can make a great living In trucking, just don’t do dumb things like DH’ing 900 miles to a shop because they treat you like “family”. Find a knowledgeable local shop, and fix your truck at home as much as possible. And if you Brake down on the road, find a near by shop. Ridiculous.
There's more to it than that haggais is 1 of the best shops in the country 99% of disel repair shops are hacks im surprised he even knew about them tbh theres only 3 shops in the country id bring my truck to if i couldn't or didn't want to fix it & hags is 1 of them... ive had the dealership themselves overtorque a set of manifold bolts that snapped off in 2 months again & charge $2k good mechanics that know everything about these trucks are dam near non existent.
Ya this guy is making lots of dumb choices.. I’d love to see his breakdown of how not working for a week still resulted in 4k expenses… the majority of expenses incurred in A $6k week netting $2-2500 in profit are mostly running expenses such as gas and tax. If your not doing any work that week the only expense you should have is insurance (approx $250 per week). You won’t be buying gas and paying a bunch of taxes on loads your not carrying and revenue your not generating. this video is dumb lol
A random chain of events hits me so hard I cant keep up with a cargo van but I will not surrender I’m on my way to the semi…thanks for the encouraging video
Being an owner op from Canada, I can relate. I had a T660 before I got my 579 and I had 3 breakdowns with the T660 that cost me over $20,000. Being from Canada, shops in the US love to rack up the bill because they know I have no other option. It’s tough going out here, mix in how covid has effected the Canada/US markets, it makes it even more challenging.
I drove two different T660's for two different companies and both drank engine coolant like water. It never had any coolant leaks and it would run a normal engine temperature while driving.
Can I ask you how many years you've driven a truck before being and O/O ? I'm from Canada too, and I try to see if it's possible for me to stay in my business (financial advisor) and make my CDL, drive maybe 1 or 2 years to learn the ropes, then buy my own truck and book my loads !
This is very important for anyone considering starting a business, especially a business in which the input is not controllable. Business owners must have sufficient capital to weather the inevitable shortages of incoming business.
That's basic entrepreneurship. How to plan and prepare for events that will impede your success. Expecting the worst but getting a good day makes you more thankful
I can definitely relate to what you’re talking about because I have been struggling so far as an owner operator. I bought my truck in June 2020 and made only a few trips on it and then in August 2020 it broke down and went into the shop and I’ve only made one trip on it’s between August and now and it’s been in the shop ever since. I probably spent $40,000 on it to replace a motor and put lotta brand new stuff on it and now it’s having emission problems because the motor that the rebuilding company has sold me was a deleted motor I never knew so I’m just running into whole bunch of headaches and I’ve been running as a company driver because I can’t even lease a truck. I am just running as a company driver for the company that my truck is leased on to just to pay for the repair bills they just ridiculous so I know what is it life is not peachy as an owner operator
Good luck to you man and hopefully you get it fixed well and with not too much of time or money. That's why I'm going to buy a new truck so I don't have to deal with unpredictable big repairs. It's a gamble with used trucks and that's one gamble I won't take.
@@Nihil2005 ya I regret buying my truck I should have bought a glider truck or saved my money for a better truck. You can buy a nice used truck but if you don’t know the maintenance history of the truck that’s when it becomes a gamble
@@EddieV19 Yeah, exactly. I've talked to some owner operators who bought used trucks and those that don't have breakdowns usually say, "I got lucky with this truck!" It's like they sound like they won the lottery at times.
@@Nihil2005 yes exactly, I would honestly make sure that truck has all the records before buying it used or buy a messed up truck and restore it and rebuild the engine and you should be better off. But after I get my truck back and make some $$$ imma sell it and buy a a truck with a glider motor these newer motors without warranty go to the shops often
Owning and operating a Trucking bussiness of even one truck, takes a completly different mindset than being an employee who drives a truck. The majority of O/O's don't and or don't ever aquire the mindset required. There's a significant difference between being an employee than a bussiness person. Owning a Brick and Morter bussines has expenses and so does Trucking. The basic difference is, owning a Brick and Morter bussiness vs Trucking is, one gets to stay home and the other doesn't. Truck requires the wheels to be turning to make money and wanting to go home or stay home for any length of time means the wheels are not turning. Owning and operating a trucking bussiness and or just being an employee who drives one. Is a life style one has opted for vs the stay at home brick and morter owner or one who is employed at one.
You are 100% Correct thats why you need a plan for me driving a truck means save all the money invest it and get the fuck out as soon as i can if you dont do that you will end up spending your life behind the wheel and there is nothing more important than TIME and HEALTH
The more I hear about other trucking experiences, the more glad I am to drive for a huge Teamster Union company. My pay is good, I have never had an unpleasant interaction with either local or regional dispatch, my company paid Blue Cross family medical is great with strong dental and optical, pension, home every weekday and weekend, dedicated route, job security, all options based on seniority, regular pay increases keyed to inflation, I never touch freight, and I stop and rest whenever I want. Every driver at our terminal does his job safely and diligently because we know when we have a good thing and we want to keep it. Something that is never addressed in any of these owner-operator videos is the issue of medical insurance. When an individual goes to find their own medical insurance they're at the mercy of having a very small risk pool. A large company means large company risk spread over a wide employee pool and for me, much better medical insurance. Since in America medical coverage is absolutely connected to our jobs, this for me is a huge huge issue. Almost no one can cover the expense of a single family member experiencing a catastrophic medical occurrence.
So true. I really wonder about how realistic they are about their money when they have to include the cost of benefits. Like when I take a vacation, I get paid. Plus I don't have to worry about truck expenses that keep on ticking. Like some people even have to pay to put their truck in storage for a week or two before they can take off to go fishing.
Salute Brother, People in general have never had a real business to begin with so basically their uneducated in the business side of things. God Bless the rest of the year. Will Pray for you and TY for your Job. Hard-working Amercians.
I understand what you’re saying I use to think like this too now I just have good weeks and bad weeks set your self up for a month then two and so on that’s what I did I’ve been an owner operator for over 15 years
Good information as usual man thanks! I'm starting trucking school this month and I've dreamed of being an owner/operator since I was a kid so any info is helpful! On my way brother hope to see you out there one day! Stay driven and stay safe driver! 😉
Am I the only one who’s happy and content with being a regional truck driver for a major trucking company and making my measly little 50-60k a year and not having to worry about repair cost and insurance and things like that? I get home every single weekend also. Idk why but just about everyone I come across always talks about going owner op or tries to push me in the direction of owner op and are completely baffled when I tell them I’m just fine and dandy staying a company driver... I can’t be the only one can I?!
I’m with you bro . I like my home daily fuel hauling job lol . I’d only consider going owner op if I am able to get my dream truck but other than that I go to work do my job come home and enjoy my weekends off not worrying about having to do maintenance on my days off
Another great video is always matt, I need to give you a call someday... Two trips for me this week down to poplar bluff...... Something that you said at the end of this video, and I'm sure people watching it understand, but to be clear, you say, if you can make this much money driving somebody else's truck,.... Well, what's even better is that technically, you are driving your truck. You are leasing to purchase, so you're not just renting, You're building equity, assuming you're going to stick it out. I might have to come back.... And then, you said something else, and I've been preaching this to you, and towards the end of the video you admitted it, the lease purchase guys, at 19 cents a mile, are spending less in maintenance then you did this last year.. and me as well.... Not to mention, they're not taking the risk that you and I are with a major major expense right around the corner.... I don't know why you're not driving one of those freightliners yet.... And I'm questioning why I left
I want to go to Owner Op, but I feel I still have much to learn first, the things that scare me are things like finding the loads or enough to be profitable, keeping up with insurance, fuel, and the maintenance, what if I have a breakdown, etc. As a company driver, you do not worry about any of that. They work on the trucks, if something wrong with it, that is their problem, give me another truck. Fuel, they pay for it, Insurance, not my problem, Loads, they always have one for me, If I break down I just call it in and they have a mechanic there in an hour or two to fix the issue or send a wrecker to tow it in and I just jump in another truck. As an owner-operator all those logistics are on you, all the cost is on you, all the responsibility is on you, you are on your own. That can be scary for someone that thinks about that stuff. But I still want to do it, just want to make sure I do it right.
Very very few people manage to go O/O successfully. If you are having doubts it’s because your gut is telling you it’s a bad idea. Sure, some make it work, but face the facts: These major carriers aren’t advertising & pushing lease op & owner operator recruitment because they wanna help you become a millionaire, they do it because it makes them more money.
Probably the best owner op video on TH-cam, I myself am an owner op own authority who just run strictly Texas San Antonio is my home, running 53ft stepdeck with ramps, no tarps lol. I co-sign this message. Good luck fella owner ops. Peace!!
That’s why you must have a minimum of 60 to 80K , if not well over, dollars of cash from savings ON TOP of your current networking capital, ie: a decent, well maintained, not too used, tractor and trailer. Also you must have a minimum of at least two years of direct experience in the trucking industry as a truck driver. Anything less than that it would be a formula for a disaster. Keep in mind that real knowledge comes out with experience on the field, observation and time, all along with a strong desire to succeed on achieving a decent life worth to live. What do I mean when I talk about a “decent life” ? Well, a decent life worth of living is the one you don’t get into a crazy pattern of consumption, free of unnecessary goods, like so many people ends up expending a whooping mortgage of $4,000.00 monthly payments; and or having half a dozen children, two wives (an ex and your actual gal) , .. two-three brand new fancy cars, a dog, etc etc. In few words: don’t chew what you aren’t able to swallow. Live frugally, live a debt free life ! 😶
@@СтепанБандера-ы8у Yes, Indeed. That was somehow implicit in the itemized “knowledge” as a result of the inevitable experience accumulated over the years. ✌️
Love your comment dude. ❤ all that you said its the main reason why truckers fail.. they spend money havent earn yet. First build the company, save money try always to pay cash then relax people do it the other way around
I'm a car hauler. I drive a company truck. I'm out here about 4 and 1/2 to 5 days a week and I stay at a hotel every night that I'm out. Things have been slow lately and with that being said I usually gross between $1700 and $2,000 per week. I have no headaches and no expenses other than the food that I prepare at home to bring with me. Also, I make anywhere between $1 and $1.35 per mile. Hmm... let me get my calculator out!
This video should be required for all lease , lease purchase , Operater ( wanna be ) ... BEFORE They can sign on the doted line ( it would save Em more than money ) !!!!
I know the feeling bro. I had 3 break downs in 2 trips. All together about 5k in repairs Annnnd someone hit my truck and ran away I was down a week for body work
In my humble opinion (I am not a trucker nor ever have been behind the wheel of a truck) the root of the problem is the vision people have about it. When you think about being an owner operator you have to see it as a company, not as an employee who will get a payment each month or each two weeks. When you have a company, whether it is a big company or a store, obviously not everything you sell goes to your wallet. A company can sell u$d 1.000.000 in a month but in order to achieve that you have to buy the the manufacturing goods, calculate the manufacturing process costs, salaries of employess, etc; and from your revenues separate a percentage for future contigencies or unexpected breakdowns or losses in a month or term; a reservoir for a list events you all already know. The amount of sales a company makes deoesn't mean that goes to the owners bank account, same as the ammount of sales a coffee shop makes for selling coffee and food doesn't go to its owners bank account. If someones doesn't visualize being O/O as having your own company, your own business, instead of thinking of a fixed amount of money in a paycheck monthly, then that person has a very big problem from the very begining, and reality can hit really hard. P.S. Sorry for the possible incorrect accounting terms (or wrong exact translation that may end up in spanglish lol)
I don't understand why guys fluff up their numbers so much. My mind instantly goes to 25% of their number is their actual net pay check. Make 6k your take home net is 1.5k deposited into your personal account take out a few bonuses if things go well... How do you not go bat shit crazy working 6 days a week? I stay local, to avoid the cabin fever. You guys out on the road for long periods of time are amazing or a little crazy.
Finally! A brother that’s telling it straight. You actually caught my sympathy with this. I know you’re not trying for that but I can relate. Tell them, they better get dam good at wrenching too!
I drove i40 through Albuquerque Amarillo Little Rock Memphis ill never forget that week. That winter storm stayed with me from Flagstaff all the way to Birmingham. Traffic stopped twice on i40 2 different times for 3 hours. I wish you guys could've seen the landing gear on my trailer that night when I got into Oklahoma.
I agree with alot of what you were saying. However your mathematical calculations are a bit skewed. You were merging potential and actual figures. If you miss a load that doesn't actually constitute an actual loss. You never had it to lose it. That would be considered a loss to potential income not a loss to actual income. A general rule of thumb and a good starting point for O/O is 30/40/30. You may need to tweak these percentages a bit considering different variables. But 30% of revenue to driver/ 40% of revenue to the truck and operating costs/ and 30% of revenue back into the business for taxes and other business expenses.
Aye man point blank simple. If you want that big reward and get to your dream. It won’t be easy. You gona either push though it or give up. But remember. The harder it is. The more challenges you overcome. The sweeter the success!!! Good luck to all the entrepreneurs chasing their dreams! Remember your hard works isn’t only going to change your life but the ones around you! You go through the bs so they don’t have to! Keep pushing
I've thought many times about becoming an O/O, but then I think back to when I was a general contractor back in the 90's and that thought quickly goes away. Today I am a company driver doing local work. I haul just liquefied gases, work five days a week and home everyday. I make almost 100k a year. In 2004 I got into liquid hazmat and never looked back.
Love the Truth!! Must have a large reserve account. Ups and downs happen in every business. Owner/Operators take the hit for all costs and time lost. Many company drivers get paid while they wait for repairs they don't have to pay for because they earn less per mile, but it can be worth it when one takes the 'whole' story into account. Good vid, thanks!
Wow!! that just happen to me and I only been in this business for 6 month. I lost 10,000 in one week. I’m staying in the trucking business now! Thanks SLOWJOY TRUCKING
Follow the law. No radio. Keep your eyes one mile ahead to one mile behind and both sides. Also on your instruments. Your goal is no accidents, tickets, damage or injuries. - TAV 🇺🇸
I’ve watched a few dozen videos and researched O/O over the road trucking business. I’m glad I watched yours last and you said it like it is. I’m retired and thinking of buying a new rig and trailer outright after getting some experience working for a company. Any advice if getting into a new unit makes it easier avoiding downtime and your thoughts would be appreciated.
You can go months or years without major issues then blow an engine,transmission,or diffs within a few weeks and be in the hole just like that,ask me how I know.......
Two of the biggest financial problems that a lot of people encounter are living above own means and self employed individuals are lowering own rate into bankruptcy.
Here’s my first four loads at Landstar INCLUDING revenue! th-cam.com/video/T2kQPtx2tTQ/w-d-xo.html
When a load gets pushed back, you probably bought the fuel for that load, yes in the end it works out. But you put that fuel money out.
I've told some drivers that think its all roses... when everything is good, sure its pretty good. But when does everything in trucking go perfect....(ill pause for your laughter)
When you're off for repairs, weather, or whatever, those payments aren't paused. Truck payment, trailer payment, insurance, vacation (yah, what's that)... your revenue stops.
Keep up with truths!!!
What till you do a load for landstar and months later they take money back for the load you already did watch your invoices they do sneaky stuff. Use to work for them in the 90's then I went independent since.
Just started o/o sept of 2021, my truck engine just blew. I was 25k down a hole, yeah I was making money but u really need to put away for maintenance and everything else. I’ve been down 1 month and bills piling up.
20yr drive 10yr o/o suck it up buttercup
@@axist1235 if you didn't set aside money for maintenance, that's your own stupidity. At a minimum you should be setting aside 20 cents per mile when you first start off and you never stop saving it up even if you get to 30k in a savings account. Maybe once you get to 30k in an account you can drop down to 10 cents per mile but that can be dangerous.
Like one trucker told me, I don’t make a lot of money, I just handle a lot of money. Makes sense
Lol, true enough
Well said!
Most truckers I k is make lots of money, but lack financial education hence their bottom line suffers. When I see truckers buying a 60k truck 4 years old having to pay 1800 a month in truck payments, and then another 1200 a month in repairs and maintenance. Just buy a new one for 2800$ a month with no repairs costs. Abs you’ll get 8 mpg instead of 6.0-6.5
The difference pays for itself after a couple of loads
@@dinocosta4421 fuel mileage is huge savings
@@dinocosta4421 older trucks are more dependable the 379s with 3406b sure you get less mileage but its not in the shop for warranty work with the crappy emissions system you could be down for a few days waiting for warranty work and waiting for parts a rebuilt 379 will be on the road not in the shop and if you need a repair its usually minor and can be fixed the same day a rebuilt 379 3406e will give you 20 years of service at much less than half the cost of a new poor quality truck so burning more fuel with your 379 is still much cheaper than a new truck plus you will be on the road in style and not in the shop
I retired after 36 years as an o/o. The last 10.25 years with landstar. My advice would be to run a business like a business , watch how you spend money, keep your deadhead as low as possible , if you see something needing repairs do it immediately and don't do it piece meal. I sold my 379 Pete with 1.5 million miles on it and it's still on the road. I did an mainframe at 1.150 million miles but I never skimped on any repairs
Good luck to all of you and be safe.
Lol..i prob just bought your pete🤣..
This is a how to video. 'how to make sure nobody watches the video' back ground noise much?
@CPT. PRICELESS dead head means you are driving with no load, and piece meal i believe means not fixing something properly
@@Toz-Y piecemeal is when you replace parts or do maintenance or replace parts as things come up rather than proactively on a schedule. very expensive to have to do big repairs far away from home on a short timeframe. Deadhead is running empty and not getting paid for it
@@mick112but here you are.
A old school trucker told me that I want to have 26k in my business account per tractor that I own. Just so I DON'T end up like this. As far as being an O/O there is a cost to be the boss.
When that rainy day account gets below 30-35k I start to get worried
More like 50K now
I personally like to always have 100k minimum in my business account for rainy days. Did I get to this point overnight no. I worked with my old man my whole trucking career until he passed earlier this year. There where times where if it wasn’t for him I would have gone belly up. I thank god for my old man.
Sorry for your lost.
Man I been doing o/o local for 3 years now and my goal was always 20k at least to feel safe. I got up to around 15-18k in the first 3-4 months and then haven’t been able to get past 15 to save my life and that’s with only paying myself $400 a week most of the time. Hoping it’ll get better for us all. I’d be thrilled if I could keep 25k in the nest egg
As an o/o the truck does not break every week. I've run 2500 miles every week for a month straight without doing anything on the truck. The most important thing is repairing at your home town which is cheaper then on the road.
What kind of truck do you have. Drives, engine, ratio…
@@subconsciouslyinyahead7977 fld120, N14, 3.70, cruise at 68mph at 1500rpm
@@ernestoramon3700 what Truck
@@subconsciouslyinyahead7977 freightliner FLD120
Exactly!!...
Most truthful in trucking I ever heard in 30 years. Remember the time you don’t sleep while loading/unloading, looking for new loads, driving, and paperwork!!! Wife and I are on salary, company team driving! 5 weeks paid vacation per year! We stay out 3 months at a time! We don’t rent Or own a residence. No electric bill ect.... we visit family and stay in nice hotels when on vacation. Bring home 3,000 per week combined. Average 25,000 miles per month! We love our job! We don’t have any headache if break downs occur, no slip seating and still collect our salary every week! Owner operator makes more but my stress level is way less!! Thx for a great video 👍👍👍🤠. You haven’t worked a day when you love what you do 🤣😂✊🤠
I have had a ton of setbacks since ‘03. Expensive ones too! I never count what I could have made, however, when I know it’s gonna be a few days or more to get going, I jump in someone else’s truck and work. Then what you make you keep. Network with the masses, there’s a seat somewhere to fill for a few days. Head up and roll on!!
WISE WORDS MY FRIEND!!!
Man I really appreciate this video and the comments. Lately I’ve been so frustrated because anything I make goes towards some issue that has come up with the truck. The time we spend in our trucks and when payday finally comes I’m paying for some repair or maintenance cost can get frustrating. Thanks for all your stories. It helps to see that I’m not the only one who goes through this shit.
📩👆For more information on how to start trucking
Love yours. And several others drivers...but curious...Been attempting to do a 2-3 week apprenticeship..... precisely to avoid situations of this magnitude . No offers yet.... Six months later...any ideas?! Why?
That’s is so true! That happened to me and my wife while she was riding with me around this time last year and we didn’t get a paycheck for over a month and we survived it, plus we were dealing with that we just came from a two week vacation (well deserved) on a cruise MSC Seaside which almost got stuck on the boat because the same day that we got back to the Miami port they closed all the ports. But it is the reality of being an Owner Operator it comes with a huge sacrifice behind it. So that put us in the hole for over $13,000 dollars but we ran hard two months on the road and recuperate from it thanks to our God. Great subject to talk about because everyone thinks that us O/O we make tons of money when in reality after expenses it’s not that much, but I’m happy because I love what I do. Keep on trucking and Stay safe!! 🚛💨🇵🇷🙏
As a company driver you are just one slice of a pie to a business’ expenses. Once you buy a truck and go O/O you inherit the whole pie of a carrier basically. And those other expenses in that pie get a lot larger because you don’t have hourly employees at $30 a hour to maintain your equipment, you’re paying $80-100+ shop rates. You aren’t getting 25% discounts on tires because you don’t order 100 a month. You aren’t getting group insurance discount rates because you’re just one truck. You aren’t getting whole sale prices on trucks with little to no interest in financing because you order 100 units at a time.
So if you think becoming an O/O is a huge pay raise while not taking on the responsibility of maintaining your own equipment, doing your own accounting and taxes, etc. you are starving your income and setting yourself up for failure when those other duties still need to be paid for. Those other slices of the pie get larger not smaller.
It’s not rocket science. It’s just common sense in business operations. This is why ALL businesses have such a high failure rate, and this is why the ones that dude succeed the owners worked hard and didn’t care about that new house or new RV when they seen all that extra money coming in.
I started out as a lease purchase with the mega carrier I got my CDL with. I paid $650 a WEEK for my truck. I still paid myself the same rate I got as a company driver. I took the same amount of hometime I did as a company driver. I did my own accounting, my own PMs, and I was keeping more money from my settlements in my business checking than I was paying myself. I got me a used truck for $800 a month and that saved me an additional $1,800 a month from my company lease. I still paid myself the same rate until that truck was paid for. I’ve never once struggled out here. Never once worried about breakdowns and not being able to afford them. And I’m a lease on with a mega carrier making $1.27 a mile plus fuel surcharge. So for the guys out here making $2+ a mile and talking about how much of a struggle it is, for me personally it’s a reflection of their own choices and it’s not the industry’s fault.
You got guys out here seeing all of this money they can make and they go out and buy fancy trucks and materialistic things instead of paying off their fines for being a drug trafficker, it’s only going to be karma waiting on the other end of that stick when things slow up.
I had to screenshot this man. Surprised your comment didn’t get more likes. Here’s my question for you and I’m aware you’re an O/O but you still know the business.
I’m 23, no kids, no big bills. Just looking for the best route to take at my age. I start with prime next month I plan on driving with them a year to finish my contract, gain experience and learn the business, get my cdl and save all my money for that year. I just don’t know what route to go after that. The more O/O videos I watch, the more I realize I don’t want to do it. Nothing wrong with being an O/O I just don’t think it fits my personality. I want to end up staying local making 100k + a year driving for company with all my benefits. Any words of wisdom you can give to me given everything i just told u ? Also, What should I be hauling to make the most money? Any advice is appreciated
Thank you for that
It's a business. Some guys make a good living with a hotdog stand and some guys go broke with an oil well. As for me, I wish I had done this o/o thing 30 years ago. Started during the tough times (2008). Made thru that and I'll never work for anyone else again. I'm the best boss I ever had. Best money I ever made.
Paying off their fines for being a drug trafficker?
@@cm2274you already know what his red neck racist jealous ass meant ….let them tell on themselves(they always do in sone way)knew he was full of shit when I read that comment.
This is such valuable information! And no one talks about it. My husband and I have been learning this since he quit driving for large companies and went out on his own a year ago. We love the wide variety of information on your channel! Your flatbed securement videos are great, too.
Curious how that is working out for you guys.?
@@Chris-iy3do I don’t remember exactly what this video was about, but trucking is going great! Let me know if you have specific questions!
Dm me if you need a dispatcher!
That’s life with any business! I love being an owner op don’t see going back. Life is never easy
True, but he's talking to people who are pondering whether to begin or not! They need to hear the truth, that you better have some $$$$$ in the bank before you start!👍
So true. I love it too. And I took care of the major thing that was draining my Money. Let's just say I no longer go to California 😉. Now I'm banking 😁
I am not s trucker never was I am retired but do video and photo stuff but still life is never easy no matter what
@@anthonywatford5256 Is that about your ex?
I understand that losing a week sucks it happens to all of us but you are not losing $6000 a week in your costs you are losing your fixed cost which means your truck payment then your insurance depending on the price of your truck if it’s new or not or if it’s paid off your variable costs which account for more like your gas fuel or a zero because you aren’t running so that’s a little misleading . What you are mentioning maybe is opportunity cost is well with Colin economic‘s which means all the costs put together including the cost of the load that you would’ve had although opportunity cost exists it is a fallacy because everything in life has an opportunity cost so that’s life .
It’s definitely a roller coaster ride. Sometimes a ton of fun. Other times can reduce a grown man to tears.
There's no crying in trucking!!!
@@jcsully it’s a figure of speech.
@@mikedanaher3413 I know. I was just being stupid.
@@jcsully 😂
To survive as an O/O, you drive 52 weeks a year and take a “vacation” when your truck is in the shop. Take a “day off” when your load isn’t ready till tomorrow. You work your ass off.
Couldn’t be further from the truth
@@sgrafton4824 New guys with a big truck payment need to hear that. What would you tell them?
@@1littlefish if you’re a new guy with a big truck payment, you didn’t do your homework. Get rid of the big new truck and buy a truck that you can afford. Look up Dave Ramsey and Kevin Rutherford . I’m not perfect, but I’ve been doing this for 25 years, always try to learn.
Buy a truck you can afford is the real deal....I bought a 2015 international prostar with a Cummins....21k last February...get your own authority and make sure you are working on the truck more than a shop...all about business minded and do all small stuff yourself...oil changes, grease fittings, suspension..etc
I work 4 days a week and after expenses make $2,000. Everyone’s situation is different. Assuming everyone has to work their ass off is ignorant.
Good information. For me i drive local for a company. About a grand a week for 40 hrs. Home every day, 8 to 4. Company truck. They take care of everything no headaches. Appreciate the dedication owner operators have. My 39th year driving.Have a great day
Take home or gross?
@@justinreid2422 take home $880.00
Any honest o/o or prior o/o will tell you this video in spot on. Thanks for keeping it honest Brian. I been there, done it. I don’t miss nothing about it except the freedom of choices. I now team drive for an LTL carrier making well over 100k and work 4.5 days a week. Life is good and stress free!
I seriously needed to hear that. Thanks!
how do I team drive for an LTL carrier ?
Mr.LordFarquaad find a carrier you’re interested in. Some will hire you on and pair you with someone. It’s best you find a partner and both apply.
What is team driving?
@@kelvinhicks1082 , Two drivers in one truck transporting freight
You have to have very good credit, tons of patience, and nerves of steel. In that order
You're telling my story. I feel bad hearing it, but on the other hand, it's kind of comforting knowing I'm not the only one.
SPOT ON! Same for me. Through HELL and back a FEW TIMES. Still HERE. Thank GOD and my FAMILY for their support. Best wishes my friend. Be safe.
I thank you for posting this to let those who are thinking about being an owner-operator know the risks. Being an owner-operator is being a business owner. There are risks to owning a company. And, the money a company brings in is not the money the owner is making. Too many owner operators brag about how much the company brings in but fails to say how much they (the owner) is putting into their pockets and keeping (profit).
So true, so so true.
And owner/op to me is like a TimeShare, it just don’t make no sense! 🤦🏽♀️
@@olgaharris1103 What doesnt make sense about it?
Your Lifestyle and Spending Habits will Predict if you can Survive as a Owner Operator.
Cannot pay yourself until you have 20k to 50k. The more Money you have backing you the More you will Survive as an Owner Operator 💯
💯
For real man. I dont get dudes who dont keep a fat bankroll for shit like this. Or spend so much they cant invest and make extra with their savings. Some people got real responsibility but some of these dudes blow their cash on dumb shit and end up ruined.
@@fudgepuppy9683
Big Facts
Yeap definitely you always gonna have 20k laying around for it...
Facts!!!!
Owner operator myself. The only reason? I like my freedom. Great video. 👍 I could make more money with a good company. PAC-MAN here. I have my own authority. Flatbed!
Same here. It's the freedom I love the most
Facts the learning curve is real, but I'm still here.
Hang in there bro. Your blessed your healthy and young your very wealthy already God Bless You!
@@guyazbell7437 thank you
Your channel is the first that tells it like it is. It's dedication, determination.and, drive. You can't be a QUITTER!!!! You either want it or you don't. It can be painful and, worthwhile. Keep the wheels moving, and take loads you might not want to. Money pays bills, and fuel. Sitting doesn't.
Many people don't realize how just an hour's delay can cost you a day's work when driving over the road. you get delayed and can't make a delivery on time quite often if they tell you come back tonight, come back in the morning.
This is why I Carrie so many tool in my truck. Bro I have done so much repairs on side of the road.
Right! Everytime I get on a scale full of fuel I'm like damn tools! But the second I take even one off board, even if I haven't used it in years, I'll need it!....
I know your capabilities though 😂
@@rtrucking101 yeah lol
99% of truckers are not mechanics.
If you're engine blows. Good luck repairing it yourself without a shop. Even if you're a mechanic you need the parts/machines to get the truck going.
I changed injecter cups in a truck stop parking lot with slide hammer and a tap a die set.
This was Gold information my guy. Needed this
Wow, finally a O/O that can actually do basic math and tell it how it is.
It's good seeing videos like this and I appreciate the honesty because too many people are ashamed of showing to downsides of what they do. Keep it up and best of luck to you and your business
2:19 whenever a truck driver says "i'll give you the short version" get comfy, you're going to be here a while.
4:30 Whenever someone says their mechanic is like family and doesnt overcharge them, they're delusional LOL
Hang in there brother you will get rid of those bills cause I can tell on your face that's killing you and you are working towards that. Better days ahead . Great video.
Absolutely! Thanks
The 1099 speaks an entirely different language that I am learning.
Youve got great videos brother. Im currently going through the CDL school (paid for by the Army). Great insight into all of the aspects of the life. Makes me really need to balance all the options I will have as a Driver.
Finally a transparent, truthful, and honest person talk about the trucking Industry. Thank you sir!
Even if I spend 20 years in this industry I will never buy my own rig. As a mega carrier company driver, I’m netting very well with full medical, dental, and I’m financially responsible for zero repairs and fuel ⛽️. I don’t have to own my truck to feel like a “real” truck driver. As a bonus I don’t have to worry about anything but pickups and deliveries.
Your a steering wheel holder
@@paulhall518 Lol that's a good one 😄
To each their own 👍🏼
Like most jobs nobody ever looks at the benefits until it's too late.
Not a steering wheel holder,he's a steerer. You gotta watch your mirrors, feel the vibes through your seat, hear how the rig sounds and feel the handling. More than a steerer but a trucker for real. I see your vids of accidents on the highways and think they've been driving with nothing between the ears. Stayback, stay focussed and turn your radio down so as you can hear whats going on.
This dude always got a horror story about being an owner op, you like the guy at work that’s always complaining but has been there 25 years!😏
Nobody out here driving trucks away from their family and not making money it’s called a maintenance account and building your credit before u go into business. Don’t spend it just because u got it, save for that rain
@@chaco131 smartest guy in the room
The secret to survival: Progresso Soup and water diet.
Live a little... toss some ramen in there.
@@OKOKOKOKOKOKOK-zn2fynot live a little 😂
It's the first time I've caught one of your videos as soon as you dropped it. Looking forward to some good information. Keep safe out there brother
One thing I've learned after watching several channels for a couple years now is, don't start out in debt, keep your overhead low, STACK STACK STACK your $$$$, and don't haul cheap freight!
I would only need to pay myself $1000 a week net.....no more than I bank currently as a local company driver.
And with that, I can pay off my new 30 year mortgage in less than 10 years....my ONLY goal. Any excess would stay in the business account for those weeks off or huge unexpected events.
You'll go far
You can probably make a ton of money in Midland, TX that's where I live. It's not a pretty place, but this is where people come to make money.
Other than stacking wouldn't it also be beneficial to get a 2nd truck and hire a driver?
@@mikhailhunter5277 it can be. People want to quickly do that but woth a note that they have to pay rather than pay cash or own the truck first then put a driver in. Meaning, you can't force someone else to get YOUR bills paid. People can quit for any reason or tear your truck up which brings heavy expenses and you're still having to pay the note plus the insurance and now the other truck you drive has to pay both and all the other bills. Things sound good until you're in it. You have to get inside the situation so you can see how green the grass is
Thank you for always keeping it funky! Sometimes we don't like it but we have to remember the truth is always right around the corner.
This is so true for any type of trucking. Thank you for the honest video.
Thanks, I totally get it. I've been trying to get a used vehicle dealership going for the last 2 years. People think we make so much money. No. I could write a book called "A million ways to lose money as a business owner". Last year my Sales were about $600k, but my costs were also about $600k. It was a terrible year, I basically worked for free, and had a part time job to make ends meet. So I'm shutting it down, but I learned a ton
You officially became a financial advisor around the 20:50 mark.
APPRECIATE YA!!
This isn't the perspective alot out here wanted but it's the one they NEEDED!!
Everything your saying in this video is true because I used to think the same about making $6,000 a week. My truck was giving me lots of issues to the point that I became a slave to my truck and had to get rid of it. The truck comes first no matter what and that interfered with my relationship at home financially🤦🏻♂️!
One thing about O/Ors is that you’ll be hard pressed to find a lazy one. You guys truly understand the real essence of good work ethic.
This was extremely informative. As a person looking to get into O/O in the near future, this is preparing me for what to look forward to. Thanks
Same here..
Dm me if you need a dispatcher!
I sure wish you would break down your $4,000 per week expenses. That would help me understanding the risk vs. gain for buying my own truck.
Facts big bro... we need more truths tellers out here! Keep doing your thing!
No one wants to hear the truth man. Everyone wants to hear they are going to make all this money.
I wish Brian was still trucking. Hands down my favorite channel.
Good on mate, for sharing your story so openly! Prayers for your chiropractors success & get rid of that debt, it brings life back into you!👍🙏
Really appreciate your videos. Been driving for over 10 years and I’ve just now decided to wanna take a crack at it alone. You don’t sugar coat anything and I find your information to be really helpful. Be safe out there and keep the videos coming.
My friend if you are grossing 6k and netting only 2k you are messing up somewhere
He won't reply to this.
Maybe he’s putting some of the gross proceeds into a separate account like a savings for maintenance or something I could see that
Depends on what his fixed costs are. Everyone is different from one degree to another. One thing I see is that trailer goes through tires like Cookie Monster through a plate of cookies.
I highly doubt that all he makes is only 2k. Besides he is driving a night cab which makes me think he does long hauling. Long hauls can usually make more than 6k a week net
O/O do keep only about 50%-60% of their revenue as profit though
@@MUP-kn4np what is a "night cab"? thanks.
I'm binging all your vlogs. The way you explain the process is good. Learning alot from you and Justin. The process is the important part here. If you have a janky process you'll fail.
I’m honestly surprised how you’re still in business…you went empty !!!900miles!!! To a shop for a $2000.00 repair? Than, you go empty yet again few hundred miles for a load that’s not even worth it anymore. I understand, set backs happen, but the broker should understand why you need to cancel your return load, especially if it’s landstar on both loads and that they can verify that there was an issue at your delivery if you’re worried about that. You’re operating like your time is free and unlimited.
Future OPs…be **careful** where you get your information from. Guys like this will scare you and discouraged you. This is HIS experience and HIS poor choices. This doesn’t have to be your trucking experience. Use common sense, put money aside for repairs and licensing, Don’t have live a lifestyle off your GROSS income and you’ll be fine.
Is trucking easy? Lol No, you already know that.
Will your truck brake? Definitely.
Is it all worth it? Yes.
I have been an owner OP since I was 23 years old. My truck, my trailer, my authority, I load myself. If a 23 year old can do all that, anyone can. You can make a great living In trucking, just don’t do dumb things like DH’ing 900 miles to a shop because they treat you like “family”. Find a knowledgeable local shop, and fix your truck at home as much as possible. And if you Brake down on the road, find a near by shop. Ridiculous.
Yeah, I know plenty of Owners who don't have this guys issues. I'm waiting for a little more experience under by belt before going that way.
There's more to it than that haggais is 1 of the best shops in the country 99% of disel repair shops are hacks im surprised he even knew about them tbh theres only 3 shops in the country id bring my truck to if i couldn't or didn't want to fix it & hags is 1 of them... ive had the dealership themselves overtorque a set of manifold bolts that snapped off in 2 months again & charge $2k good mechanics that know everything about these trucks are dam near non existent.
Ya this guy is making lots of dumb choices.. I’d love to see his breakdown of how not working for a week still resulted in 4k expenses… the majority of expenses incurred in A $6k week netting $2-2500 in profit are mostly running expenses such as gas and tax. If your not doing any work that week the only expense you should have is insurance (approx $250 per week). You won’t be buying gas and paying a bunch of taxes on loads your not carrying and revenue your not generating. this video is dumb lol
A random chain of events hits me so hard I cant keep up with a cargo van but I will not surrender I’m on my way to the semi…thanks for the encouraging video
Being an owner op from Canada, I can relate. I had a T660 before I got my 579 and I had 3 breakdowns with the T660 that cost me over $20,000. Being from Canada, shops in the US love to rack up the bill because they know I have no other option. It’s tough going out here, mix in how covid has effected the Canada/US markets, it makes it even more challenging.
I drove two different T660's for two different companies and both drank engine coolant like water. It never had any coolant leaks and it would run a normal engine temperature while driving.
Can I ask you how many years you've driven a truck before being and O/O ? I'm from Canada too, and I try to see if it's possible for me to stay in my business (financial advisor) and make my CDL, drive maybe 1 or 2 years to learn the ropes, then buy my own truck and book my loads !
@@Nihil2005 Probably a bad head gasket or loose/worn head bolt, causing coolant to go out those smoke stacks.
This is why in the first 6-8 months of the business you build up your escrow before you start buying cars, houses etc.
I really do like your channel
Thank you for your honesty!
Thank you
This is very important for anyone considering starting a business, especially a business in which the input is not controllable. Business owners must have sufficient capital to weather the inevitable shortages of incoming business.
😂😂 I remember one month I took home about $12k & check my bank account a day later & that whole 12g was damn near gone, was a wake up call
You spent it on expenses or blew it on other stuff?
@@devonscope6222 all on expensive, & what’s funny nothing major but it adds up fast
That's basic entrepreneurship. How to plan and prepare for events that will impede your success. Expecting the worst but getting a good day makes you more thankful
I can definitely relate to what you’re talking about because I have been struggling so far as an owner operator. I bought my truck in June 2020 and made only a few trips on it and then in August 2020 it broke down and went into the shop and I’ve only made one trip on it’s between August and now and it’s been in the shop ever since. I probably spent $40,000 on it to replace a motor and put lotta brand new stuff on it and now it’s having emission problems because the motor that the rebuilding company has sold me was a deleted motor I never knew so I’m just running into whole bunch of headaches and I’ve been running as a company driver because I can’t even lease a truck. I am just running as a company driver for the company that my truck is leased on to just to pay for the repair bills they just ridiculous so I know what is it life is not peachy as an owner operator
Good luck to you man and hopefully you get it fixed well and with not too much of time or money. That's why I'm going to buy a new truck so I don't have to deal with unpredictable big repairs. It's a gamble with used trucks and that's one gamble I won't take.
@@Nihil2005 ya I regret buying my truck I should have bought a glider truck or saved my money for a better truck. You can buy a nice used truck but if you don’t know the maintenance history of the truck that’s when it becomes a gamble
@@EddieV19 Yeah, exactly. I've talked to some owner operators who bought used trucks and those that don't have breakdowns usually say, "I got lucky with this truck!" It's like they sound like they won the lottery at times.
@@Nihil2005 yes exactly, I would honestly make sure that truck has all the records before buying it used or buy a messed up truck and restore it and rebuild the engine and you should be better off. But after I get my truck back and make some $$$ imma sell it and buy a a truck with a glider motor these newer motors without warranty go to the shops often
You are right negative can be manifest in this business from one second to another in many way, and we better be ready to confront.
Owning and operating a Trucking bussiness of even one truck, takes a completly different mindset than being an employee who drives a truck. The majority of O/O's don't and or don't ever aquire the mindset required. There's a significant difference between being an employee than a bussiness person.
Owning a Brick and Morter bussines has expenses and so does Trucking. The basic difference is, owning a Brick and Morter bussiness vs Trucking is, one gets to stay home and the other doesn't. Truck requires the wheels to be turning to make money and wanting to go home or stay home for any length of time means the wheels are not turning. Owning and operating a trucking bussiness and or just being an employee who drives one. Is a life style one has opted for vs the stay at home brick and morter owner or one who is employed at one.
You are 100% Correct thats why you need a plan for me driving a truck means save all the money invest it and get the fuck out as soon as i can if you dont do that you will end up spending your life behind the wheel and there is nothing more important than TIME and HEALTH
Appreciate the experience and insight!😎
Keep on Truckin!
The more I hear about other trucking experiences, the more glad I am to drive for a huge Teamster Union company. My pay is good, I have never had an unpleasant interaction with either local or regional dispatch, my company paid Blue Cross family medical is great with strong dental and optical, pension, home every weekday and weekend, dedicated route, job security, all options based on seniority, regular pay increases keyed to inflation, I never touch freight, and I stop and rest whenever I want. Every driver at our terminal does his job safely and diligently because we know when we have a good thing and we want to keep it.
Something that is never addressed in any of these owner-operator videos is the issue of medical insurance. When an individual goes to find their own medical insurance they're at the mercy of having a very small risk pool. A large company means large company risk spread over a wide employee pool and for me, much better medical insurance. Since in America medical coverage is absolutely connected to our jobs, this for me is a huge huge issue. Almost no one can cover the expense of a single family member experiencing a catastrophic medical occurrence.
So true. I really wonder about how realistic they are about their money when they have to include the cost of benefits. Like when I take a vacation, I get paid. Plus I don't have to worry about truck expenses that keep on ticking. Like some people even have to pay to put their truck in storage for a week or two before they can take off to go fishing.
Salute Brother, People in general have never had a real business to begin with so basically their uneducated in the business side of things. God Bless the rest of the year. Will Pray for you and TY for your Job. Hard-working Amercians.
I understand what you’re saying I use to think like this too now I just have good weeks and bad weeks set your self up for a month then two and so on that’s what I did I’ve been an owner operator for over 15 years
Good information as usual man thanks! I'm starting trucking school this month and I've dreamed of being an owner/operator since I was a kid so any info is helpful! On my way brother hope to see you out there one day! Stay driven and stay safe driver! 😉
Am I the only one who’s happy and content with being a regional truck driver for a major trucking company and making my measly little 50-60k a year and not having to worry about repair cost and insurance and things like that? I get home every single weekend also. Idk why but just about everyone I come across always talks about going owner op or tries to push me in the direction of owner op and are completely baffled when I tell them I’m just fine and dandy staying a company driver... I can’t be the only one can I?!
right on brotha👍🏿
im comfortable in the lane im in just like in my company truck lol
@@g.i.joetrucker exactly 🤘🏻
I'm with you!!!
Great comment for anyone on the fence. Also insightful for newer Drivers who think they have to do 3 weeks out/3 days off to make a nice living.
I’m with you bro . I like my home daily fuel hauling job lol . I’d only consider going owner op if I am able to get my dream truck but other than that I go to work do my job come home and enjoy my weekends off not worrying about having to do maintenance on my days off
Another great video is always matt, I need to give you a call someday... Two trips for me this week down to poplar bluff...... Something that you said at the end of this video, and I'm sure people watching it understand, but to be clear, you say, if you can make this much money driving somebody else's truck,.... Well, what's even better is that technically, you are driving your truck. You are leasing to purchase, so you're not just renting, You're building equity, assuming you're going to stick it out. I might have to come back.... And then, you said something else, and I've been preaching this to you, and towards the end of the video you admitted it, the lease purchase guys, at 19 cents a mile, are spending less in maintenance then you did this last year.. and me as well.... Not to mention, they're not taking the risk that you and I are with a major major expense right around the corner.... I don't know why you're not driving one of those freightliners yet.... And I'm questioning why I left
I want to go to Owner Op, but I feel I still have much to learn first, the things that scare me are things like finding the loads or enough to be profitable, keeping up with insurance, fuel, and the maintenance, what if I have a breakdown, etc. As a company driver, you do not worry about any of that. They work on the trucks, if something wrong with it, that is their problem, give me another truck. Fuel, they pay for it, Insurance, not my problem, Loads, they always have one for me, If I break down I just call it in and they have a mechanic there in an hour or two to fix the issue or send a wrecker to tow it in and I just jump in another truck. As an owner-operator all those logistics are on you, all the cost is on you, all the responsibility is on you, you are on your own. That can be scary for someone that thinks about that stuff. But I still want to do it, just want to make sure I do it right.
Only way to do it right is to jus do it came from hauling gas great pay to port madness as an O/O only 2 weeks in uphill but hey will see
Very very few people manage to go O/O successfully. If you are having doubts it’s because your gut is telling you it’s a bad idea. Sure, some make it work, but face the facts: These major carriers aren’t advertising & pushing lease op & owner operator recruitment because they wanna help you become a millionaire, they do it because it makes them more money.
Probably the best owner op video on TH-cam, I myself am an owner op own authority who just run strictly Texas San Antonio is my home, running 53ft stepdeck with ramps, no tarps lol. I co-sign this message. Good luck fella owner ops. Peace!!
That’s why you must have a minimum of 60 to 80K , if not well over, dollars of cash from savings ON TOP of your current networking capital, ie: a decent, well maintained, not too used, tractor and trailer. Also you must have a minimum of at least two years of direct experience in the trucking industry as a truck driver. Anything less than that it would be a formula for a disaster. Keep in mind that real knowledge comes out with experience on the field, observation and time, all along with a strong desire to succeed on achieving a decent life worth to live. What do I mean when I talk about a “decent life” ? Well, a decent life worth of living is the one you don’t get into a crazy pattern of consumption, free of unnecessary goods, like so many people ends up expending a whooping mortgage of $4,000.00 monthly payments; and or having half a dozen children, two wives (an ex and your actual gal) , .. two-three brand new fancy cars, a dog, etc etc. In few words: don’t chew what you aren’t able to swallow. Live frugally, live a debt free life ! 😶
@@СтепанБандера-ы8у Yes, Indeed. That was somehow implicit in the itemized “knowledge” as a result of the inevitable experience accumulated over the years. ✌️
@Sean , I totally agree ☝️
Love your comment dude. ❤ all that you said its the main reason why truckers fail.. they spend money havent earn yet. First build the company, save money try always to pay cash then relax people do it the other way around
I'm a car hauler. I drive a company truck. I'm out here about 4 and 1/2 to 5 days a week and I stay at a hotel every night that I'm out. Things have been slow lately and with that being said I usually gross between $1700 and $2,000 per week.
I have no headaches and no expenses other than the food that I prepare at home to bring with me. Also, I make anywhere between $1 and $1.35 per mile.
Hmm... let me get my calculator out!
I feel yeah I gross out $8,000 to $12,000 a month and my payout every month is between $5,000 to. $8,000 lol
so whats your average net
This video should be required for all
lease , lease purchase , Operater ( wanna be ) ... BEFORE They can sign on the doted line ( it would save
Em more than money ) !!!!
I know the feeling bro. I had 3 break downs in 2 trips. All together about 5k in repairs Annnnd someone hit my truck and ran away I was down a week for body work
Sheesh
In my humble opinion (I am not a trucker nor ever have been behind the wheel of a truck) the root of the problem is the vision people have about it. When you think about being an owner operator you have to see it as a company, not as an employee who will get a payment each month or each two weeks. When you have a company, whether it is a big company or a store, obviously not everything you sell goes to your wallet. A company can sell u$d 1.000.000 in a month but in order to achieve that you have to buy the the manufacturing goods, calculate the manufacturing process costs, salaries of employess, etc; and from your revenues separate a percentage for future contigencies or unexpected breakdowns or losses in a month or term; a reservoir for a list events you all already know. The amount of sales a company makes deoesn't mean that goes to the owners bank account, same as the ammount of sales a coffee shop makes for selling coffee and food doesn't go to its owners bank account.
If someones doesn't visualize being O/O as having your own company, your own business, instead of thinking of a fixed amount of money in a paycheck monthly, then that person has a very big problem from the very begining, and reality can hit really hard.
P.S. Sorry for the possible incorrect accounting terms (or wrong exact translation that may end up in spanglish lol)
I don't understand why guys fluff up their numbers so much. My mind instantly goes to 25% of their number is their actual net pay check. Make 6k your take home net is 1.5k deposited into your personal account take out a few bonuses if things go well...
How do you not go bat shit crazy working 6 days a week? I stay local, to avoid the cabin fever. You guys out on the road for long periods of time are amazing or a little crazy.
Finally! A brother that’s telling it straight.
You actually caught my sympathy with this.
I know you’re not trying for that but I can relate.
Tell them, they better get dam good at wrenching too!
Thank you for your honesty Brian I am glad my husband is just a company driver tough times that you went through would have bankrupted us
I drove i40 through Albuquerque Amarillo Little Rock Memphis ill never forget that week. That winter storm stayed with me from Flagstaff all the way to Birmingham. Traffic stopped twice on i40 2 different times for 3 hours. I wish you guys could've seen the landing gear on my trailer that night when I got into Oklahoma.
I agree with alot of what you were saying. However your mathematical calculations are a bit skewed. You were merging potential and actual figures. If you miss a load that doesn't actually constitute an actual loss. You never had it to lose it. That would be considered a loss to potential income not a loss to actual income. A general rule of thumb and a good starting point for O/O is 30/40/30. You may need to tweak these percentages a bit considering different variables. But 30% of revenue to driver/ 40% of revenue to the truck and operating costs/ and 30% of revenue back into the business for taxes and other business expenses.
The importance of a maintenance fund should be at the top of every owners priority list.
Aye man point blank simple. If you want that big reward and get to your dream. It won’t be easy. You gona either push though it or give up. But remember. The harder it is. The more challenges you overcome. The sweeter the success!!! Good luck to all the entrepreneurs chasing their dreams! Remember your hard works isn’t only going to change your life but the ones around you! You go through the bs so they don’t have to! Keep pushing
“Revenue is Vanity, Profit is Sanity, and Cash is King”
I feel you, try the bar business in 2020... completely shut down for 174 days.
That’s brutal
I've thought many times about becoming an O/O, but then I think back to when I was a general contractor back in the 90's and that thought quickly goes away.
Today I am a company driver doing local work. I haul just liquefied gases, work five days a week and home everyday. I make almost 100k a year. In 2004 I got into liquid hazmat and never looked back.
@@Otis-and-Chloe I’m in Northwestern Oregon.
Love the Truth!! Must have a large reserve account. Ups and downs happen in every business. Owner/Operators take the hit for all costs and time lost. Many company drivers get paid while they wait for repairs they don't have to pay for because they earn less per mile, but it can be worth it when one takes the 'whole' story into account. Good vid, thanks!
Wow!! that just happen to me and I only been in this business for 6 month. I lost 10,000 in one week. I’m staying in the trucking business now! Thanks SLOWJOY TRUCKING
Follow the law. No radio. Keep your eyes one mile ahead to one mile behind and both sides. Also on your instruments. Your goal is no accidents, tickets, damage or injuries. - TAV 🇺🇸
Life has a plan you just have to figure out is how to keep up, because it is gone in such a short time..Love this video..Have a good day..😀👍☕️🍫🇺🇸😎
The spring/summer time is the time to spend money on maintenence. The fall and winter time will prove if your truck is ready for the long haul
I’ve watched a few dozen videos and researched O/O over the road trucking business. I’m glad I watched yours last and you said it like it is. I’m retired and thinking of buying a new rig and trailer outright after getting some experience working for a company. Any advice if getting into a new unit makes it easier avoiding downtime and your thoughts would be appreciated.
Hey man appreciate this video I'm definitely going to take this information into consideration keep on trucking my man I pray for your success
You can go months or years without major issues then blow an engine,transmission,or diffs within a few weeks and be in the hole just like that,ask me how I know.......
Two of the biggest financial problems that a lot of people encounter are living above own means and self employed individuals are lowering own rate into bankruptcy.
Alot of owner operators also tell me alot of people don't save money they see big amounts they spend
Very true
Good 👍🏾 talk Driver…I definitely needed this. I’m subscribed
I completely understand. I had a wreck and was out of work for 9 weeks with a $2,685 truck pmt. It hurt BAD
@Monk Farmer people always think we are rolling in cash but never see the downside of being a truck owner.