Good luck to you. I've been at it for a year, and there are 5 imperative things. 1) When you go up to Indiana, do it with the goal of running at least 1500 miles east/west (higher rates)... and finishing with a load back to the general area that you reside in. Rates to Texas will always be lower so you cannot make it going back and to to your home. 2) Make the back of your truck as comfortable to sleep in as your home. It is possible. It took me nearly a year to do, but there are multiple reasons why hotels aren't an option. At least for me. At this point, if I had the option of staying in a $100 hotel room or in the back of my truck for $100, I'll take my truck every time. 3) Get the largest fuel tank you can. You'll understand this one quick. 4) The more clutter you have in the cab of your truck with you, the faster you will begin to hate yourself and then the job. I'm referring to cooking devices, refrigerators, etc. Load up on protein shakes, Boost, nuts, etc.,.....high quality things that don't require prep. I watch lots of transporters videos and see all the crap that they have in the cab of their truck, and I dont know how they do it. I wouldn't last an hour, much less a day or days. 5) Get a rear bed toolbox to completely eliminate clutter in the cab. The last 4 are vital to peace of mind, the first is vital as to whether you'll make it or not.
@mtc0812 I'm retired, and I don't do it for income. I love to ride the roads and travel, see all the things that are out there that I probably wouldn't see otherwise. But, I'm not gonna do it just to be buying fuel. I live about 65 miles N. of Jax in S. Ga., so it's a 950 ride for me to go get a load. My last trip up, I made 1 trip to Golden, Co., 2 trips to Pa., and then a load coming back to Savannah. 3,000 paid miles, 3150 unpaid. Without backloads (and there 99.5% aren't any with any company), gotta keep the loaded/unloaded as close to 50/50 as possible to make it work.....in my mind anyway. Cleared around $3500 (pay-fuel), gone for 10.5 days. Honestly, that's as good as it ever really gets with single pull.
They prey on people like you. Not educated on what it costs to move 1 mile. I know what it just cost me to start my truck. Don’t be an employee that provides all the tooling
Thanks for taking the time putting all of this together. I’m from Albuquerque and have been driving semi trucks for 20 years now and thinking of going into the rv transport as a sort of retirement gig. Really looking forward to seeing your progress and best of luck to you.
Hey, thanks a lot for your kind words! It's awesome to hear about your two decades of experience behind the wheel. Transporting RVs for retirement seems like a perfect fit for you! I've been creating videos documenting my journey, and they're gaining a lot of traction. It's quite surprising! So, if the RV venture takes an unexpected turn, it seems like I might have a potential future as a TH-camr. Who would have thought! I appreciate your interest in keeping up with my progress. I'll definitely continue sharing videos to update you on how everything unfolds. Thanks, and I wish you the best out on the road!
I have 25 years commercial experience , 3.2 million miles. In 2012 that all came to an abrupt end. Anyway, I let my CDL go and I'm trying to settle into retirement, but I'm interested in what you're doing to supplement my retirement. I'm glad I found you and will be watching. One question I have is , is a dot medical card required to do this if you're a non CDL driver ? Thanks in advance for any answer. Be safe.
Thanks for the video! I’m also retired, working federal, and a little bored at my job. I’m ready to travel and be free. Make my own schedule and see the country. Looking forward to watching you go through this.
Hey, thanks for checking out my video! Can you believe I ended up becoming TH-cam famous after posting it? Crazy, right? Anyway, congrats on your retirement! There's nothing better than the freedom to set my own hours and squeeze in some travel. Keep an eye out for my upcoming videos, as I intend to capture and share my journey through the miles on the road.
Thank you, Matt for all of this information. It seems like anytime you have to pay (in one way or another) to get a job, it is not a good deal for the the employee. If you have to do so much mental gymnastics to figure out if it is a good deal or not, it is probably not a good deal. Too bad, because it could be a fun adventure if you made enough money out of the deal. I know some people do short haul van runs (driving items from one place to another). I wonder if that would be a better deal if there was a distribution center in Texas and if your truck could accommodate the job. Thanks again for an interesting video. Good luck in school!
You’re right. It does require some mental effort to figure out if it’s profitable. However, like you said, part of the compensation is the adventure, right?
Maybe contact or drive by the rv dealerships in San Antonio, develop relationships and find out what transport companies deliver to those dealerships closest to your home. Work the problem backwards. Good luck.
I did this for about three years back in the early 2000's. I agree with you nothing like a one ton dually for stability. Started with 95 2dr F-350 traded for a new 2 wheel drive 2003 4dr 7.3 F-350 with 3.70 rear end also built a platform in the back by removing the seat, built it about seat level but sometimes when I needed a nap I would sleep in the drivers seat with the engine running in the winter time for heat but the first time I woke up for a split second I thought i had left the road and was airborne. I solved this problem by always covering myself with a blanket. I put 360,000 miles on my 2003 changed the oil over 50 times, drove though almost every state killed a couple of deer and spent as much in repairs as I paid for my truck. I laminated paper signs taped them to the inside of my back windows and would lower my back windows when passing weight stations. You might say I was an outlaw hotshot trucker, oh the tales I tell could you. Good luck in the future. TT
Wow, your experiences as a hotshot trucker sound both adventurous and full of stories! It's fascinating to hear about your journey and the creative solution for those naps on the road. The memories of driving through almost every state, dealing with repairs, and encountering the challenges of the road must have left you with a wealth of tales to share. It sounds like you truly lived the hotshot trucker lifestyle to the fullest. Wishing you continued success and safe travels in whatever adventures lie ahead! Appreciate the comment!
I work as senior management for a trucking company. You’re right in that you should slow down. Speed is one of the main contributors to revenue loss in transportation. You should look for the “lowest speed that keeps you at the bottom of your highest gear.” If your rates differ (base or fuel surcharge etc) calculate the pay rate divided by miles + deadhead (The miles from where you drop to the next pick up)and that will give you what the mileage rate is. Take the highest mileage rate regardless of distance. Bonus points if it’s a short load so you get more loads per week.
Absolutely, speed matters, but my schedule is packed with more stops than a delivery truck! Jokes aside, finding that balance is crucial. I appreciate your comment!
Use your companies fuel discount, always bank on atleast 2 runs if possible before going home , no hotels sleep in the truck , grab a cooler and stop by a grocery store for food when you get up there to get a load. Just some things ive learned. You will learn what you need to do save money and will get in a groove before you know it
Thanks a ton for the tips! As a newbie on the road, insights like yours are priceless. I'm all in for fuel discounts and planning multiple runs for sure. Planning to stretch my time out there, but this time of year throws in a bunch of other commitments. Tis the season. I'll definitely consider sleeping in the truck to save some bucks, though I have to confess, the comfort of hotels is pretty tempting. Planning to stick to the truck setup as much as I can-unless it gets too chilly, then I might have to cave for a cozy hotel bed. Appreciate your wisdom!
Oh sooo glad you did this. My husband and I both have cdls and currently teaming. Have the truck he's also retired army have medical insurance just needed more information on this.
Good luck with your adventures. Tip get a separate tablet or phone for your logs and business only DOT loves to go through your personal phone when you hand it to them
Thanks a bunch for the heads up! I hadn't thought about that, but it totally makes sense. A separate tablet or phone for logs and business is a solid idea - gotta keep things streamlined. And you're spot on about the DOT; no one wants them nosing around personal stuff. I'm definitely taking your advice on board. It's one of those practical tips that can save a lot of hassle. It's cool to get all these great insights from everyone. Thanks for the comment!
What a great video. I'm retiring this year, and I have been thinking about doing the RV transport. Probably won't now as I would have to purchase a new truck and all the accessories. I appreciate the insight you give from the perspective of a new driver. Thank you, and best to you. Finally, has anyone ever said you look like Kiefer Sutherland? From different angles, you sure reminded me of him. Stay safe!
If you're thinking of relying solely on this for income, make sure to thoroughly research before leaving a job you've had for two decades. I don't want to discourage you because making money in this field is possible, but dedication and staying on the road for an extended period are crucial. Personally, I've managed to deposit over $1,000 per week into my bank account quite easily, even with infrequent and less-than-ideal loads offering low mileage. With strategic planning and the right timing, you could almost double that amount if you're willing to commit and keep accumulating those miles on the road. Best of luck with your decision, but it wouldn't hurt to reach out to recruiters and gather information firsthand.
First of all, Good luck.. Never break the law.. That being said.. I've been doing this since 1995 and the first thing I can suggest is to chunk the electronic log book and use paper. Electronic ones have time stamps that can't be erased. I use 3 logs at a time, just remember which one you're using each day. Also, I haven't turned in a log in 15 years. Just saying.. if the company you're with don't ask for them, don't volunteer them. Second, remove the signs from your vehicle except when you pickup and deliver. They just attract unwanted inspections. You don't need them or logs if you're driving for personal reasons. Third, Never accept the first offer on a load if you're away from your domicile or Elkhart.. Usually there's nobody else nearby and you can negotiate for better pay. Fourth, Stay away from truck stops and motels unless necessary. Surprise DOT, Inspections happen near where truck drivers frequent. Last, but not least.. Keep the door shut and keep the wheels rolling.. Remember, I don't play a driver on TV... I do it in real life..
Not submitting a log for 15 years-talk about a bold strategy! Stripping off vehicle signs when unnecessary is a smart move to steer clear of unwanted attention; it's actually the first thing I do upon reaching the dealership. Your advice about steering clear of truck stops and motels for unexpected inspections makes total sense. Your parting words ring true: keep that door shut and those wheels turning. Appreciate you sharing your wealth of experience and insights!
In the six years and only half a million miles of RV delivery I did, I had a lot of time to sit and think about how much money I was making. I figured it came to about $10/hour. Granted, I did take three to four months off every winter and hang out in Florida, where I had a cheap option sharing a house with a friend. I put aside about $4,000 every year for major maintenance and never had to dip far into it, thanks to my gentle driving technique… did all the regular maintenance myself… complete transmission fluid and filter change every 25,000 miles… oil change in a Walmart parking lot where I could easily dispose of the waste oil in their auto shop… installing a new fuel pump on an overpass in Nebraska as the sun set (I’d done so many fuel pump changes on that Dodge Cummins that I could pretty much do it by feel.) I calculated truck expenses at $.15/m empty and $.25/m loaded (2003-‘08). Cruised at 60-65 loaded and 65-70 empty for better fuel economy. I looked at it as spinning my wheels while turning my (paid for) truck into cash. Conclusion; you can’t make a living delivering singles and also replace the truck that your chewing when it’s dead. Ultimately I was tired of having sore shoulders ALL the time. I did enjoy waking up with my first thought being: “Where am I?” and my second thought being: “Which direction am I going?” (one season with Horizon and then 5 years with Hoosier. Other companies’ drivers warned me that the Hoosier dispatcher would hold good loads for his ‘favorite’ drivers and my immediate reaction was: “How do I get to be a favorite?” Answer: be safe, don’t cause dealers to call the company with complaints about you, and take a few shorts loads to help the guy out once in a while.)
Thanks for sharing your experience in RV delivery over the years! It sounds like you had a well-thought-out approach to managing expenses and maintenance. The dedication to self-maintenance and strategic driving for fuel efficiency is commendable. It's interesting to hear about the challenges and rewards of the job, and your perspective on making choices for a sustainable and enjoyable career. The insights on becoming a "favorite" driver by prioritizing safety and reliability are valuable takeaways. If you have any more stories or reflections, feel free to share! Thanks for the comment!
I was entertaining this line of work after I am done being an electrician but after reading many of posts below I will look elsewhere. You gotta' run your ass off, sleep in the truck, eat out of the truck, take a bath out of the truck, just to make a few bucks. The cost of the truck, cost of commercial insurance, escrow fees, DOT inspections, repairs, maintenance, deadheads, etc = way too much risk for too little reward. The only way this seems even somewhat worthwhile is if you are carrying loads back and forth the majority of the time.
my thoughts exactly. Too much expenses going out for the little amount coming in, being gone, running back home empty (wasting money), cramped sleeping (I'm 6'2 220 lbs), shitty food, lack of exercise, etc.. Not worth it.
I’ve owned several semis but have never transported campers. As far as heat I would get a vevor diesel heater they are great and safe and about 100 dollars. Getting home in your position. I would fly leave your truck at the airport. You would have more time to make money and more time with your family. Depending on flight prices it could make you money and it would save your truck. Good luck!
Trucking is all about logistics. For example, if you could reliably get a load from Indiana down to Texas that paid $2200 it still wouldn’t be worth it to drive back up there empty. You’d need to find something to backhaul up north. This would be possible if you had a trailer and did the multi haul. It would involve more work and more investment but that’s really the only way you’re going to do more than break even.
Absolutely, you've captured the essence of logistics perfectly! It goes beyond just the cost per mile; it's about skillfully coordinating a profitable journey across the map. While the temptation may be to take a lucrative $2200 load from Indiana to Texas, the real challenge lies in transforming that into a round trip that financially adds up. Unfortunately, such complementary return loads are seldom readily available, if almost nonexistent. Opting to invest in a trailer and delving into the realm of multi-hauls might initially seem like a more significant undertaking, but it's a strategic move that can yield substantial benefits over time. Undoubtedly, it requires more effort and upfront expenses, but it's the kind of investment that elevates your business from merely staying afloat to smoothly cruising in the lane of profitability. Appreciate the comment!
I was seriously looking into doing transport 13 years ago and did a lot of research. I was told I needed a CDL to deliver motorhomes. I found that a local school bus company would train to get CDL so I went to work for them driving trips for games and charter service. I never went to transport RV's I didnt think it would pan out. I get to pick what I want and still maintain my lawncare business and been driving bus for 13 seasons.
Red Roof in Elkhart will give you a rate of $53 and change if Classic is part of their deal. Nothing fancy but always clean and the staff is nice. O just quit doing transport in December. Had my own authority and a customer with 3 locations here in Texas. When I started I was making 60% profit with all expenses including averaging PM cost for the truck. Inflation completely flipped that around and was grateful if I cleared 40% profit and that no longer included PM cost. Also you can wear out a truck pretty quick. I could make 6 trips a month and averaged between 120 to 150K miles per year. Insurance cost doubled with no accidents or claims and of course fuel cost was the big killer.
my wife and i both have cdl's and we hired on with horizon to deliver rv's they wanted us to come to Indiana and pay them 500 dollars a piece to get started, Nope the deal is you pay us.
I haven't really considered driveaway much, but I do notice many of them passing me on the highway, heading out of Indiana. Some of them get those big trucks moving!
Thanks for Representing Kansas City Honteyyyy, that’s my home town and of course we are now very arrogant. I also love the videos seeing as I am trying to get into this business
Thanks for the video! I’m a CDL linehaul driver currently but low in seniority at my company. With the economy like it is currently, that’s translates to only going to work on the weekends. Been looking for side hustles to do during the week, currently it’s been Uber/Lyft. I already have a Ram 2500 and it wouldn’t be hard to outfit it for RV transporting. But after watching your video, I’m very skeptical. Will be watching the channel to see how it goes for you, looking forward to seeing more!
Iv looked into RV transport on the weekend, and I'm near Indiana in TN. But to make it at all profitable Id have to get a flatbed and carry at least two each weekend, leaving Friday to Elkhart In, and returning Sunday to home, so local east coast/Florida stuff. the hardest part of it is the insurance. I have a mostly paid off 2019 Ram 3500 DRW HO, so I can move anything under 34k. I also have my CDL, but even with that it is basically break even for the weekends.
I have to carry a $500,000 policy, which cost me around $100 a month. Most dealers don't allow deliveries on the weekend, so you would really have to plan it out to make it work for you. Maybe you could pickup Friday or Saturday, then deliver Monday morning. Thanks for the comment!
Check out tanker work '22 grossed 100k, '23 grossed 85k and this year I'm on track to gross 100k and I'm home every other day and weekends and easy ass job
@@RVEmcee Should be how you look at it. Run the truck till it’s paid off. Consider the ending value zero. The payment is just a cost of business. When you finally do sell it, anything you get for it will go in the plus column. Or use as a down payment for a new truck.
Absolutely, that's a solid plan you've got there! Treating the truck like any other business expense is just plain smart. And when it's time to part ways, whatever you make off it is a nice little bonus. Great move! By the way, your videos are seriously informative. I've binged on them for hours before diving into this venture. Thanks a bunch for sharing your wisdom-it's been a real game-changer for me!
Motels and restaurants will kill your profit. I stay at either truck stops or rest areas and occasionally I will stay at a Cracker Barrell. I found a small refrigerator that fits nicely in my passenger-side floorboard. I also carry enough food to keep me out for two full weeks. A small propane single-burner stove will warm up anything you want to eat. I fixed my bed with hinges so I can open either side to access everything underneath the bed (Clothing, food, tools, printer, etc). You will really need to stay out for at least a week or two at a time to be profitable. Deadheading back home after every load will end up costing you all your profit. You would probably be better off returning to Elkhart and getting another load. Over time, you will learn which direction to take loads to that will give you a better chance of getting a back-haul.
Thanks for dropping these nuggets of wisdom! Your approach is seriously smart, especially the Cracker Barrel idea-I never considered that but it sounds like a solid plan. The small fridge is definitely something I'm eyeing for the future. And that hinged bed setup for easy access underneath? Genius move! I'm even thinking about swapping out the backseat for a rooftop tent now. Your advice on deadheading is also spot-on; strategic routes make total sense to maximize profit. Really appreciate you taking the time to share your insights!
I mean, doing hotshot sounds cool if you can haul more that 1 trailer. I drive CDL rig, a lot of guys talk about going owner/op. but it sounds like much higher expenses. Id try hotshot, but i would buy used and get like a 40' trailer
I did it in the early 90s. It will wear your truck out before you can pay for it. If you want to make money, you won’t. There’s no backhauls. Good luck dude.
I did this same job out of Elkhart and worked for 4 months back in 2002, I was negative $4k. I kept hoping I was going to get better loads and better money, never happened for me, it did work out money wise for a few of my friends but most ended up like me. There are ways with much less wear and tear on yourself and equipment to make money, only the transport company makes money IMO.
Thanks for sharing your experience! It's always valuable to hear different perspectives. Sorry to hear it didn't work out as planned for you back then. I'll keep an eye on the loads and try to make the best out of my situation. Thanks for the comment!
First off let me say best of luck to you. You hit a lot of good points however you missed some as well. Food on the road is very expensive, and it's difficult to eat healthy. Try to keep your empty miles as close to 50% of your loaded miles as possible. If classic has any back haul loads, oh what they may call reloads, get to know the person in that department, and buy them a doughnut every once in a while😊 Been transporting for over six years now, and the sad thing is that at the end of a run, we have Less $$$ left in our pocket then we did back when I started. On the contrary, workers at the fast food joints now get twice as much per hour as they did bace in 20¹7. It sure doesn't add up. I put a little over one million miles on my Ram 3500 in just under six years Sold it as a farm truck to a friend of mine in Tennessee. Replaced it with a 2018 Ram 2500 with 210k miles for $19,000. Could no longer afford the $1,000 monthly payment. All the best to you!
I am just getting started myself in this business. Personally I never seen online Classic Transport. I am leasing on with Indiana Transport as both Horizon Transport and Wave Express were booked up. I have orientation next week as after 3 months of trying to get in with Wave, they called me today and said they are hiring more drivers now after an almost 4 month freeze. I live in Michigan so for me it should work out well. Best of luck to you and Ill be following you online to see how your journey goes.
I tried to get in with Horizon and Wave too, because I liked their idea of load boards instead of dispatchers. I also tried to get on with Indiana Transport, but they didn’t get back to me until after I had orientation booked with Classic. Good luck to you!
@@dixsOnTheMove so I leased on with IT. Rates with them are low right now. Personally im looking to switch with Wave. Ive had soo many issues afterhours with IT and just not pleased with them.
Congrats on the new gig. I just leased on with Indiana Transport beginning of November to. One thing I found is get the biggest aux fuel tank that will fit in your truck then buy fuel at the lowest place you can find. I am in NH so I go out and try to get loads to MI, KS or short ones then find one to get me close to home. So far I have found the longer hauls pay the best but I am kind of in your situation where I have another business so I am doing this a semi-retirement gig. Maybe sometime we can meet up and compare notes since we are both newbies. Safe travels out there.
Congrats on your new venture! I have a 50 gallon aux tank, but I wish it was bigger. I have a roll up tonneau cover, so I had to get one that fit under the bed rails. I am down to meet up in Goshen whenever you're there! We can make a collaboration video about a couple of rookie drivers! Thanks for the comment!
Does seem very costly, especially if you'd take a load to the west coast. Dead head back to Texas would just cause wear and tear and eat $$$. I haven't looked into it. But a friend said having a cheap little reliable tow car and delivering motor homes was the way to go. But I haven't done the math on that either.
Just so you know, a bunch of companies in Indiana are really in need of drivers for their drive-away division. I don't have the details on the pay, or requirements, but might be worth giving them a call. Thanks for the comment!
I’ll just keep the math real simple on hauling RV’s: fuel is going to run you about 30% of the trip pay, so a haul that pays $1000 will leave you with about $700 after the fuel bill assuming a 50% deadhead, which is what usually happens. It doesn’t pay enough to cover a new truck with a $1000-1200/mo payment if you expect to have any profit to show for it at the end of the month. But on the other hand with an older paid off truck you’ll be up to your ass in repair bills and downtime before you know it, and a truck that leaves you stranded and broken down under a load 1000 miles from home will send you out of business in short order. You really can’t afford to play around with the trucking game unless the revenue is there to support the business. And make no mistake this is the trucking game…they’ve just managed to soft sell it as paid tourism and a “fun” low commitment gig to lure retirees and military pensioners into essentially doing charity work for the RV industry by delivering them all over the place for cheap. Understand this before signing up.
One thing to think about is the time tonget repairs on the truck. I know someone with a 2022 3500 GMC that had a trailers issue (not RV) that took out his transmission they tell him it may take 8 months to get a transmission. And iffered him 8 grand to trade it As IS.
Thanks for the recommendation regarding TSD for purchasing fuel. Currently, I'm using the fuel card provided by my company, which comes with its own set of discounts. However, I'll certainly look into the TSD card for potential future considerations. Appreciate your input!
I’m headed back to Indiana on Saturday, so I’ll try and do a quick walk around. I’m not sure I’m qualified to do reviews, so I’ll just show my equipment
Buddy you already can see the answer to this question? is it worth it ? you know the answer, problem with this job is its fun as hell if you like to travel period therefore you rationalize shit you shouldn't, at least my head was arguing with my heart. Once you get a taste you don't wanna stop and that hole gets deeper ,And I ran only long runs west coast /BC Canada , Where the money was at or at least payed the most. All I can say is Good luck to ya have fun with it and be prepared for anything ,breakdowns, weather, anything and everything you will see it.
Thanks a bunch for the heads up! Sounds like you've had more twists and turns on those West Coast runs than a season finale. And props to you for surviving breakdowns, crazy weather, and all the unexpected chaos. It's like a real-life action movie, right? On a side note, I've got some military experience in my back pocket, so I'm no stranger to handling the unexpected. It's like the universe trained me for this, or maybe I just have a knack for finding trouble. Anyways, appreciate the good vibes and the reality check. Here's to hoping my truck and I come out on the other side of this adventure in one piece. Take it easy and stay safe out there!
I’m in San Antonio as well! My favorite part of the job is the freedom-I get to choose when and where I want to go. To make a good living, you need to drive a lot of miles and save money by finding good deals on fuel and cheap hotel rooms, or even sleeping in your truck. Good luck!
Depending on your expense.... Around August to November is the dead time... Manufacturers are starting production for the next year... The hardest part is trying to get back hauls to eat up some dead head to pay for fuel... Then you can only drive 11 hours a day and work for 14hrs.
Drive your clock out to a terminal/drop yard to be able to drive off duty without it counting on your logs. Notation on leaving a terminal/drop lot makes it legal to drive endless miles as long as you are not tired/fatigued.
I wonder what the Transport companies are making on each delivery. Someone in the comments said that they are making the same amount as me, the driver, but I really have no idea. Thanks for the comment!
So far, they've been pretty cool, especially since there aren't many deliveries happening. They keep me busy and make sure the truck stays loaded though. Thanks for the comment!
Have fun driving for a bed I took out my back seats and built a bed in the back, also I noticed some distracted driving when looking at your notebook….
You didn't mention the expenses at home. Wait til you have a major breakdown(turbo, fuel pump, injectors, transmission, rear end), you will be dead broke. I left the business 9 weeks ago when I blew the turbo, truck is still in the shop. 2+ months, nobody is gonna help you, not even the company you are leased to. There is no money in the bank, never will be. DONT DO IT, it's not worth it.
If a simple turbo took you out of the game then you weren’t running properly, saving properly, have too high home expenses or you are over extended. Expenses at home should never be mentioned. Those have no bearing on a general business model.
I appreciate you sharing your experience, and I'm sorry to hear about the challenges you've faced in the this business. It's crucial for aspiring drivers to be aware of the potential hardships and expenses involved, especially when it comes to major breakdowns. Your cautionary advice highlights the financial risks and the importance of being prepared for unexpected setbacks. I'm curious to know if there are specific steps or precautions you think someone entering this industry should take to better navigate these challenges. Your insights could be valuable for those considering this a career. Thanks for the comment!
Freedom... yes! #paidtotravel Keeping them informed just means regular comuication with yer traffic manager. Be careful at truckstops... truck drivers get touchy when RV's are in their spots. Red Roof in has a winter transporter rate. We gurlz are there now. Haters are gunna hate. My mentor has 18+ years in transport and stays in a motel EVERY night. Not me, I sleep in my truck, motels during my reset, ya gotta get out of the truck. Safe travels, driver. Welcome to the family. #rvtransportfamily
Thanks a bunch for the pro tips! Regular communication with the dispatchers-got it. And I'll definitely watch out for those touchy truck drivers at truckstops, nobody wants trouble with a trucker! Red Roof Inn's winter transporter rate is a game-changer, and it's cool that you and the gurlz are taking advantage. Your mentor's got the right idea with a motel every night. I mean, let's be real, the backseat of a truck isn't exactly the lap of luxury. I'm all about being civilized too. Plus, those Super 8 points? Score! The idea of a rooftop tent sounds pretty intriguing, though. More space, fresh air-sign me up for that adventure someday. Until then, cheers to comfy motel beds and racking up those points! Although haters gonna hate, I don't dismiss the critics. I take every comment to heart, and I'll persist until it no longer aligns with my journey. Perhaps I'm on a mission to prove them wrong 🤷♂️ Thanks for the warm welcome to the #rvtransportfamily! Here's to safe travels and rolling with the family spirit. We need to do a video collaboration someday!
My take away from your video is all the initial fees that Classic seems to throw at you. I lease onto a smallish company more towards Shipshe that didn’t have half of the fees that you had to pay. I leased on back in 2018 so they may be a little higher now but… I didn’t pay for signs, but if i lose one I will. Don’t pay for plates. Classic or any company pays $100-300, (don’t remember the fee) for their first set of plate and then each additional one is pennies for them. Pullout fees are reasonable most places I think. Didn’t pay for a binder with the company info that you’ll have to keep up. Escrow money was less for me, only half or $1000 but if I have an accident I’ll have to come up with another grand on the spot. And then, and this is for anyone, you’ll have to come up with the same amount to reestablish your escrow to continue driving. Make sure you get the absolute best mileage you can when empty. Sleep in a bed in the back seat of your truck. This isn’t an eat like a king job so don’t.
Thanks a bunch for spilling the beans on your trucking experience! Loved hearing about your smaller company hookup - sounds like they didn't throw as many fees at you as some of the other companies do. No signs? Plates covered by the company? That's the dream! Your tips on pullout fees and the lowdown on escrow are like insider info for the rookies - appreciate it. Noted: don't expect a Michelin-starred feast on the road. Keep those wheels turning and if you've got more transport wisdom, spill it!
You also have to way out the risks you are taking to make a limited amount of money. What I mean is what are the chances you're going to have a major breakdown out there somewhere that may leave you stranded for how many days? How about an accident be it your fault or not and who is responsible for the RV damage? How about you get sick and can't make that delivery on time? Bad weather? You get my point. If you're making good money you don't mind assuming some risk but for little money or No money it is really crazy to do that. The numbers here just do not add up and I'd bet you would be hard pressed to find anyone who is actually making good money doing it despite what they claim.
Totally get where you're coming from! I mean, rolling the dice with breakdowns, playing tag with accidents, catching the flu, and battling wild weather just for a tiny paycheck? It's like signing up for a not-so-fun rollercoaster. If someone says they're swimming in cash doing this, they've got a secret sauce or a magic wand. But hey, I'm not waving the white flag just yet. I'm planning to ride this wave into spring and see if I can crack the code to pocketing a bit of extra cash. Thanks for the comment!
Respectfully, coming from a truck driver not a rv hauler... i dont think this job is for you. Your goals seem to conflict to much to make this work. I think you'll do better to get a trailer and try hotshot runs around tx and surrounding states to keep you local and loaded. Youre not gonna make it if you keep swiping your card for rooms and spinning wheels with no load.
Thanks for the trucker wisdom! I hear your concerns, but I'm ready to tackle the roadblocks and keep this truck rolling, at least until spring hits, when the industry allegedly picks back up. I'll keep your advice in the glove compartment, but for now, I'm all in. Appreciate the input!
You need to get a good accountant to do you taxes. Write offs help. Per demes will help. You need to know how much it cost to run every mile loaded and empty down to the penny. Knowledge is everything in transportation.
Got it! 😄 It's like driving a truck is a serious business, but the accountant part? That's where we get to play with numbers and make the taxman work for us. Write-offs are like the secret weapons of financial freedom in this business. And hey, knowing the cost of every mile, loaded or not, is like having a GPS for your wallet. Keep on truckin' and counting those pennies!
I see your point, but I actually think RV transport has its own merits. It may not be about stepping over dollars but finding value in a niche market. Different strokes for different folks, right? Thanks for the comment!
I am a 1099 employee, so I have to pay my own taxes. I am pretty sure you can write everything off, so I probably won't owe much at the end of the year. Thanks for the comment!
The DOT wouldn't be cool with me cruising from Texas to Indiana, picking up a trailer, and hitting the road again. They're pretty strict about safety and avoiding exhaustion, and that kind of non-stop driving just doesn't cut it. It's all about making sure everyone's well-rested and ready for the road. Plus, besides the regulations, I wouldn't want to drive that long anyway. I can only drive a maximum of 11 hours in a day, and I'd be pretty tired after that. So, even if I'm not officially dispatched, I still gotta log my hours when I'm heading home or back to the yard. If you've got more questions or need more info on DOT stuff, just shoot 'em my way!
I know there are a lot of brokers out there that could help you with this. It would be hard for someone like myself to move it, only because I don't have the proper insurance. Thanks for the comment!
You’ll drive your butt off and make the equivalent of about 50K a year and within 18 months you will still have 4 to 5 years of payments left on a truck worth about 15 grand. lol. Have fun.
This only works remotely in boom times when you are young enough to do it and have an independent source of income like a military retirement that you earned at around age 40 or so. Obviously, where you live makes a huge difference in load time vs deadhead time as well as how much time you are willing to spend out on the road, basically living in the truck 24/7. However, it's that independent source of income where the freedom comes from, without that You will find yourself making no money eating poorly, getting no exercise and beating a high dollar truck into the ground over a fairly short time that you have probably borrowed money on. This is an extremely low margin business where your control is very limited. It is not a way to vicariously put yourself in Smokey and the Bandit.
I’ve been doing this almost 3 years and live in round rock Texas. You will eventually learn where to find cheap fuel. That will save you the most or allow you to make the most money within a week. I typically fill up before I leave. I have 109 gallon auxiliary tank in a 48 gallon main tank. The larger the auxiliary tank you have the quicker the ROI. I will top off again in Matthews, Missouri (cheap fuel). What you mentioned as far as the type of trips is how I run. I head up to Goshen pick up a 500 to 600 mile load east/west because it pays more then back to Goshen then grab a load of Texas. While on the first load, I’ll start looking for a load to Texas. I’m with Horizon Transport, which run a load board, which makes it really easy to look future loads while you are on a current load. Those Texans just have to do a little differently, but there is money to be made. I got back last week after a 10 day trip and cleared $3900. First with a short load, then a load to California. Good luck and safe travels.
Thanks for the feedback! I have a 50g aux tank, which worked well when I was just pulling my family camper on the occasional camping trip, but now I wish it was bigger. Maybe I’ll upgrade in the future to a bigger one.
No, but there's a mini poodle in the family who's excited to accompany me. I'll give it a shot and take her on the next trip to see how it turns out. She's only 7 pounds.
I ran the math on this endeavor and it didn't come close to a decent level of profit. Why couldn't you sleep in the rv, if you're careful not to soil anything?
They said we’re not allowed in them except to turn off lights or close windows. I thought it’d be cool to do a walkthrough on all of them and include it on these videos
![[LIVE] : ONE ลุมพินี 88 | คู่เอก "ป้อมเพชร vs อัสลามจอน"](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/1ZqTVVbMgbo/mqdefault.jpg)
Good luck to you. I've been at it for a year, and there are 5 imperative things. 1) When you go up to Indiana, do it with the goal of running at least 1500 miles east/west (higher rates)... and finishing with a load back to the general area that you reside in. Rates to Texas will always be lower so you cannot make it going back and to to your home. 2) Make the back of your truck as comfortable to sleep in as your home. It is possible. It took me nearly a year to do, but there are multiple reasons why hotels aren't an option. At least for me. At this point, if I had the option of staying in a $100 hotel room or in the back of my truck for $100, I'll take my truck every time. 3) Get the largest fuel tank you can. You'll understand this one quick. 4) The more clutter you have in the cab of your truck with you, the faster you will begin to hate yourself and then the job. I'm referring to cooking devices, refrigerators, etc. Load up on protein shakes, Boost, nuts, etc.,.....high quality things that don't require prep. I watch lots of transporters videos and see all the crap that they have in the cab of their truck, and I dont know how they do it. I wouldn't last an hour, much less a day or days. 5) Get a rear bed toolbox to completely eliminate clutter in the cab. The last 4 are vital to peace of mind, the first is vital as to whether you'll make it or not.
Thanks for the advice! I hope to be able to continue doing this, because I actually enjoyed it.
@mtc0812 I'm retired, and I don't do it for income. I love to ride the roads and travel, see all the things that are out there that I probably wouldn't see otherwise. But, I'm not gonna do it just to be buying fuel. I live about 65 miles N. of Jax in S. Ga., so it's a 950 ride for me to go get a load. My last trip up, I made 1 trip to Golden, Co., 2 trips to Pa., and then a load coming back to Savannah. 3,000 paid miles, 3150 unpaid. Without backloads (and there 99.5% aren't any with any company), gotta keep the loaded/unloaded as close to 50/50 as possible to make it work.....in my mind anyway. Cleared around $3500 (pay-fuel), gone for 10.5 days. Honestly, that's as good as it ever really gets with single pull.
I was going to say either bigger fuel tank or get an external do you can top off on the cheap diesel when you can.
@@joey6223I am sorry anything less then 23 percent deadhead is just stupid business.
They prey on people like you. Not educated on what it costs to move 1 mile. I know what it just cost me to start my truck. Don’t be an employee that provides all the tooling
Thanks for taking the time putting all of this together. I’m from Albuquerque and have been driving semi trucks for 20 years now and thinking of going into the rv transport as a sort of retirement gig.
Really looking forward to seeing your progress and best of luck to you.
Hey, thanks a lot for your kind words! It's awesome to hear about your two decades of experience behind the wheel. Transporting RVs for retirement seems like a perfect fit for you!
I've been creating videos documenting my journey, and they're gaining a lot of traction. It's quite surprising! So, if the RV venture takes an unexpected turn, it seems like I might have a potential future as a TH-camr. Who would have thought!
I appreciate your interest in keeping up with my progress. I'll definitely continue sharing videos to update you on how everything unfolds. Thanks, and I wish you the best out on the road!
I have 25 years commercial experience , 3.2 million miles. In 2012 that all came to an abrupt end. Anyway, I let my CDL go and I'm trying to settle into retirement, but I'm interested in what you're doing to supplement my retirement. I'm glad I found you and will be watching. One question I have is , is a dot medical card required to do this if you're a non CDL driver ? Thanks in advance for any answer. Be safe.
Thanks for the video! I’m also retired, working federal, and a little bored at my job. I’m ready to travel and be free. Make my own schedule and see the country. Looking forward to watching you go through this.
Hey, thanks for checking out my video! Can you believe I ended up becoming TH-cam famous after posting it? Crazy, right? Anyway, congrats on your retirement! There's nothing better than the freedom to set my own hours and squeeze in some travel. Keep an eye out for my upcoming videos, as I intend to capture and share my journey through the miles on the road.
Thank you, Matt for all of this information. It seems like anytime you have to pay (in one way or another) to get a job, it is not a good deal for the the employee. If you have to do so much mental gymnastics to figure out if it is a good deal or not, it is probably not a good deal. Too bad, because it could be a fun adventure if you made enough money out of the deal. I know some people do short haul van runs (driving items from one place to another). I wonder if that would be a better deal if there was a distribution center in Texas and if your truck could accommodate the job. Thanks again for an interesting video. Good luck in school!
You’re right. It does require some mental effort to figure out if it’s profitable. However, like you said, part of the compensation is the adventure, right?
Maybe contact or drive by the rv dealerships in San Antonio, develop relationships and find out what transport companies deliver to those dealerships closest to your home.
Work the problem backwards. Good luck.
I did this for about three years back in the early 2000's. I agree with you nothing like a one ton dually for stability. Started with 95 2dr F-350 traded for a new 2 wheel drive 2003 4dr 7.3 F-350 with 3.70 rear end also built a platform in the back by removing the seat, built it about seat level but sometimes when I needed a nap I would sleep in the drivers seat with the engine running in the winter time for heat but the first time I woke up for a split second I thought i had left the road and was airborne. I solved this problem by always covering myself with a blanket. I put 360,000 miles on my 2003 changed the oil over 50 times, drove though almost every state killed a couple of deer and spent as much in repairs as I paid for my truck. I laminated paper signs taped them to the inside of my back windows and would lower my back windows when passing weight stations. You might say I was an outlaw hotshot trucker, oh the tales I tell could you. Good luck in the future. TT
Wow, your experiences as a hotshot trucker sound both adventurous and full of stories! It's fascinating to hear about your journey and the creative solution for those naps on the road. The memories of driving through almost every state, dealing with repairs, and encountering the challenges of the road must have left you with a wealth of tales to share. It sounds like you truly lived the hotshot trucker lifestyle to the fullest. Wishing you continued success and safe travels in whatever adventures lie ahead! Appreciate the comment!
I work as senior management for a trucking company. You’re right in that you should slow down. Speed is one of the main contributors to revenue loss in transportation. You should look for the “lowest speed that keeps you at the bottom of your highest gear.” If your rates differ (base or fuel surcharge etc) calculate the pay rate divided by miles + deadhead (The miles from where you drop to the next pick up)and that will give you what the mileage rate is. Take the highest mileage rate regardless of distance. Bonus points if it’s a short load so you get more loads per week.
Absolutely, speed matters, but my schedule is packed with more stops than a delivery truck! Jokes aside, finding that balance is crucial. I appreciate your comment!
Use your companies fuel discount, always bank on atleast 2 runs if possible before going home , no hotels sleep in the truck , grab a cooler and stop by a grocery store for food when you get up there to get a load. Just some things ive learned. You will learn what you need to do save money and will get in a groove before you know it
Thanks a ton for the tips! As a newbie on the road, insights like yours are priceless. I'm all in for fuel discounts and planning multiple runs for sure. Planning to stretch my time out there, but this time of year throws in a bunch of other commitments. Tis the season. I'll definitely consider sleeping in the truck to save some bucks, though I have to confess, the comfort of hotels is pretty tempting. Planning to stick to the truck setup as much as I can-unless it gets too chilly, then I might have to cave for a cozy hotel bed. Appreciate your wisdom!
Oh sooo glad you did this. My husband and I both have cdls and currently teaming. Have the truck he's also retired army have medical insurance just needed more information on this.
I've met many that retire from the military and use gi bill to get private pilots license or helicopter.
Thanks for posting, very helpful for sure.
Good luck with your adventures. Tip get a separate tablet or phone for your logs and business only DOT loves to go through your personal phone when you hand it to them
Thanks a bunch for the heads up! I hadn't thought about that, but it totally makes sense. A separate tablet or phone for logs and business is a solid idea - gotta keep things streamlined. And you're spot on about the DOT; no one wants them nosing around personal stuff.
I'm definitely taking your advice on board. It's one of those practical tips that can save a lot of hassle. It's cool to get all these great insights from everyone. Thanks for the comment!
What a great video. I'm retiring this year, and I have been thinking about doing the RV transport. Probably won't now as I would have to purchase a new truck and all the accessories. I appreciate the insight you give from the perspective of a new driver. Thank you, and best to you. Finally, has anyone ever said you look like Kiefer Sutherland? From different angles, you sure reminded me of him. Stay safe!
Become a Chauffer.
Where you been. No more videos??
I’m a driver as well. I use planet fitness for my showers most are 24hrs mon-Thursday I pay 10.00 a month
Great video thanks for serving I am thinking about doing this with my new truck but hard to leave a job after 23 years have a great day be safe.
If you're thinking of relying solely on this for income, make sure to thoroughly research before leaving a job you've had for two decades. I don't want to discourage you because making money in this field is possible, but dedication and staying on the road for an extended period are crucial. Personally, I've managed to deposit over $1,000 per week into my bank account quite easily, even with infrequent and less-than-ideal loads offering low mileage. With strategic planning and the right timing, you could almost double that amount if you're willing to commit and keep accumulating those miles on the road. Best of luck with your decision, but it wouldn't hurt to reach out to recruiters and gather information firsthand.
Thank you.
First of all, Good luck..
Never break the law..
That being said..
I've been doing this since 1995 and the first thing I can suggest is to chunk the electronic log book and use paper. Electronic ones have time stamps that can't be erased. I use 3 logs at a time, just remember which one you're using each day. Also, I haven't turned in a log in 15 years. Just saying.. if the company you're with don't ask for them, don't volunteer them.
Second, remove the signs from your vehicle except when you pickup and deliver. They just attract unwanted inspections.
You don't need them or logs if you're driving for personal reasons.
Third, Never accept the first offer on a load if you're away from your domicile or Elkhart.. Usually there's nobody else nearby and you can negotiate for better pay.
Fourth, Stay away from truck stops and motels unless necessary. Surprise DOT, Inspections happen near where truck drivers frequent.
Last, but not least.. Keep the door shut and keep the wheels rolling..
Remember, I don't play a driver on TV... I do it in real life..
Not submitting a log for 15 years-talk about a bold strategy!
Stripping off vehicle signs when unnecessary is a smart move to steer clear of unwanted attention; it's actually the first thing I do upon reaching the dealership. Your advice about steering clear of truck stops and motels for unexpected inspections makes total sense. Your parting words ring true: keep that door shut and those wheels turning. Appreciate you sharing your wealth of experience and insights!
I think you have the right mindset. Thankyou for sharing your experience.
I appreciate that!
In the six years and only half a million miles of RV delivery I did, I had a lot of time to sit and think about how much money I was making. I figured it came to about $10/hour. Granted, I did take three to four months off every winter and hang out in Florida, where I had a cheap option sharing a house with a friend. I put aside about $4,000 every year for major maintenance and never had to dip far into it, thanks to my gentle driving technique… did all the regular maintenance myself… complete transmission fluid and filter change every 25,000 miles… oil change in a Walmart parking lot where I could easily dispose of the waste oil in their auto shop… installing a new fuel pump on an overpass in Nebraska as the sun set (I’d done so many fuel pump changes on that Dodge Cummins that I could pretty much do it by feel.) I calculated truck expenses at $.15/m empty and $.25/m loaded (2003-‘08). Cruised at 60-65 loaded and 65-70 empty for better fuel economy. I looked at it as spinning my wheels while turning my (paid for) truck into cash. Conclusion; you can’t make a living delivering singles and also replace the truck that your chewing when it’s dead. Ultimately I was tired of having sore shoulders ALL the time. I did enjoy waking up with my first thought being: “Where am I?” and my second thought being: “Which direction am I going?” (one season with Horizon and then 5 years with Hoosier. Other companies’ drivers warned me that the Hoosier dispatcher would hold good loads for his ‘favorite’ drivers and my immediate reaction was: “How do I get to be a favorite?” Answer: be safe, don’t cause dealers to call the company with complaints about you, and take a few shorts loads to help the guy out once in a while.)
Thanks for sharing your experience in RV delivery over the years! It sounds like you had a well-thought-out approach to managing expenses and maintenance. The dedication to self-maintenance and strategic driving for fuel efficiency is commendable. It's interesting to hear about the challenges and rewards of the job, and your perspective on making choices for a sustainable and enjoyable career. The insights on becoming a "favorite" driver by prioritizing safety and reliability are valuable takeaways. If you have any more stories or reflections, feel free to share! Thanks for the comment!
I was entertaining this line of work after I am done being an electrician but after reading many of posts below I will look elsewhere. You gotta' run your ass off, sleep in the truck, eat out of the truck, take a bath out of the truck, just to make a few bucks. The cost of the truck, cost of commercial insurance, escrow fees, DOT inspections, repairs, maintenance, deadheads, etc = way too much risk for too little reward. The only way this seems even somewhat worthwhile is if you are carrying loads back and forth the majority of the time.
my thoughts exactly. Too much expenses going out for the little amount coming in, being gone, running back home empty (wasting money), cramped sleeping (I'm 6'2 220 lbs), shitty food, lack of exercise, etc.. Not worth it.
I’ve owned several semis but have never transported campers. As far as heat I would get a vevor diesel heater they are great and safe and about 100 dollars. Getting home in your position. I would fly leave your truck at the airport. You would have more time to make money and more time with your family. Depending on flight prices it could make you money and it would save your truck. Good luck!
Trucking is all about logistics. For example, if you could reliably get a load from Indiana down to Texas that paid $2200 it still wouldn’t be worth it to drive back up there empty. You’d need to find something to backhaul up north. This would be possible if you had a trailer and did the multi haul. It would involve more work and more investment but that’s really the only way you’re going to do more than break even.
Absolutely, you've captured the essence of logistics perfectly! It goes beyond just the cost per mile; it's about skillfully coordinating a profitable journey across the map. While the temptation may be to take a lucrative $2200 load from Indiana to Texas, the real challenge lies in transforming that into a round trip that financially adds up. Unfortunately, such complementary return loads are seldom readily available, if almost nonexistent. Opting to invest in a trailer and delving into the realm of multi-hauls might initially seem like a more significant undertaking, but it's a strategic move that can yield substantial benefits over time. Undoubtedly, it requires more effort and upfront expenses, but it's the kind of investment that elevates your business from merely staying afloat to smoothly cruising in the lane of profitability. Appreciate the comment!
No such thing as a "back haul"!
I was seriously looking into doing transport 13 years ago and did a lot of research. I was told I needed a CDL to deliver motorhomes. I found that a local school bus company would train to get CDL so I went to work for them driving trips for games and charter service. I never went to transport RV's I didnt think it would pan out. I get to pick what I want and still maintain my lawncare business and been driving bus for 13 seasons.
Never really considered driving a bus. You’d have to get up really early in the morning for that job 😴
@@RVEmcee I don't do routes, just trips so check in is usually somewhere from 11 to-2 pm. Some late nights though. It's a good gig for me.
Red Roof in Elkhart will give you a rate of $53 and change if Classic is part of their deal. Nothing fancy but always clean and the staff is nice. O just quit doing transport in December. Had my own authority and a customer with 3 locations here in Texas. When I started I was making 60% profit with all expenses including averaging PM cost for the truck. Inflation completely flipped that around and was grateful if I cleared 40% profit and that no longer included PM cost. Also you can wear out a truck pretty quick. I could make 6 trips a month and averaged between 120 to 150K miles per year. Insurance cost doubled with no accidents or claims and of course fuel cost was the big killer.
my wife and i both have cdl's and we hired on with horizon to deliver rv's they wanted us to come to Indiana and pay them 500 dollars a piece to get started, Nope the deal is you pay us.
good info, this will help me out. Thank you, Sir
I do drive away for Q. It's really not bad. You can pull your car to dead head back. They also have pick up yards in the east, Texas, and LA.
I haven't really considered driveaway much, but I do notice many of them passing me on the highway, heading out of Indiana. Some of them get those big trucks moving!
Good luck. I've always been interested in this. Cheers from Ontario Canada
You're in!
Thanks for Representing Kansas City Honteyyyy, that’s my home town and of course we are now very arrogant. I also love the videos seeing as I am trying to get into this business
Thanks for the video! I’m a CDL linehaul driver currently but low in seniority at my company. With the economy like it is currently, that’s translates to only going to work on the weekends. Been looking for side hustles to do during the week, currently it’s been Uber/Lyft. I already have a Ram 2500 and it wouldn’t be hard to outfit it for RV transporting. But after watching your video, I’m very skeptical. Will be watching the channel to see how it goes for you, looking forward to seeing more!
Iv looked into RV transport on the weekend, and I'm near Indiana in TN. But to make it at all profitable Id have to get a flatbed and carry at least two each weekend, leaving Friday to Elkhart In, and returning Sunday to home, so local east coast/Florida stuff. the hardest part of it is the insurance. I have a mostly paid off 2019 Ram 3500 DRW HO, so I can move anything under 34k. I also have my CDL, but even with that it is basically break even for the weekends.
I have to carry a $500,000 policy, which cost me around $100 a month. Most dealers don't allow deliveries on the weekend, so you would really have to plan it out to make it work for you. Maybe you could pickup Friday or Saturday, then deliver Monday morning. Thanks for the comment!
Check out tanker work '22 grossed 100k, '23 grossed 85k and this year I'm on track to gross 100k and I'm home every other day and weekends and easy ass job
Good luck to you. Remember, you should not consider depreciation. The truck is not an asset, it is a consumable. There is no depreciation.
Good point. Never thought about it like that.
@@RVEmcee Should be how you look at it. Run the truck till it’s paid off. Consider the ending value zero. The payment is just a cost of business. When you finally do sell it, anything you get for it will go in the plus column. Or use as a down payment for a new truck.
Absolutely, that's a solid plan you've got there! Treating the truck like any other business expense is just plain smart. And when it's time to part ways, whatever you make off it is a nice little bonus. Great move!
By the way, your videos are seriously informative. I've binged on them for hours before diving into this venture. Thanks a bunch for sharing your wisdom-it's been a real game-changer for me!
Good video, appreciate you putting it all out there to see
Motels and restaurants will kill your profit. I stay at either truck stops or rest areas and occasionally I will stay at a Cracker Barrell. I found a small refrigerator that fits nicely in my passenger-side floorboard. I also carry enough food to keep me out for two full weeks. A small propane single-burner stove will warm up anything you want to eat. I fixed my bed with hinges so I can open either side to access everything underneath the bed (Clothing, food, tools, printer, etc). You will really need to stay out for at least a week or two at a time to be profitable. Deadheading back home after every load will end up costing you all your profit. You would probably be better off returning to Elkhart and getting another load. Over time, you will learn which direction to take loads to that will give you a better chance of getting a back-haul.
Thanks for dropping these nuggets of wisdom! Your approach is seriously smart, especially the Cracker Barrel idea-I never considered that but it sounds like a solid plan. The small fridge is definitely something I'm eyeing for the future.
And that hinged bed setup for easy access underneath? Genius move! I'm even thinking about swapping out the backseat for a rooftop tent now. Your advice on deadheading is also spot-on; strategic routes make total sense to maximize profit. Really appreciate you taking the time to share your insights!
I mean, doing hotshot sounds cool if you can haul more that 1 trailer. I drive CDL rig, a lot of guys talk about going owner/op. but it sounds like much higher expenses. Id try hotshot, but i would buy used and get like a 40' trailer
Wow! I was thinking about doing this. Now I'm not.
I did it in the early 90s. It will wear your truck out before you can pay for it. If you want to make money, you won’t. There’s no backhauls. Good luck dude.
For those that are haters, my question why are they still doing it. I know people that have been doing it for 12 plus years
I did this same job out of Elkhart and worked for 4 months back in 2002, I was negative $4k. I kept hoping I was going to get better loads and better money, never happened for me, it did work out money wise for a few of my friends but most ended up like me. There are ways with much less wear and tear on yourself and equipment to make money, only the transport company makes money IMO.
Thanks for sharing your experience! It's always valuable to hear different perspectives. Sorry to hear it didn't work out as planned for you back then. I'll keep an eye on the loads and try to make the best out of my situation. Thanks for the comment!
Have you thought about hauling trailers for big tex trailers out of Texas? Just a thought
U Need Sway bars on towables to keep the unit from fish tailing if u get going too fast
First off let me say best of luck to you. You hit a lot of good points however you missed some as well. Food on the road is very expensive, and it's difficult to eat healthy.
Try to keep your empty miles as close to 50% of your loaded miles as possible.
If classic has any back haul loads, oh what they may call reloads, get to know the person in that department, and buy them a doughnut every once in a while😊
Been transporting for over six years now, and the sad thing is that at the end of a run, we have Less $$$ left in our pocket then we did back when I started.
On the contrary, workers at the fast food joints now get twice as much per hour as they did bace in 20¹7. It sure doesn't add up.
I put a little over one million miles on my Ram 3500 in just under six years
Sold it as a farm truck to a friend of mine in Tennessee.
Replaced it with a 2018 Ram 2500 with 210k miles for $19,000. Could no longer afford the $1,000 monthly payment.
All the best to you!
Thanks for the feedback! I brought them some Bucees beef jerky and told them I’d keep it coming
With multihaul you can get backhauls.
I am just getting started myself in this business. Personally I never seen online Classic Transport. I am leasing on with Indiana Transport as both Horizon Transport and Wave Express were booked up. I have orientation next week as after 3 months of trying to get in with Wave, they called me today and said they are hiring more drivers now after an almost 4 month freeze. I live in Michigan so for me it should work out well. Best of luck to you and Ill be following you online to see how your journey goes.
I tried to get in with Horizon and Wave too, because I liked their idea of load boards instead of dispatchers. I also tried to get on with Indiana Transport, but they didn’t get back to me until after I had orientation booked with Classic. Good luck to you!
How did it go for you ? I just started applying at some of these RV transport companies.
@@dixsOnTheMove it went well! I really enjoy the freedom, but you need to be careful with your expenses
@@dixsOnTheMove so I leased on with IT. Rates with them are low right now. Personally im looking to switch with Wave. Ive had soo many issues afterhours with IT and just not pleased with them.
Thank you for sharing the adventure! Best luck to you!
Check out the latest installment. I actually made a little money! Thanks for your comment!
Dexter MO is where I grew up. I would be doing paper logs and would be doing it different and cheaper but good luck to you! FYI hotels will kill you
Hotels sure are a lot more comfy than the backseat of a truck. Thanks for the comment!
Most of the transport companies require an ELD (motive).
Can always look
For something to haul back home..or from home to somewhere on the way to Goshen..so your not dead heading.
Congrats on the new gig. I just leased on with Indiana Transport beginning of November to. One thing I found is get the biggest aux fuel tank that will fit in your truck then buy fuel at the lowest place you can find. I am in NH so I go out and try to get loads to MI, KS or short ones then find one to get me close to home. So far I have found the longer hauls pay the best but I am kind of in your situation where I have another business so I am doing this a semi-retirement gig. Maybe sometime we can meet up and compare notes since we are both newbies. Safe travels out there.
Congrats on your new venture! I have a 50 gallon aux tank, but I wish it was bigger. I have a roll up tonneau cover, so I had to get one that fit under the bed rails. I am down to meet up in Goshen whenever you're there! We can make a collaboration video about a couple of rookie drivers! Thanks for the comment!
Does seem very costly, especially if you'd take a load to the west coast. Dead head back to Texas would just cause wear and tear and eat $$$. I haven't looked into it. But a friend said having a cheap little reliable tow car and delivering motor homes was the way to go. But I haven't done the math on that either.
Just so you know, a bunch of companies in Indiana are really in need of drivers for their drive-away division. I don't have the details on the pay, or requirements, but might be worth giving them a call. Thanks for the comment!
I’ll just keep the math real simple on hauling RV’s: fuel is going to run you about 30% of the trip pay, so a haul that pays $1000 will leave you with about $700 after the fuel bill assuming a 50% deadhead, which is what usually happens. It doesn’t pay enough to cover a new truck with a $1000-1200/mo payment if you expect to have any profit to show for it at the end of the month. But on the other hand with an older paid off truck you’ll be up to your ass in repair bills and downtime before you know it, and a truck that leaves you stranded and broken down under a load 1000 miles from home will send you out of business in short order. You really can’t afford to play around with the trucking game unless the revenue is there to support the business. And make no mistake this is the trucking game…they’ve just managed to soft sell it as paid tourism and a “fun” low commitment gig to lure retirees and military pensioners into essentially doing charity work for the RV industry by delivering them all over the place for cheap. Understand this before signing up.
One thing to think about is the time tonget repairs on the truck. I know someone with a 2022 3500 GMC that had a trailers issue (not RV) that took out his transmission they tell him it may take 8 months to get a transmission. And iffered him 8 grand to trade it As IS.
You’re right. You never know what will happen
Hey Brother, Not sure how you get fuel but, try TSD trucking and their Open Roads application for purchasing Fuel.
Thanks for the recommendation regarding TSD for purchasing fuel. Currently, I'm using the fuel card provided by my company, which comes with its own set of discounts. However, I'll certainly look into the TSD card for potential future considerations. Appreciate your input!
I would love it if you could tell us who you work for and show us what your equipment is
I’m headed back to Indiana on Saturday, so I’ll try and do a quick walk around. I’m not sure I’m qualified to do reviews, so I’ll just show my equipment
I’d keep it tall if you can storage is key. Anyway, good luck man.
Maybe you could hire out privately to transport or maybe an escort gig for oversized loads. Love this video, hope you can keep going. Be safe.
Keep on trucking buddy I got confidence you'll get it down
It's actually kind of fun! I enjoyed being on the road. Thanks for your comment!
hi Matt and thank you for the information, I would like to talk to you about this if your still working in the industry.
Buddy you already can see the answer to this question? is it worth it ? you know the answer, problem with this job is its fun as hell if you like to travel period therefore you rationalize shit you shouldn't, at least my head was arguing with my heart. Once you get a taste you don't wanna stop and that hole gets deeper ,And I ran only long runs west coast /BC Canada , Where the money was at or at least payed the most. All I can say is Good luck to ya have fun with it and be prepared for anything ,breakdowns, weather, anything and everything you will see it.
Thanks a bunch for the heads up! Sounds like you've had more twists and turns on those West Coast runs than a season finale.
And props to you for surviving breakdowns, crazy weather, and all the unexpected chaos. It's like a real-life action movie, right?
On a side note, I've got some military experience in my back pocket, so I'm no stranger to handling the unexpected. It's like the universe trained me for this, or maybe I just have a knack for finding trouble.
Anyways, appreciate the good vibes and the reality check. Here's to hoping my truck and I come out on the other side of this adventure in one piece. Take it easy and stay safe out there!
Classic I liked, except they pay less than everyone. They also don't have a load board. But they are a good company to work for
Their staff is great! I really like all the people. I do wish they used a load board though. I feel like I would like that better.
im from sa,tx and a vet im seriously considering doing this
I’m in San Antonio as well! My favorite part of the job is the freedom-I get to choose when and where I want to go. To make a good living, you need to drive a lot of miles and save money by finding good deals on fuel and cheap hotel rooms, or even sleeping in your truck. Good luck!
Depending on your expense.... Around August to November is the dead time... Manufacturers are starting production for the next year... The hardest part is trying to get back hauls to eat up some dead head to pay for fuel... Then you can only drive 11 hours a day and work for 14hrs.
I don’t head to yard until I get something. I sit at house. Or reset on way back. Slow time of yr. Be smart about it. Save and ask questions
If you are on the return trip do you have to follow the log book?
Get some Healthy Choice meals and nuke at truck stop i did it with classic and slid over to star fleet was a good move
I hope you have a CDL
Keifer Sutherland? What happened to all the money you made from 24? Sorry, I had to. Thanks for the video, thinking about doing this too.
Drive your clock out to a terminal/drop yard to be able to drive off duty without it counting on your logs. Notation on leaving a terminal/drop lot makes it legal to drive endless miles as long as you are not tired/fatigued.
They should pay you guys more. It is the Customer that pays the Transportation Costs at Purchase.
I wonder what the Transport companies are making on each delivery. Someone in the comments said that they are making the same amount as me, the driver, but I really have no idea. Thanks for the comment!
I recently hauled rv’s for Classic Transport if you have any questions.
So far, they've been pretty cool, especially since there aren't many deliveries happening. They keep me busy and make sure the truck stays loaded though. Thanks for the comment!
What is your average MPG with a trailer and without?
Thanks for the videos.
Maybe they would have from San Antonio, to back to Lockhart
No $120.00 A Night to $180.00 unless it’s Motel 6 or Supper 8 then might be lower. Good Luck.
Is the Trk A DayCab R-A Sleeper Trk.
Jan. 2-2024 Here.
yep. not doing RV hauling. thanks for the info
It's cool to check out the roads from the driver's seat-it's actually pretty fun.
Have fun driving for a bed I took out my back seats and built a bed in the back, also I noticed some distracted driving when looking at your notebook….
Can you run this with a partner snd just keep doing them back to back or would it only make sense to each have lur own truck?
First thing you need is auxiliary tank
You get around Joplin,Mo diesel is $3.59 a gallon
Good looking out. 👊
You didn't mention the expenses at home. Wait til you have a major breakdown(turbo, fuel pump, injectors, transmission, rear end), you will be dead broke. I left the business 9 weeks ago when I blew the turbo, truck is still in the shop. 2+ months, nobody is gonna help you, not even the company you are leased to. There is no money in the bank, never will be. DONT DO IT, it's not worth it.
If a simple turbo took you out of the game then you weren’t running properly, saving properly, have too high home expenses or you are over extended. Expenses at home should never be mentioned. Those have no bearing on a general business model.
I appreciate you sharing your experience, and I'm sorry to hear about the challenges you've faced in the this business. It's crucial for aspiring drivers to be aware of the potential hardships and expenses involved, especially when it comes to major breakdowns. Your cautionary advice highlights the financial risks and the importance of being prepared for unexpected setbacks.
I'm curious to know if there are specific steps or precautions you think someone entering this industry should take to better navigate these challenges. Your insights could be valuable for those considering this a career. Thanks for the comment!
Freedom... yes! #paidtotravel Keeping them informed just means regular comuication with yer traffic manager. Be careful at truckstops... truck drivers get touchy when RV's are in their spots. Red Roof in has a winter transporter rate. We gurlz are there now. Haters are gunna hate. My mentor has 18+ years in transport and stays in a motel EVERY night. Not me, I sleep in my truck, motels during my reset, ya gotta get out of the truck. Safe travels, driver. Welcome to the family. #rvtransportfamily
Thanks a bunch for the pro tips! Regular communication with the dispatchers-got it. And I'll definitely watch out for those touchy truck drivers at truckstops, nobody wants trouble with a trucker!
Red Roof Inn's winter transporter rate is a game-changer, and it's cool that you and the gurlz are taking advantage. Your mentor's got the right idea with a motel every night. I mean, let's be real, the backseat of a truck isn't exactly the lap of luxury. I'm all about being civilized too. Plus, those Super 8 points? Score! The idea of a rooftop tent sounds pretty intriguing, though. More space, fresh air-sign me up for that adventure someday. Until then, cheers to comfy motel beds and racking up those points!
Although haters gonna hate, I don't dismiss the critics. I take every comment to heart, and I'll persist until it no longer aligns with my journey. Perhaps I'm on a mission to prove them wrong 🤷♂️
Thanks for the warm welcome to the #rvtransportfamily! Here's to safe travels and rolling with the family spirit. We need to do a video collaboration someday!
@@RVEmcee We will end up meeting somewhere. 😎
My take away from your video is all the initial fees that Classic seems to throw at you. I lease onto a smallish company more towards Shipshe that didn’t have half of the fees that you had to pay. I leased on back in 2018 so they may be a little higher now but…
I didn’t pay for signs, but if i lose one I will. Don’t pay for plates. Classic or any company pays $100-300, (don’t remember the fee) for their first set of plate and then each additional one is pennies for them.
Pullout fees are reasonable most places I think.
Didn’t pay for a binder with the company info that you’ll have to keep up.
Escrow money was less for me, only half or $1000 but if I have an accident I’ll have to come up with another grand on the spot. And then, and this is for anyone, you’ll have to come up with the same amount to reestablish your escrow to continue driving.
Make sure you get the absolute best mileage you can when empty.
Sleep in a bed in the back seat of your truck.
This isn’t an eat like a king job so don’t.
Oh, did they charge for orientation?
Thanks a bunch for spilling the beans on your trucking experience! Loved hearing about your smaller company hookup - sounds like they didn't throw as many fees at you as some of the other companies do. No signs? Plates covered by the company? That's the dream! Your tips on pullout fees and the lowdown on escrow are like insider info for the rookies - appreciate it.
Noted: don't expect a Michelin-starred feast on the road. Keep those wheels turning and if you've got more transport wisdom, spill it!
Nope, that one was on them 😉
What year is your truck I’m looking to get into doing this as well and who are u going with
The advantage would be to live in Elkhart.
1’s Time up then do U-R pretrip inspection must be 15.minutes
You also have to way out the risks you are taking to make a limited amount of money. What I mean is what are the chances you're going to have a major breakdown out there somewhere that may leave you stranded for how many days? How about an accident be it your fault or not and who is responsible for the RV damage? How about you get sick and can't make that delivery on time? Bad weather? You get my point. If you're making good money you don't mind assuming some risk but for little money or No money it is really crazy to do that. The numbers here just do not add up and I'd bet you would be hard pressed to find anyone who is actually making good money doing it despite what they claim.
Totally get where you're coming from! I mean, rolling the dice with breakdowns, playing tag with accidents, catching the flu, and battling wild weather just for a tiny paycheck? It's like signing up for a not-so-fun rollercoaster. If someone says they're swimming in cash doing this, they've got a secret sauce or a magic wand. But hey, I'm not waving the white flag just yet. I'm planning to ride this wave into spring and see if I can crack the code to pocketing a bit of extra cash. Thanks for the comment!
Respectfully, coming from a truck driver not a rv hauler... i dont think this job is for you. Your goals seem to conflict to much to make this work. I think you'll do better to get a trailer and try hotshot runs around tx and surrounding states to keep you local and loaded. Youre not gonna make it if you keep swiping your card for rooms and spinning wheels with no load.
Thanks for the trucker wisdom! I hear your concerns, but I'm ready to tackle the roadblocks and keep this truck rolling, at least until spring hits, when the industry allegedly picks back up. I'll keep your advice in the glove compartment, but for now, I'm all in. Appreciate the input!
That’s like If U-R owner operator.
You need to get a good accountant to do you taxes. Write offs help. Per demes will help. You need to know how much it cost to run every mile loaded and empty down to the penny. Knowledge is everything in transportation.
Got it! 😄 It's like driving a truck is a serious business, but the accountant part? That's where we get to play with numbers and make the taxman work for us. Write-offs are like the secret weapons of financial freedom in this business. And hey, knowing the cost of every mile, loaded or not, is like having a GPS for your wallet. Keep on truckin' and counting those pennies!
Unless you move to Elkcart, there is no way to make money doing this. And even then, its not much as you are deadheading half of the miles.
We have been looking at Zillow to see if there is anything available. Thanks for your comment!
RV Transport. Stepping over dollars to pick up pennies!
I see your point, but I actually think RV transport has its own merits. It may not be about stepping over dollars but finding value in a niche market. Different strokes for different folks, right? Thanks for the comment!
I live in San Antonio too. Are you doing it with class C ? Can you make money in this ?
You can do it with a class C. There’s money to be made, you just have to pick and choose the right loads for you
On a side note, what are you wanting to study when you back to school?
I’m going to get my CDL, then I want to finish my MBA. Thanks for asking!
All those charges to do work for THEM. Sounds like a no go to me.
What about self employment taxes you'll have to pay on the income? Can you deduct the costs of the trip from this?
I am a 1099 employee, so I have to pay my own taxes. I am pretty sure you can write everything off, so I probably won't owe much at the end of the year. Thanks for the comment!
Are you under DOT regulations when you are NOT on a dispatched load and the magnetic signs are off the truck?
The DOT wouldn't be cool with me cruising from Texas to Indiana, picking up a trailer, and hitting the road again. They're pretty strict about safety and avoiding exhaustion, and that kind of non-stop driving just doesn't cut it. It's all about making sure everyone's well-rested and ready for the road. Plus, besides the regulations, I wouldn't want to drive that long anyway. I can only drive a maximum of 11 hours in a day, and I'd be pretty tired after that. So, even if I'm not officially dispatched, I still gotta log my hours when I'm heading home or back to the yard. If you've got more questions or need more info on DOT stuff, just shoot 'em my way!
Making Mullets Fashionable Again.
That’s *BOLD* Brother!!!.
🦅 🇺🇸
I’m looking to move a 37’ fifth wheel from Phoenix AZ to Picayune MS. Any takers?
I know there are a lot of brokers out there that could help you with this. It would be hard for someone like myself to move it, only because I don't have the proper insurance. Thanks for the comment!
You’ll drive your butt off and make the equivalent of about 50K a year and within 18 months you will still have 4 to 5 years of payments left on a truck worth about 15 grand. lol. Have fun.
Check out @travelinTim. He said you cant count your truck as an expense, because you have to have it to complete the job. Thanks for the comment!
This only works remotely in boom times when you are young enough to do it and have an independent source of income like a military retirement that you earned at around age 40 or so. Obviously, where you live makes a huge difference in load time vs deadhead time as well as how much time you are willing to spend out on the road, basically living in the truck 24/7.
However, it's that independent source of income where the freedom comes from, without that You will find yourself making no money eating poorly, getting no exercise and beating a high dollar truck into the ground over a fairly short time that you have probably borrowed money on.
This is an extremely low margin business where your control is very limited. It is not a way to vicariously put yourself in Smokey and the Bandit.
I’ve been doing this almost 3 years and live in round rock Texas. You will eventually learn where to find cheap fuel. That will save you the most or allow you to make the most money within a week. I typically fill up before I leave. I have 109 gallon auxiliary tank in a 48 gallon main tank. The larger the auxiliary tank you have the quicker the ROI. I will top off again in Matthews, Missouri (cheap fuel). What you mentioned as far as the type of trips is how I run. I head up to Goshen pick up a 500 to 600 mile load east/west because it pays more then back to Goshen then grab a load of Texas. While on the first load, I’ll start looking for a load to Texas. I’m with Horizon Transport, which run a load board, which makes it really easy to look future loads while you are on a current load. Those Texans just have to do a little differently, but there is money to be made. I got back last week after a 10 day trip and cleared $3900. First with a short load, then a load to California. Good luck and safe travels.
Thanks for the feedback! I have a 50g aux tank, which worked well when I was just pulling my family camper on the occasional camping trip, but now I wish it was bigger. Maybe I’ll upgrade in the future to a bigger one.
Our cat is 20 lb he's not overweight do you travel with a cat
No, but there's a mini poodle in the family who's excited to accompany me. I'll give it a shot and take her on the next trip to see how it turns out. She's only 7 pounds.
I ran the math on this endeavor and it didn't come close to a decent level of profit. Why couldn't you sleep in the rv, if you're careful not to soil anything?
They said we’re not allowed in them except to turn off lights or close windows. I thought it’d be cool to do a walkthrough on all of them and include it on these videos
U we’re Right not enough $$$
I hope you have someone to talk too on those long runs because you are putting me to sleep.
🥱