1. If I am a Canadian Driver in the Toronto Ontario area and my partner is an American Driver. If we pick up a load in Kitchener, Ontario, and deliver to New York, could we then go to Ohio and pick up another load and return it to Canada? - Top
Yes. Assuming that you are driving or leased to a Canadian carrier. The biggest issue is where the carrier is domiciled. What you couldn't do based on your scenerio, is pick up a load in New York, and take it to Ohio. - Updated: October 28, 2005
2. Is it possible to become an expedited driver as a recent truck driving school graduate? - Top
Yes. No experience is required at some carriers if you are persuing a straight truck or van. Tractor trailers usually require six months recent experience, but some have made exceptions. I would call the companies you are interested in, and see how you qualify. - Updated: October 28, 2005
3. Can you use a rental straight truck or cargo van? - Top
It is possible, but would be difficult. Primarily because the largest percentage of carriers use Qual-coms or satalites. Additionally, some require specific markings on their vehicles. I would check with each carrier you are interested in, and see what they say. - Updated: October 28, 2005
4. What is the average fuel mileage for the various types of expedite vehicles? - Top
For a van it would be 15mpg to 18mpg For a Sprinter it would be 20mpg to 24mpg For a Straight truck, 8mpg to 11mpg And for a tractor, 5mpg to 8mpg - Updated: October 28, 2005
5. What is the ideal sized box for a straight truck? What factors should be looked at to decide this? - Top
It generally depends on the carrier you choose, and how it will be utilized. Bigger is usually better, as it provides you with more opportunities. - Updated: October 28, 2005
6. How large a vehicle (GVWR) can I operate before I must comply with HOS regulations? - Top
In general, it would be a vehicle under 26,000 lbs. - Updated: October 28, 2005
7. I have a Class A CDL and drove for a major company for 15 years. Because of medical reasons, I can not pass a DOT physical, but I am still able to drive. Can I get a job with out a cdl? - Top
It will be difficult because you are trying to drive a commercial veicle, which requires commercial insurance. Because of that, you would likely be required to pass a DOT physical and drug screen. - Updated: October 28, 2005
8. Do the small cargo vans have to enter scales like the big rigs? - Top
It depends on the individual state. Some states like Michigan are wieghing all commercial vehicles. - Updated: October 28, 2005
9. Does the owner operator have the say so over the distance of deliveries and home time? - Top
As a independent contractor, the answer is yes. - Updated: October 28, 2005
10. I will be obtaining my CDL B license on my own. I would like to interview for a job with some knowledge. How do I learn about what logs to keep, how to document them, about taxes and any permits that I would need. What are the requirements to stop at a scale or not or any other important info along these lines. - Top
Alot of information can be obtained right here on EO. Searching the archives will provide you with a wealth of information. With regards to your other questions, most of them will be covered by the carrier's orientation program. - Updated: October 28, 2005
11. Is there any freight out of Texas? - Top
Yes. All of the larger carriers pickup and deliver throughout the state. - Updated: October 28, 2005
12. I would like to start driving a van as a sub-contractor for another O/O. Where do I start looking and how? I'm in the Toledo, OH area. - Top
I would check with the companies that may be putting on vans and have a list of existing owners looking for drivers. A review through the EO classifieds will also provide a list of potential owners looking for drivers. - Updated: October 28, 2005
13. I have family out of Detroit in the expediting business and we are interested in becoming truck owners but we live in Oregon. Can we own a truck, and run our end of the buisness by phone from Oregon but have a driver living in Detroit. - Top
It is possible, but it would have its own set of challenges. Additionally, family and business sometimes don't mix. The deck would be stacked against you. - Updated: October 28, 2005
14. Where can I find loads for backhauls from various states? - Top
Doing a internet search will bring up numerous sites. Some are free, and some require a subscription. Also, some truckstops have a load board right in them. - Updated: October 28, 2005
15. If I want to employ a eam driver, what must I do ? - Top
The first step is to identify whether this person is going to be a employee, or a independant contractor. Most in expediting elect to go the independant contractor route. The rest of it is having this individual qualified through your carrier, followed by a written contract that you both feel comfortable with. - Updated: October 28, 2005
16. Can I do this for extra income only on the weekends and holidays? - Top
Not really. You are looking for something local. Expedited frieght generally goes one way without the guarantee of a return trip. - Updated: October 28, 2005
17. I would like to start my own expedite company not as a driver but as a business. Any suggestions on how to start up, any resources you can recommend? - Top
It is a very tough business to start unless you have access to a fair amount of capital. Some resources you can check out are, www.tbabz.com, www.OOIDA.com or right here on EO. There will be a major difference in whether you just want to own trucks and lease them to a carrier, verses owning the whole company and its operations. - Updated: October 28, 2005
18. Are there alot of dedicated runs to be had and be home everyday with expedited runs? - Top
Very few and far between, but not unheard of either. A dedicated route really isn't expediting. I believe you should be looking for something in a local capacity. - Updated: October 28, 2005
19. I've been driving my van for a company "under the table" for sometime now. I would now like to strike out on my own and work for myself, legally. Where do I get the information to do this? I live in MI. What registrations do I need and do I have to have any special certifications or Insurance to drive a van in this capacity? My employer won't give me this info. - Top
Your list of items is covered in the EO archives. You would need commercial and load insurance. The types would depend on what you would be mostly hauling. You likely would also need your own authority which can be set up yourself, or going to OOIDA for the basic information. - Updated: October 28, 2005
20. I am considering getting into the expediting business with a cargo van. I am from Ohio. Does this require a CDL? - Top
In most cases it does, but I would check for verification with the carrier of your choice - Updated: October 28, 2005
21. We are currently considering expedited work. We have been looking at a 2004 1 ton Chevrolet Cargo Van 3500 Extended with a 6.0 liter gas engine. What kind of gas mileage may we expect to get with this vehicle? - Top
According to the manufacturer, you should be around 15 to 18 mpg. - Updated: October 28, 2005
22. CAN YOU HELP ME CONTACT OR FIND FREIGHT EXPEDITOR COMPANIES IN NORFOLK VA AND THE RICHMOND VA AREA. - Top
There are numerous ones based in the Carolinas. Nations Express and All-State are two of them. Most of the carriers operate in that region as well. Each carriers contact information is available on the EO homepage. - Updated: October 28, 2005
23. What is the classification of the "C" unit and the "D" unit? - Top
The original wieght and dimensions were formulated by Roberts Express. Today, you would have to contact each carrier as to vehicle size classifications as they are now different. - Updated: October 28, 2005
24. Which is best ,percentage or mileage for class C - Top
It would depend on what the actual numbers are, and how they ae applied to a respective carrier's program. As you research through the archives, you will find varying opinions as to which one is best. - Updated: October 28, 2005
25. How can i get my own authority and how much would it coast? I have a 24ft straght truck. - Top
Usually it will cost about $300 to $400 Information can by found at numerous websites by doing a google search. OOIDA is a good source for some basic information. - Updated: October 28, 2005
26. What is the best way to find small loads? and how can I find these companies? Most of the loads posted are for tractor-trailers. Thanks. - Top
Most depends on what you consider small. The bigger the truck, the more opportunities that will be available. Numerous load boards have available frieght, but not all will be expedite. Brokers will be listed on basically every load board. - Updated: October 28, 2005
27. Do you think a person,with no experience, could operate a D-unit under own authority and survive on brokers and internet loads? - Top
It is possible, but the deck would be stacked against you while you are learning. The better option is to seek a carrier for a period of time to really understand the business. - Updated: October 28, 2005
28. Where do i find contracts to start my own expediting company? - Top
http://www.tbabz.com/ or another place would be www.ooida.com - Updated: October 28, 2005
29. Where can I find a form for the Canadian border crossing card and the one if you have a felony? - Top
This should be available through your carrier. Additionally, the forms can be obtained at any Canadian Customs office. - Updated: October 28, 2005
30. I have been a company driver for the last 8 months however i have had some minor accidents none were ticketed,neither have i receive any points on my lic.the company safety department terminated me.i have apply to select sales freightliner they said i was approve to buy a tractor from them and they are guarantee me with a contract with logist and service warenty for a year ,bob tail insurance and price is around $55,000.00. question do you think i will be ble to make the payments of $1500.00 per mth.and will this company realy hire me with my driving record . i am single and normally stay out on the road for 2mths before going home...thanking you in advance for any response. - Top
I would recommend finding the carrier you would like to drive for, and then have them review and approve your driving record PRIOR to the purchase of a vehicle. - Updated: October 28, 2005
31. Would E.Tennessee,Kingsport-Bristol-Johnson City-Greenville area, be a good area to start up an express freight service or find enough expedite business to warrant the purchase of a D-unit expediter truck? - Top
Your area is very active with both types of frieght. Express will be more regional, while expedite will be more lucrative, but require trips out of the area. Both are really two types of operations, so your personal needs and ambitions come into play. - Updated: October 28, 2005
32. I live in Plymouth Michigan, and I was wondering where to go for insurance, or would I get it through my company? - Top
In general if your are leasing to a company, you would be set up through the carrier. If permitted by carrier, you could could to other sources like OOIDA or Transporters - Updated: October 28, 2005
33. Is there a standard drive time table for expediters and is additional time added when traveling through major cities? - Top
Most carriers use the standard 55 MPH distance factor - plus they typically allow for 15 minutes at the pick up and 15 minutes at the delivery. If you are delayed - you should notify your dispatcher who will then notify the consignee and possibly bump your delivery time. - Updated: October 28, 2005
34. Does any expedite company run just the southeast? - Top
No, most expedited carriers must be prepared to serve their customers on a national basis. - Updated: October 28, 2005
35. I live approx. 20 miles west of Cleveland Ohio. I am looking to obtain a job with an Expeditor driving straight truck or cargo van to start. I also am planning to go to truck driving school to obtain a CDL. I have a perfect driving record and no criminal background. Where should I start? Who should I contact? Should I get a CDL A or CDL B? If anyone knows of a company hiring in and around the Cleveland Ohio - Top
Starting as a driver is smart move. Visit our Free Classifieds section and click on the Drivers Wanted category. Fleet owners there can assist you in getting qualified and getting you on the road. - Updated: October 28, 2005
36. Are there any expedited carriers that are hiring in Florida? I live in central Florida. - Top
Most of the national expedited carriers accept owner operators who are based in Florida. Please visit our FIND JOBS page on this web site for a listing of national carriers. - Updated: May 12, 2005
37. Does an individual need to obtain a CDL to operate a 3/4 or 1 ton cargo van? - Top
Only if that individual hauls Hazardous Materials. - Updated: May 12, 2005
38. I have my own authority and operate a non-CDL (under 26,000 lbs.) straight truck based in Ohio. Am I required to file fuel taxes? - Top
Vehicles with 3 axles or more, or that have GVW of 26,001 lb. or more are required to file fuel taxes. A 26,000 lb. - 2 axle truck does not. - Updated: May 12, 2005
39. Are there any expedited companies that specialize in, or are based on the west Coast? - Top
Look to the very largest expediters, such as Fed-Ex Custom Critical, Landstar or Panther II to see if they have a need for a west coast truck. - Updated: May 12, 2005
40. Can you make a living expediting with a straight truck based in Eastern Tennessee? Does Tennessee have a sales tax exemption on commercial vehicles? - Top
You should be able to make a living expediting with a straight truck based in Eastern Tennessee. Finding the "right" carrier is crucial. Be sure to ask companies how many straight trucks they have currently signed on out of Eastern Tennessee, and how those contractors are doing. Don't be afraoid to ask to see settlement statements as proof of the revenue created by those other vehicles. Also ask about the customer base the company has in Eastern Tennessee. Am unsure if Tennessee has a sales tax exemption but you can contact: Tennessee Dept. of Revenue Andrew Jackson State Office Bldg. 500 Deadrick St., 5th. Floor Nashville, TN 37242 PH (615)253-2295 - Updated: May 12, 2005
41. Is there an industry standard for pricing freight? - Top
There is no industry standard in pricing freight services. A good idea for finding an average price range is to call freight carriers (trucking companies) and request quotes for a specific run, using same size vehicles from numerous companies. You can also obtain quotes on many companies web pages. - Updated: May 12, 2005
42. How and where can I haul freight for my own customers with a 22' Straight truck? - Top
You must first have your own Authority, permits and insurance before hauling freight for others. Finding freight may not be all that tough, finding good paying freight is. There are a number of load boards on the internet that match customers with trucks. For every 100 loads listed on these boards, one will be an LTL load that will fit on a 22' straight truck. - Updated: May 12, 2005
43. What is the GVW of a Class 7 vehicle with a tandem axle? - Top
Typically adding a tag axle, or stretching a Class 8 vehicle will result in the vehicle having a GVW of 46,000lbs. Axle laws pretty much limit the GVW. As far as length, 40 ft keeps you in great shape. - Updated: May 12, 2005
44. Where can I find a dealer in New York or near by to convert my straight truck to a sleeper . - Top
Currently, there are no dealers who specialize in Expediter trucks in New York. While there are many shops that can add a sleeper to your straight truck - you will find that the Expedite truck dealer have the best knowledge and know-how when it comes to these specialty trucks.
Visit this site here: http://www.expeditetrucksales.com - Updated: May 12, 2005
45. Do any expedite companies offer packaging services as well as transportation services of hazardous materials? - Top
Most expedite companies offer "no-touch" freight services to shippers. None that I am aware of offer packaging services for hazardous materials. - Updated: May 12, 2005
46. Are there any Expedite companies that offer CDL training? - Top
At the present time, I am not aware of any expedite companies offering CDL training. Most carriers (companies) have varying hiring requirements, including years of driving experience. I suggest finding a company that will hire you should you pass your CDL training PRIOR to paying for the training. - Updated: May 12, 2005
47. What do I need to operate a truck hauling freight for hire? - Top
Hauling freight for hire in any size vehicle across state lines requires FHWA Authority (your MC#). There are a number of permits, registrations, licenses and requirements that would apply to your operation. Contacting a consultant that specializes in these areas would be worthwhile. - Updated: May 12, 2005
48. Do any companies offer health care benefits to Owner Operators? Could you please explain fuel surcharge programs. - Top
Not many, if any, companies offer health care benefits to owner operators. The reason for this is that the IRS and Worker's Compensation could classify the owner operator as an employee, entitled to other benefits. Owner operators are their own business entity and are generally responsible for their own benefits, taxes, worker's comp and such.
In response to message #2
An example so you can see exactly how fuel surcharge works.
Owner Op of tractor is dispatched on a 500 mile trip. He is compensated at $1.05 per loaded mile PLUS fuel surcharge, currently at 15%. His truck averages 6.5 miles per gallon. The average price of diesel is $2.25 a gallon.
500 * $1.05 = $525.00 base pay
$525.00 * .15% = $78.75 fuel surcharge
$78.75 fuel surcharge + $525.00 base pay = $603.75 total pay
500 miles % 6.5 avg mpg = 76.92 gallons of fuel used
76.92 gallons * $2.25 / gallon = $173.07 paid at pump for fuel
$173.07 paid for fuel - $78.75 fuel surcharge = $94.32 O/O actual expense for fuel
$94.32 actual fuel expense % 76.92 gals fuel used = $1.23 PER GALLON ACTUAL O/O EXPENSE FOR FUEL
- Updated: May 12, 2005
49. Can freight be brokered to both Common and Contract carriers? Must the broker be issued a Certificate of Insurance listing the broker as a certificate holder? - Top
There should be no problem in brokering freight to either a contract or common carrier company. The common carrier would have to haul the freight under his general rate table as published in his tariff while the contract carrier would be free to negoiate rates. Either may requested to have their insurance company forward a certificate of insurance to the broker, listing the broker as a certificate holder. - Updated: May 12, 2005
50. Is a CDL license required to operate a one ton truck pulling a 32 foot trailer? - Top
If the trailer contains placardable amounts of hazardous materials, or if the weight of the trailer with load exceeds 10,000 lbs then a CDL is required by law. Trucking companies have the right to require drivers to have CDL's as a "company policy". - Updated: May 12, 2005
51. Are there any Expedite companies that are offering "Lease to Purchase" programs. - Top
ConWay NOW! has a new program for first time buyers. - Updated: May 12, 2005
52. What do Expedite companies charge their customers on average? - Top
Most expedite and trucking companies have websites. You can usually obtain a company's rates to it's customers by obtaining a quote through their website. You can also call the company and request a quote. Freight pricing is not rocket science and the information is easily obtained. - Updated: May 12, 2005
53. Where can I obtain information of Fuel Taxes? - Top
Information on fuel taxes can be found at www.iftach.org This is the website for the International Fuel Tax Agreement. Many states post copies of their IFTA tax forms and instructions. Most states' Department of Revenue or Taxation collect the fuel taxes. Brief, general, information on fuel taxes - Forms will ask the following: Miles everywhere. Fuel purchased everywhere. Average miles per gallon. The form will then request info on each state's miles and fuel purchases. Tax rates vary from state to state. - Updated: May 12, 2005
54. I am interested in obtaining my own authority. I plan on operating a 1 ton cargo van or pickup truck. What permits do I need to be legal? - Top
Companies (persons) who utilize cargo vans and pickup trucks that "haul for hire" are required to obtain FHWA (ICC) Authority and pay fees for each state for an RS-3 form (Single State Registration System SSRS). I would also suggest obtaining a US DOT Number. Check with each state you intend to operate in, especially if hauling "intra" state. Many states regulate intrastate moves and may have special permits (Michigan - MPSC decals) that even apply to vans or pickups. - Updated: May 12, 2005
55. I have no CDL and noexperience. I do have the ability to purchase a large cargo van. I am interested in expediting. What should I do (next)? - Top
An idea would be to secure a position as a driver for an independent contractor (owner operator)with a similar vehicle leased to an expediting company. You will acquire knowledge of the industry and be able to determine if you enjoy the job. An obstacle may be the lack of driving experience. Purchasing a vehicle without a good knowledge of the industry is not advised. - Updated: May 12, 2005
56. I have been working as an O/O of a cargo van. Lately I have been thinking about creating my own Expediting company. I do not know the process of incorporating. I am unsure of all DOT requirements and which requirements would apply to my operations. Can you assist me with the incorporation and the various permits, registrations, and insurance to operate legally in the United States and Canada? Thank you for your time. - Top
Please review the advertisements of the various transportation consultants. You can locate these ads in any transportation industry journals such as Transport Topics and truckstop magazines. These consultants are experienced with the various requirements and completing the registration forms. - Updated: May 12, 2005
57. I am new to expediting. Will I need a CDL to drive a cargo van? Will a company require me to have a CDL before they will let me sign on with them as an owner operator?. Thanks - Top
Company policies vary on the CDL requirement for operators of cargo vans. If the company transports placrdable amounts of hazardous materials in cargo vans then the operator of the cargo van must have a CDL with the Hazmat endorsement. If the company does not transport placardable amounts of hazmat in vans then the operator is not required by law to have a CDL. Companies always have the right to make their own policies regarding minimum hiring requirements. Insurance companies that insure the carriers also play a role in creating minimum hiring criteria. - Updated: May 12, 2005
58. How can I find out what are typical daily expenses driving a single straight truck? Cost of insurance? Permits? Any differences between Class A and Class B straight truck in daily expenses? - Top
Expenses are naturally slightly higher in a tractor as compared to a straight truck. The cost of fuel is the largest expense for either vehicle. Newer tractors will average about 6.75 miles to the gallon, while a straight truck about 9 mpg. Other than the truck payments, insurance will be the next largest expense. The Non-trucking liability insurance required of owner-operators by carriers will be the same for either vehicle - about $40 to $50 per month. The physical damage insurance will vary. Physical damage is typically about 4 to 6 percent of stated value. Assuming a tractor costs more than a straight truck, the insurance on a tractor would be more costly. An insurance cost example: Tractor valued at $100,000.00 and a straight truck valued at $75,000.00. NTL insurance on either vehicle being $45 per month, Phys Dam insurance being 5%. The monthly premium for the tractor would be $545.00, the premium for the straight truck would be $420.00. Permit costs are higher for a tractor, primarily the license plate fees. All states IRP fees are higher for an 80,000 lb. vehicle as compared to a 33,000 lb. vehicle. Plate fees alone can easily be double for a tractor when compared to a straight truck - perhaps $1800 for a tractor vs. $800 for a straight truck. Tires are another expense, eighteen vs. eight. Fuel and mileage taxes are much greater in the tractor. Tractors are subject to much higher tax rates for mileage taxes in the states of KY., N.M. and N.Y. to name a few. - Updated: May 12, 2005
59. I would like to know where I can get a long form so that I may get the physical in florida. Where can I find it? - Top
Lori; Most doctor's offices are familiar with DOT physicals and have the forms to perform the physical. If your doctor does not have the physical form you can obtain a copy of the physical form and Medical Examiner's Certificate at the following website http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/documents/safetyprograms/Medical-Report.pdf - Updated: May 12, 2005
60. My wife and I are moving 55 miles outside Las Vegas. I am 57 and receiving a pension from the company that I worked for! Expediting sounds interesting but It looks like we might be moving to a area where it wouldn't be very profitable. I just started researching and trying to get information about getting started.My location seems to be the only roadblock! What are you thoughts? - Top
Tom; Seems like your research is correct. Nevada is a tough area for freight of any type. You can reside in Nevada and still expedite. You need to be willing to deadhead to get out to the decent expedite lanes, be willing to stay out on the road for I would guess at least a month, and be willing to deadhead to get home. - Updated: May 12, 2005
61. Can you own and operate a cargo van and without a getting a CDL? - Top
Yes. However, if you are required to haul Hazardous Materials you would need to have a CDL with a Haz-Mat endorsement. - Updated: May 12, 2005
62. If I drove a cargo van, on average how much annual income can be made after overhead and expenses? - Top
This varies greatly from carrier to carrier and also depends on what part of the country you will be based in. You can expect net earnings to be in the area of $30K - $55K. - Updated: May 12, 2005
63. How can I find good agents/brokers to keep me loaded if I want to be independent of a carrier company? Do most agents require some kind of satellite tracking/communication systems to haul loads for them? - Top
Most shippers do not use brokers for moving their expedited shipments. For the few that go through that venue - most would go via ExpediteLoads.com. Keep in mind that you are required to have Federal, State and D.O.T. authority and be able to meet public insurance requirements. - Updated: May 12, 2005
64. I have a CDL class a in FL have had it since 10-03-03 drove over the road tanker hazmat 10-09-03 to 12-03-03 have been driving ready mix truck locally ever since. On 10-06-91 I had a DUI with an injury to other party for that I received a felony charge/dui I have had no tickets from that time on of any kind and no other criminal problems. Do you think it would be hard getting started in expediting? My credit history is A-1 rating. I live in Panama City, FL. - Top
Most carriers require that you have the ability to enter Canada. Currently, Canada views a DUI as a Felony - you have to request a "pardon" from the Canadian Government. We recommend calling Lucy Perillo of Pardon Services -877-438-7020. - Updated: May 12, 2005
65. Which company is the most forgiving for a reckless driving charge on my record? - Top
Many carriers no longer have the ability to overlook offenses on a driving record. They are now held to standards set by their insurance company and by Federal law. I would start by contacting each carrier on our "Find Jobs" page. - Updated: May 12, 2005
66. What is the normal pay scale for expedited loads? - Top
It varies from carrier to carrier and from truck size to truck size. A typical rate for a cargo van would be $.70 - $1.50 per mile. For a straight truck $.85 - $2.00 per mile and for tractors $1.25 - $2.50 per mile. - Updated: October 15, 2004
67. Do you have a listing of companies who hire drivers to drive for company owned trucks? - Top
Please visit our Free Classified section on this web site. - Updated: January 11, 2004
68. How do I get my company name on a list of expediters for hire? - Top
Please visit our Free Classifieds section on this web site http://www.expeditersonline.com/cgi-bin/classifieds/classifieds.cgi - Updated: January 11, 2002
69. Are there plenty of loads for expediters? - Top
Yes, however like most industries is subject to the fluctuations of the markets and economy. Also, expedited freight is concentrated in the expedited freight lanes of MI, IN, IL, OH, PA, NY, NJ, KY, TN, GA, SC, NC and Ontario, Canada. - Updated: January 6, 2005
