New driver.....owner operator is it the answer?

[Israel G]

Hello:
I got my CDL about 6 weeks ago. Regrettably 0 experience. I've been searching for employment but...
Looking at my situation from another angle I'm thinking of getting an used truck and start out on my own.
Starting out own my own is it as intimidating as it is exiting but I guess if we do not try we'll never know.
I am thinking about flatbed trucking....looks like I can find loads online and bid on them.
What do you guys think of my idea? Other than bidding online any other way to get work?
Steps/ papers that I'll need when starting out on my own?
I still do not disregard the idea of working for a company for a while if someone hires me either here in Canada or even in the USA in case anyone knows about a company that hires newbies.
Thanks everyone for your time, ideas, pros and cons....any comment is valuable to me.
Thanks.
Mr.Beefy

 

[Ragman]

Other than bidding online any other way to get work?
Steps/ papers that I'll need when starting out on my own?

It may be beneficial for you to work for somebody and learn some of the basic elements of the trucking business before investing in a truck. Not doing so is a sure fire way to financial failure.

 

[paullud]

You can't find a job as a truck driver?

 

[Turtle]

Calgary. Not a lot of expedite up there, but plenty of trucks.

 

[AnneM]

Check out some of the larger Flatbed companies and see if they have Canadian offices and offer a training program. Flatbed is a whole different type of trucking, there is a whole lot more to learn!
Good Luck!

 

[laicox]

If you have access to XM radio I would check out the RoadDog Trucking channel 146 ... especially Keven Rutherford at midnite EST or on Sat and Sun at 4M EST. www.letstruck.com

Hope that helps...