Thinking about fiding a driver

kangar0085 · Feb 24, 2007

I own and operate a "B unit" but I'm hoping to move up to a t/t pretty soon so I'm thinking about looking for a driver and doing a 60/40 split. I've heard alot of awful stories on this forum about nasty drivers who just up and quit and leave your truck in the middle of nowhere. Personally I am in awe of owners who find half way decent drivers and somehow make a profit after all the headaches and the bs. I'm not looking to make a profit all I need is for the guy to make enough money per month to cover my expenses including the van payment. Should I go trough with this or just let the truck sit and pay it off with out any headaches. If there are any van owners out there your advice is appreciated.

cheri1122 · Feb 24, 2007

You don't say whether you have experience driving t/t or not, and I think that's an important factor in your decision. If you are starting as a new driver in a big truck, it's a whole different world - how much 'new' stuff can you handle all at once? Trying to wear too many hats when it's all new can be really overwhelming, and I wouldn't advise it.
If you read the archives here, you'll find lots of good advice on being a good owner, and you already know how to keep a good driver, having 'walked a mile in their shoes', but the problem of finding a good driver is perennial. You can ask for word of mouth from others, run all the background and reference checks, and ultimately, you have to go with your judgement - having a good 'BS detector' is a huge asset, there.
Don't forget that you'll be responsible for the maintenance and repairs of the van - if it breaks suddenly, you have to be prepared to pay for that, so a healthy bank account is a neccesity as well. If the driver needs to stay in a motel for a few days, you will have to cover that, too.
If you decide to go ahead with hiring a driver, take the time to research thoroughly first - it's not a casual relationship. And last, good luck to you, whichever way you go.

RichM · Feb 24, 2007

I am not a van owner but based on what you said I would sell the van so you can concentrate on the T/T operations. Last thing you want is to be 2,000 miles away from your van when it has a problem or the driver quits.

nightcreacher · Feb 25, 2007

I agree with Rich,concentrate on your tractor when you get it,less chance of getting in trouble with that van,you will sleep better at night

kangar0085 · Feb 25, 2007

The van is an '06 with around 80 thousand miles on it so risk of it breaking down is low. I also have saved enough money in the bank to feel confident in going trough with this but I will always accept any kind of advice I can get from an experienced owner.

highway star · Feb 25, 2007

I'm not a fleet owner, but I think it will be more of a headache than it's worth. You're probably gonna take a hit selling it with that many miles on an '06, but that's better than the potential hassle that could happen with a driver. IMHO.

blizzard2014 · Feb 25, 2007

If you are thinking about making the change, i'm looking for a cargo van to drive. I would be interested in driving for you for a few months (just long enlough to save up enough money to qualify for a loan on the thing). I recently tried to get a loan from alumni- bunk but they said I need to have atleast 30% down which is six thousand dollars. Well, I only have five to put down, and I still need money for operating expensis and stuff. I think they want a big down payment because I already pay 465 a month in payments for my personal vehicle. If you would be interested in an arrangement like this, I can park my new car at your place "as a token gesture that I will not leave your van out in the middle of nowhere, or do anything unprofessional while operating your equipment. We could do a contract, one written up by a lawyer, and if things don't go as planned we would both have to meet at your place to swap vehicles. I really don't want to work for anyone, so, I will bust my but for a few months and then take the extra cash and look for a bank that is willing to finance me. Let me know what you think about this proposition.

PS. Why are you thinking about going into a tracktor trailer? Is it because running a B-unit is becoming unprofitable? Also, what company is it leased on with, just wondering. Thanks.

kangar0085 · Feb 25, 2007

No it is quite profitable if you own the unit...not as profitable as a D unit or E and that is the reason I'm moving up. I'm on with panther and very happy with the company but like I said..thers more money out there to be made in bigger equipment. Send me a pvt message blizz...and well communicate that way.

pellgrn · Feb 26, 2007

Draw up a contract,hold a escrow,and try to find someone who lives close to you 100 miles or so.Plan for the worest and hope for the best.

kangar0085 · Feb 27, 2007

lol thx pelle will do!

fastman_1 · Feb 27, 2007

One Thing I found Back When I did Own 2 Vans is Van #2 Dosen't Pay for its self, By The Time you Pay a Driver There isn't Enough to make the Payment, Plus you have twice the amount of Headaches, I think owning a T/T And a van the Van is going to lose.

Owner/Operator since 1979
Expediter since 1997
B Unit Semi Retired
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