Fuel for Thought

The Waiting Game

          Yesterday's run brought up a good point that prospective expediters need to remember.  Many people go out and stay out a long time, and therefore, when they're home, they are out of service.  Since van drivers can run much cheaper than big trucks, many van drivers will run back home and stay in service.  The thing to consider is, if you stay in service, and go away from your van/truck, you run the risk of missing a run.  Sure, many of our runs have advance notice of a couple hours, etc.. however, many times, we must leave within 15 minutes!  So, if you want to run errands, you either have to run them in your van (pre-loaded with your clothes, necessities, etc...).. or make sure you're never farther than 15 minutes away from your van.  It can be a gamble, that's for sure... and some thing to consider if you want in this business. 

        When home, and in service, your time is not REALLY your own.. even tho this business provides a ton of flexibility, you have to decide ahead of time which way you want to do it.

Dale is a solo van owner operator with FedEx Custom Critical, and can be reached with comments at [email protected]