It's a Team's Life
Where do you start?
There is only one way to start and that is to ask questions and a LOT of questions. For many of us this was a life changing decision and as such it was not one to be taken lightly as our livelihood was riding on making the right choice. Leaving what is considered a secure job, retirement, vacation, a dead end, brain dead daily grind to see the open roads and travel from place to place is really not an easy decision. Each one of us has to follow our own path and make a lot of personal decisions.
Many start asking questions and reading on Expediters Online and then follow up with attending an Expedite Expo or a Expedite University one evening workshop.
First you have to understand the trucking industry and its various components such as the, line haul, LTL, hot shot courier and expedite business models. Ask yourself a lot of questions and I would suggest writing out your answers as they could change as you learn more about the business. Why are you interested in expediting?
How much personal income do you need each month?
If you own your home who will watch after it while you are gone?
How will you handle your mail and pay your household and business bills?
What business records will you need keep and will you need tax assistance?
How long do you want to do this?
How long are you willing to stay away from your home?
How will you handle illness or injury while on the road?
Where do you live?
Is the area good for freight opportunities?
What companies have freight in your area so that you can get home?
Should I sell unneeded vehicles and large toys to avoid maintenance/depreciation costs?
What size vehicle do you want to drive, Cargo Van, Straight Truck, Semi-truck?
Will you drive team?
Will you be driving with your spouse?
If you are not driving with a spouse will you consider driving with a partner?
Driving Solo
If you are going to drive solo can, what is your earning potential?
Ask about average income for a solo driving the type of vehicle you will be driving.
How long will you be able to stay away from home?
This will really affect you if driving with a partner that does not live near you.
All of these questions have been discussed on the Expediter Online Forums. In the upper right hand corner of the forums is a blank box with a magnifying glass. Type in a couple key words and start reading about that subject.
Expediter Online Forums
Bob & Linda Caffee
TeamCaffee

Saint Louis MO
Expediters since January 2005
Expediting isn't just trucking, it's a lifestyle; 

Expediting isn't just a lifestyle, it's an adventure;

Expediting isn't just an adventure, it's a job;

Expediting isn't just a job, it's a business.