An owner-operator is a person who has his own truck but is contracted to work independently for a trucking company or a group of companies. It is the ideal position for those truck drivers who are ambitious, want to be independent and make good money. However, you are your own boss and responsible for your own success, so this job is only for those who want to run a business.

Qualifications

Becoming an owner-operator truck driver requires no special education; however you must have a commercial drivers license from your state of residence and pass a Department of Transportation physical. Most companies that hire owner-operators require a good driving record; for example FedEx specifies that the driver have been involved in no more than three moving violations in the previous year. Some companies will also drug test owner-operators before hiring.

Buying a Truck

A good vehicle that suits your needs is the most important requirement for owner-operator truck drivers. Most truckers finance these vehicles and there are lots of lending companies and banks that offer loans on reasonably good terms. Finding a loan requires you to convince the bank or lending company of the returns in your profession, the level of your experience and the number and kind of contacts in the industry. The loan is usually a secured loan, guaranteed by the truck.

Finding a Job

The next important aspect of this profession is to get a continuous and steady supply of work. Since there is no work guarantee of any kind in this profession, it is important for the operator to network with the right industries and use those contacts to get work. The key lies in providing great and quality service once you are hired. As this is a fully service-oriented business, the most important element is to find and retain customers. Most operators connect to the industry when they are still working as drivers, acquiring sufficient experience and client contacts before becoming owner-operators.

Source:

How to Become an Owner-Operator

FedEx Owner Operators

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