Trying to break into the trucking business and not sure where to start? Truck driving is one of the more flexible and less regulated industries when it comes to freelancing. It’s also one of the few which can offer work in most countries worldwide.
If you’re considering starting out as a freelance truck driver, you’ll want to arm yourself with as much knowledge as possible. Here are some tips you’ll want to if you want to get your start as a freelance truck driver.
What is a freelance truck driver?
A freelance truck driver is one who operates as an independent contractor and provides trucking services to a clientele of companies. Freelance truck drivers rarely, if ever, have to worry about “working regulations” or other such restrictions that factory workers and the like would be subject to. They also avoid having to deal with employment-related issues such as office politics and jealous co-workers.
Freelance truck drivers mostly work their own hours and are free to haul whatever cargo they like. This kind of employment is especially great for those who already have a valid CDL but don’t want to be tied down with an employer.
How do I become a freelance truck driver?
When it comes to starting out as a freelance truck driver, there isn’t a perfect formula. However, there are a few steps most people tend to take.
Figure out your specialty
Did you know that not every type of truck driving is the same? There are quite a bit of different trucking jobs out there, and each truck will require a certain type of expertise. There’s a huge difference between long-haul trucking, short-haul delivery, and everything in between, not to mention all the different cargos out there.
Ideally, you’ll want to pick a specific type of truck driving to specialize in and build your services around it. If you’re unsure what kind of truck driving to specialize in, the best way is to try out different types of trucking trucks when you can. It’ll be rough in the beginning because you’ll quickly discover there are several trucking jobs you’ll absolutely never want to do again. However, it’s important to stick it out until you find the ones you want to build your services around.
Before you jump into anything, you should do your research on the different opportunities out there to make sure there’s something for you. You will also what to be familiar with how these transports work. For example, it would help to ask someone about their experiences when they had to transport construction equipment using a flatbed trailer.
Create a business plan
You’ll want to put together a business plan once you’ve figured out your specialty.
As with any other business, it’s essential to have a plan. You can’t just jump into things without having a clear idea of where you’re going and how you’re going to get there.
Freelancing is all about finding your market and capitalizing on it, so you have to be sure your plan is in line with what you can actually achieve. In this case, your market is people who need goods moved from point A to point B and are willing to pay for it.
Getting started
Once you find a job that suits your interests and you have a business plan, get started.
Freelancing is all about making a name for yourself. The companies that do the most business will be the ones that have a reputation for excellent service and reliability, so it’s important not to get discouraged if you’re starting from the bottom.
Of course, while there’s no “standard” timeline for success in this kind of work, your prospects will be significantly higher if you’ve got a college degree or experience in logistics and have a specialty.
Final note
Last but not least, keep up your motivation. Freelancing isn’t easy. If it were, everyone would be doing it. There are going to be moments where you’re strapped for cash and doubting yourself. It’s important that you stay motivated throughout the process and just keep going.
