Getting Started In Auto Transport.

[greg9034]

I have been toying with the idea of starting my own transport company. I have always been good at driving/towing, and was looking into getting my cdl. I would obviously start off very small though F350 and a 3 car trailer. I realize you would need insurance and all that good stuff. I guess I'm just looking for some advice on how to get started. Anyone currently in this field or have any good info.

Also, I have already started looking for a rig. Would i necessarily have to have a f450/f550, or would an f350 suffice. I assume i would also need a fifth wheel trailer also.

I have picked up some information off this forum. I have read so far that i need..

US DOT# / ICC-MC#
Cargo Insurance
Tagged for Commercial use


looking at this f350

F350 Super Duty Dually Crew 2X4


Any help is appreciated.. I'm just looking for some direction.

[colo_dually]

Disclaimer: I'm not in this line of work, but considered it for when I left the service.

First you mention a 3 car trailer, therefore, I'm assuming its open transport. This will play a factor in clientele, as an 18-wheeler can open transport loads for less.

The F-350 may not be enough using the before mentioned 3-car trailer, you're looking around 15.5k max trailer weight with 4.10 gears, and 18k with 4.30's. I'd anticipate you'd be over weight with a flat bed GN and 3 average size cars. These loads would be typically transported via gooseneck, vise 5th wheel.

You start running commercial, your truck will need to also be under a commercial policy.
I'd advise you dig deep into what the operating costs of this are. Also here's some threads that helped me make my decision:

Who does auto transport?
Cargo insurance
Hot Shot Trucking ???