Most owner-operators that have contracts or are looking into trucking for employment begin by searching for a Used Semi Truck. We see many people walking in our doors each day or searching online for the perfect used tractor / truck. They compare makes and models, engine types and transmissions, horse power and amenities but what many fail to consider is how creating a Business Plan can help their search. A successful business plan prepares you for not only a successful job but a lucrative and long-term career.
When you create a business plan you want to consider the following:
- Do you have a contract in place or employer lined up? If so, consider the amount of miles you have committed and length of contract. This will help determine your monthly income as the first step in your business plan.
- What are the costs involved in running your business? Consider prices for gas, food and maintenance on your vehicle. Depending on the mileage and condition of the truck you are considering, a warranty might be a better way to help you budget any unforeseen expenses or repairs.
- What can you comfortably afford in monthly payments for your vehicle? This is an important consideration as you don’t want to overextend yourself and feel strapped while meeting your obligations. Knowing what you can afford will help determine the range of trucks you should be looking at. Most first time truck drivers don’t purchase a used semi truck for sale that is fully loaded with all the bells and whistles but instead opt for a truck that will get them where they need to go knowing they can later upgrade and get into something more comfortable.
- What are your long term plans? Don’t just consider this year but determine where you’d like to be in 3 years, 5 years and 10 years. Would you like to have drivers working under you? If so determine now the steps you will need to take to save, make the necessary contacts and begin your own small fleet.
- Do you have a back-up plan? What if your contract is cancelled or employment terminated? Do you have a secondary plan or place you can go for immediate work? Through networking with other drivers, online or through word of mouth you can grow your network and make sure that should the unforeseen occur you won’t be left unable to make your commitments and continue operating your business.
Business opportunities are created not found and require work, effort and planning. Make sure when you’re ready to purchase your next used truck that you’ve created a plan that will not only help you get where you want to go today but build the future you’re looking to have.
