Comments By David D.

I do plan on buying more trucks which is the major reason I'm wanting to make the transition with her. She has never been or ever will want to drive but she is definitely good at record keeping and such. Making her co owner is a good idea. I will have to look into that. No there isn't enough work to be considered full time with just one truck but plan on buying at least 2 more within the year. Leaves a buffer for her to learn the ropes at least a little before taking on other drivers. I am able to have as many trucks under my insurance as necessary but my main concern is healthcare. Already have looked into that and my broker has showed me stuff that doesn't seem half bad tbh. I planned on hiring a couple guys I trust and not leasing O/O.

We are all doing the same thing...driving from A to B safely hauling goods to customers...thats it. If someone thinks that the difference between vehicle classes is primarily driver experience then it sounds like that individual has very little experience themselves. We all know guys making good money driving a box truck who do their job and go home to the Mrs which is what we are ALL doing. I attribute two things to guys who think that a vehicle class has to do with experience; inexperience themselves or fragile egos. This is the same argument about the WNBA vs NBA. NBA brings in more money so players make more but they both require the same skills while both playing the exact same game (as for pay). When it comes to driving abilities, I fail to see the difference other than one having a kingpin and locking jaws and one doesn't. Both can bump docks, load securement, strap down flatbed loads, dump buckets, tanker, etc. Me myself, if instead of managing trucks and driving OTR chem tanker I could make the same amount of money while being home everyday driving the Oscarmayer Weiner mobile I would TOTALLY do it! It all has to do with what you're willing to accept risk wise which directly correlates to pay and lifestyle. Only people in my experience who drive Class 8 vehicles that think box truck drivers are beneath them are guys who have big egos and small.... well you know

Good luck in you endeavors and stay safe out there! -Dave

So I am a new O/O with 8 years of trucking and looking to grow while also buttoning things up with the business using my wife's help. We have two small children (under 4 yo) so she needs to stay at home while concentrating on payroll, permitting, and record keeping. The question being is what is the best way to employ her that maximizes our benefits? She would be leaving a decent paying hospital job with great benefits so this is a major decision for us but in todays climate she is needed at home. Anyone have recent experience working with a spouse in trucking and how do you utilize that position so that benefits are maximized? I understand that my CPA would be the best person to answer questions regarding pay and taxes but I'm more concerned about justifying that individual when it comes to being an extension of myself being; picking up parts, signing for equipment, etc. Any guidance or insight is appreciated whether it's a pro or a con about making this transition. Thanks in advance!