Owner Op Background Checks

I am struggling to find employment over a BS criminal record. I'm feeling pretty doomed because all my experience is too old to count for most reasonable carriers and the new-driver mega companies won't touch me because of insurance. My question for the group is: Can owner op's find employment easier than company drivers? Furthermore, can they bypass the criminal background check to use load boards, brokers, etc.? I already have a company registered, I'd just have to switch it over to transportation instead of hospitality.

Hi. Going owner op right now is horrible. The insurance rates are skyrocketing, and theft has gone through the roof making brokers very suspicious of new carriers. Most brokers won't work with you without at least 6 months authority. If you use a gmail or if you change your email after you set up your authority.... it looks fraudulent.

This video is amazing and full of info about this stuff. There is so much more involved than most people think.

Snorelord Broker Discussion

How long has it been since you drove? Most insurance companies won't cover you with extended time off. Usually the megas are easier to get with than smaller carriers with stricter rules.

Keep applying everywhere. Try Western Express. And that BS criminal record needs to be something you take accountability for, not dismiss it. Good luck

Josh you have alot packed in here.

First of all if your looking to become an O/O this is a horrible time with the rates being in the toilet no matter how you get freight.

Leasing a truck onto a carrier is possible. You will go through the same process as if you were hiring on to be a company driver. They do it that way because your operating under their authority and insurance.

Getting your own authority for your own company then you set the rules, except for the mandated ones from fmcsa.

You then either have to have your own direct customers or use brokers. Brokers have become stricter over the past few years. They look at your safety score, insurance coverage including length of policy, and length of you having an uninterrupted operating authority.,

Reputable brokers are looking for anywhere from 12-18 months of operating authority before they will even talk to you. Dod requires 36 months. They have lately also been asking for references and contacting those folks asking how their experience is/was with you as a carrier.

The last year many brokers are turning people away based on the safety score.

The nature of the economy and the high level of theft has made starting out on your own much harder than it used to be.

Thank you for the informed replies.