Advice to new owner/operator

[JimT]

This industry is as diverse as it gets. Dryvan, flatbed, step, double drop, RGN, containers, livestock, dump, tanker, specialized, etc... While some level of diversity is good, helps you become well rounded, ultimately it's important you figure out your own niche. Find what you like, what you're good at, a segment where you understand the dynamics of how freight moves, supply, demand. Use that knowledge to plan ahead, 3, 6, 9, 12 months. Understand how world events might affect your niche and adjust for changes. Understand you customers. What they do, what they want, what they need, why they do things certain ways. The better you understand your customers (shippers, receivers and brokers alike) the better you can adapt your business to cater to them and position yourself as an indispensable asset. Success in this business is equal parts performance, customer service and planning. Change is the only constant.