Thinking of Hitting the Open Road as a Car Hauling Owner-Operator? Read This First!

So, you're dreaming of the freedom of the open road, the challenge of running your own show, and the potential for a bigger paycheck? You want to be your own boss in the car hauling industry? That's the spirit! But before you jump in your cab, let's have a real talk, driver to driver.

The folks over at Overdrive recently talked to Alan Kitzhaber, their Trucker of the Year, and he dropped some serious wisdom for anyone considering becoming an owner-operator. And let me tell you, it applies just as much to hauling cars as it does to any other freight.

Are You Really Ready?

Kitzhaber asks some tough but necessary questions:

• Do you crave the freedom of the road?
• Are you up for the challenge of running a business?
• Are you focused on boosting your car hauling revenue and efficiency?
• Do you want the pride of owning your auto transport business?
• Are you committed to learning and improving?

If you're nodding your head, that's a good start. But if you're picturing yourself in a rig that's all show and no go – all chrome and fancy paint but terrible on fuel – you might need to rethink your priorities. That kind of setup eats into your profits, and in this business, profit is king. Especially in the competitive world of vehicle shipping.

It's Not Just a Job, It's a Business

Here's the cold hard truth: Wanting to "give it a try" is a recipe for disaster. To succeed as an owner-operator, you've got to be all in. You've got to have that fire in your belly, that desire to make it work. Because let's face it, there will be tough times.

Kitzhaber stresses the importance of continuous learning. And he's spot on. Whether it's:

• Learning from other successful car haulers
• Reading industry publications
• Taking business courses online or at your local college
• Digging into YouTube tutorials
• Connecting with other drivers in auto transport forums

The knowledge is out there. You just have to grab it.

Knowledge is Power (and Profit)

You might think all you need is a truck and a loan. But that's a dangerous misconception. Running a successful car hauling business requires business smarts. You need to know your numbers, plain and simple.

• Know your costs: Fuel, insurance, maintenance – it all adds up. Tools like Overdrive's Load Profit Analyzer can help, but you need to have a handle on your own expenses.
• Get an accountant who knows trucking: A regular accountant might miss deductions that are specific to our industry. A trucking accountant is worth their weight in gold. They'll help you maximize your car hauling profits.
• Master spreadsheets: Learn to use them for everything – profit and loss statements, expense tracking, mileage records, you name it. Spreadsheets are a trucker's best friend for auto transport logistics.

Keeping Your Rig (and Yourself) Running

Your truck is your lifeline. If it's down, you're not making money. That's why maintenance is absolutely critical in the car hauling business.

• Build a relationship with a good shop: Find a reliable repair shop and stick with them. Consistent, on-time payments go a long way in building trust and priority service.
• Have a maintenance fund: Kitzhaber recommends having a hefty savings goal to cover major repairs like overhauls. Start saving early and consistently.
• Invest in preventative measures: APUs, auxiliary heating, and oil filtration systems can save you money and extend the life of your truck.
• Carry spare parts: Be prepared for minor repairs on the road. A few basic tools and common replacement parts can save you time and money.
• Track everything: Keep detailed records of all maintenance, fuel economy, and part replacements. This helps you anticipate future needs and control costs.

Taking Care of Yourself

Kitzhaber emphasizes that your health is just as important as your truck. This job can be tough on your body, so you need to prioritize self-care.

• Regular checkups: Don't just rely on your DOT physical. See your doctor regularly and get thorough exams. Early detection is key.
• Healthy diet: Processed foods are the enemy. Focus on whole foods – protein, vegetables, fruits, and grains. Meal prep is your friend on the road.
• Exercise: Truck driving is sedentary. Find ways to stay active, even in your truck. Resistance bands, calisthenics, and even simple bodyweight exercises can make a big difference.

Kitzhaber shares his own exercise routine, which focuses on functional fitness and can be done in the truck. It's proof that you can stay healthy on the road.

The Long Haul

Being a successful owner-operator in car hauling is a marathon, not a sprint. It requires dedication, business acumen, and a commitment to taking care of both your truck and yourself. But if you're willing to put in the work, the rewards can be well worth it.

So, are you ready to take the plunge?