3 Months with Tri-State in a Cargo Van

I'm trying to think of how to give details on this that will be helpful. It's kind of tricky just because this is such an unusual job in many ways.

First off I'll say I started off running Tractor Trailer. Mostly for PAM Transport then a few smaller companies. Over time I just got fed up with the typical problems that come with trucking. For example the major shortage of parking. Also some of the regulations.

So I decided to do something about it. I've seen the Van around a trucks stops and I've been curious about them for a while. I eventually got into a deal with a Fleet Owner who has Cargo Vans signed on with Tri-State Expedited. This by itself is crucial because I've heard you can hook up with terrible fleet owners and you have to be careful so I talked to several before signing on. So far I haven't had any trouble with this guy.

A few things I want to mention at this point. Since I'm driving a van that is owned by someone else we split the income the Van earns. I get 60 percent he gets 40 which seems to be standard in this business. If however you can provide your own Van you could be an owner operator and get all the money for yourself, but of course then you have to maintain your vehicle.

Also for some reason it seems standard for drivers to be a 1099 Independent Contractor which I think is weird. I've just been used to getting my W2s for taxes.

Now the really interesting part is I also pay for the fuel and I really wasn't used to that. I had to talk to a lot of people before this started to make any kind of sense.

A few things come into play. I get paid my rate for the load but I also get the fuel surcharge which helps me afford to pay for the fuel. Also all these road expenses should be figured into my taxes including the fuel receipts. This is my first year doing this so I haven't gone through the tax process yet.


Of course the big question is can you make any money doing this. IMO you can get by but I don't see anyone getting rich doing this. However to be fair I don't think it's that different from my income at PAM Transport driving tractor trailer. Maybe it was just my experience but that is a sad commentary on PAM.

With that I will say I'm getting ahead financially. I've had a few small checks but usually get close to $500. A few up to $700 or $900. I've also gotten myself into a very lean low cost of living situation. I'm based out of my parents' address and I'm not paying rent or a mortgage.

Personally if a someone can get into a very cheap cost of living arrangement like that I'd really recommend it if you want to try this. Then either save up at least $500 or maybe skate by with $300 and expect to use the credit card a little, but stick with the job so you can pay the card off which I've already done. Also I should say that I drive for about a month and then spend the night at my parents' place or a relative then go back out on the road. I want to be clear this isn't really a weekly home time thing unless you luck out and have a place near a regular customer or a regular route.

For my own situation I don't regret making the switch. I do immensely enjoy getting out of the Logbook and the Weigh Stations. I no longer have to hunt for parking spots that are a pain to back into. I can more easily get into grocery stores which is nice. The Van is more cramped for space but still worth it. I have a bunk in here behind the seats. I have my books and internet when I get bored and listen to podcasts or XM Radio while driving.

Eventually a person in my position might be able to save up for a Van to be an owner operator and have much better earnings potential, but maybe experienced owners in this forum could give more detail on that.

Well that's just a few random thoughts on my experience so far. I wanted to pass it on for other people looking for information on driving a Van.

 

I have room for 1 or 2 pallets. I have to flip the bed over if I haul a full load.


I'd say the 2 big customers are running parts for Volvo or Mack Truck. I'm often running stuff to Mack Truck in Lancaster, PA. I've also take some stuff from Columbus, OH to Dublin, VA a lot.

Otherwise I seem to kind of bounce back and forth between the Carolinas and New York or Pennsylvania.

I've also done 4 trips to Canada. I have also done one trip into a Pennsylvania Nuclear Plant. Just have to take your time going through the security screen.

 

I should also mention what I'm driving. It's a basic Chevy Express much like this. Kind of wish I had a Sprinter they look nice.

My fleet owner did say he wants to buy a single axle straight truck and he might let me have first shot at driving it. I'm thinking about it because I'll fall under many of the old regulations again, but I'll have to look at the earnings potential. Also even if I have to log again I still imagine being in a straight truck helps a lot with the parking issues.

 

I think at least 2500 but I don't know for sure. However the bigger the van and the heavier load capacity, the more types of loads you'll be able to pick up.

You could probably find out more talking to a recruiter.