Becoming an owner-operator is a significant step for truck drivers looking to gain independence and control over their careers. As an owner and operator, you’ll own and operate your own trucking business, giving you the freedom to choose your routes, clients, and working hours. However, this transition requires careful planning, and a thorough understanding of the responsibilities involved.

Once you have your initial licenses and permits (including a commercial driver’s license and operating authority from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration), you need to purchase or lease a truck (or get on with a carrier) and cover your fuel and maintenance costs but also pay for insurance, taxes, etc.

Even more important are maintaining proper federal and state records, ensuring hours-of-service (HOS) compliance, and having a safe truck. TruckX is developing a host of tools and services to help owners and operators handle these issues. For example, they’ve devised truck expense management software, developed route optimization software, and created driver apps to ensure HOS compliance.