The wisdom of Dave is never disappointing. You rookies really need to listen to this man.
@robertruschak70835 жыл бұрын
Great insight 😎
@explosivejoseph3345 жыл бұрын
I currently drive for prime and quite honestly the pay isn't as good as probably most truckers make outside of a mega carrier play as far as mega carriers are concerned I would say that they pay more than the majority. I commented just a little while ago and I think that you should read my comments because it's all first-hand experience as far as prime as concerned.
@fatcatsnuggleparty42725 жыл бұрын
A friend of mine is looking into this stuff, and they were dead set on lease driving because their dad does. ... Linked them this dude's stuff, because the knowledge of this dude is solid to pass on. \o/
@joshlay4475 жыл бұрын
Will do, love the internet.
@trucker18645 жыл бұрын
Got that right hes great and knows his stuff
@DeannaJacksonDJsDelectables5 жыл бұрын
This is why I'm glad I found your channel before I got my permit! I'm sticking to being a company driver until I can afford to become an actual owner operator. Screw that leasing bullshit!
@SmartTrucking5 жыл бұрын
Good move Deanna! Dave
@JohnnyJPatt5 жыл бұрын
All the dislikes were carriers. Most likely carrier executives wanting to screw more drivers
@truckerzachbell5 жыл бұрын
I suspect I have the same problem on my channel in addition to me being a boring presenter. The carriers ALL have DISLIKE spammers as friends...
@yerPickle4 жыл бұрын
Or lease operators that don't want to admit they are getting screwed.
@chuckguyitt40174 жыл бұрын
After 43 years of driving, there is only one thing you have to remember and that is "You only got that load cause you where the cheapest"
@ThaBlkRainbow5 жыл бұрын
Number 1 reason: - You don't control your loads so you have no control over your money.
@jakebogus53615 жыл бұрын
Schneider has a load board and they pick their loads.
@mjones0820075 жыл бұрын
Schneider you do
@dontrustwhiteyevery14 жыл бұрын
Depends on who you drive for. Never go with mega carriers!!
@Mr_Clean4 жыл бұрын
#1 reason - your name isn't on that title until final payment. They can cancel your lease anytime. You have no claim to the truck.
@raymondbrosious76165 жыл бұрын
Let me, 47 years out here, Done all of it. What I like About leasing is very simple. After 7 years with PRIME, I paid off 2 leases, and could have bought out either of them for a VERY reasonable amount. In 2010, My wife died suddenly. If I had a bank loan guess what, Id of had to keep driving. With my lease, I drove back to Pittston yard, Parked the truck and walked away. 1 month later I received a check for the balance. This guy has great stories from other guys. I have a personal story. If you run, Don't spend foolishly you can make money with Prime. There are many drivers who have been there longer then I was. I ran NE, Very good freight rates, don't know about today. But I averaged a bit over 2 bucks a mile. Before surcharge. I WOULD never sign my life away for a truck with a bank. AND NO, Prime did not break me, or ruin my credit. But remember one thing, I wasn't a nube when I started with Prime. I already had 30 years out here. Company, O/O, and independent. So I knew what I was doing. I will agree that a rookie should no way do anything except company drive for a few years to find out what this business is about and if it's for you. To many drivers out here stuck with payments and hate what their doing. Just my thoughts and experience. Just remember there are two sides to everything. Now start all the hate comments. I'm not a snow flake, Words don't hurt. LOL
@iamOAKland5 жыл бұрын
raymond brosious exactly and your situation differs from everyone else. That’s why I don’t understand why people not you, say one thing is bad or don’t do this because their paths to success isn’t on the same road.
@SuperBigblue195 жыл бұрын
47 yrs under your belt & your cheerleading for one of the most notorious scammers in the industry? If you are an experienced O/O or independent , why would you ever lease a company truck? " I knew what I was doing" ? Naw not so much. I have only been driving since 91 but if Prime was reputable they would never let a nob rent one of their trucks. If prime was reputable they would pay published percentage not cpm. If Prime was reputable they would not have nobs training nobs. And the list goes on & on.
@simplespeed845 жыл бұрын
Agree 100%. I was the newb that signed a lease. I also went into trucking knowing that my goal would be to eventually own my own truck some day. I had no intention of owning one through prime but i did want to jump in head first and learn how to swim. I swam in 72k work of gross jncome to myself after expenses and i freakin loved it. Gotta know when to say no. Saying yes to everything will leave you broke!
@kylemorice48705 жыл бұрын
I'm gonna stay company for a few years to see if this is for me. I don't know how leasing is for prime but in stevens transport it looks like a total crap shoot. I've heard lease and owner operators complain bout the program.
@aaronbrutus26545 жыл бұрын
Exactly. There really are always two sides.
@mr.fridggyyy58265 жыл бұрын
I always wanted to do over the road because my old man was. Back in the early 2000s I ran with my old man every summer time and it was great. Now I work for a local food delivery company. My dad told me to stay at this job because I work tuesday-friday, I get paid by the hour, and I'm home every night working 10-14hours a day, and we get overtime pay after 40hours in a week. So if the truck breaks down, or some freight is coming in late I get paid. When I'm on the clock I'm getting paid. Also we are elog exempt. My dad told me theres hardly any money in OTR anymore. That's why he drives local now too. My company is small, we have 5drivers and it's almost like they are family, because it is a small family business. The Owner treats us all very fairly and I'm happy with my job. Local delivery jobs by the hour I think are the way to go if you find a good carrier.
@johnajax6315 жыл бұрын
Father knows best
@jasonbabila60065 жыл бұрын
I agree, I’ve done OTR until 2001 and started driving tankers locally getting paid by the hour with great overtime delivering gas and diesel to gas stations, jet fuel and AVGAS to the airports and airfields, always home every night but my weekends were Thursday and Friday, I worked on most holidays and I got tired of it, I currently work for the railroad since 2006, it’s a whole lot different now with the railroad, it’s Monday through Friday, off on all weekend and holidays, the option to work overtime or not in some cases, it’s the best career change I’ve ever had.
@ad3565 жыл бұрын
i too work locally. i get paid by the day, driving milk tanker. i made 60 grand last year. i also dont think OTR is was it once was. its way too lonely and miserable of a life for way little money. i have a wife and two kids. i go home at the end of the day.
@mr.fridggyyy58265 жыл бұрын
@@ad356 I wish I did 60k. I did 45 last year. But since I have three day weekends I have a paying hobby witch gives me extra. And also this was my first full year of driving(2018). So to me 45 ain't to bad for a 22 year old single guy. I'm happy with it.
@shamboozle225 жыл бұрын
Yup. US Foods here. Great job and pay, and like you said home every weekend and paid by the hour. Never going back to otr
@notvanillamedia5 жыл бұрын
They really own you if you lease from them. And you can't even quit and move on. All they have to do is starve you for work and they get the truck back.
@foreverstrong85885 жыл бұрын
Guess what happens if you have a truck payment while you're snowed in at the truck stop? You STILL have to make your pay.. Honestly not much different dude.
@fauj78605 жыл бұрын
@@foreverstrong8588 snowed in what ???? What is that supposed to mean
@killer26005 жыл бұрын
@@foreverstrong8588 Very much different. Not earning income is one thing, not making money and having a truck payment to make is another. Company drivers don't have to worry about paying for a truck that isn't making money.
@jesterd145 жыл бұрын
After 6 years of driving, I thought about becoming an O/O. But I wasn't going to be a company driver paying all the costs for operating a truck so the company keeps all the money. My company had a training program for O/O that they put all new O/O through (They paid you for the 2 weeks) so I talked with my manager and she told me to call the team. I did. They told me that I could go to a dealer and work with a bank, but I should call them before I signed to see if they would be able to do a better rate. The woman I talked to asked me if I had at least 10% in cash to put down, and if I would be setting up a repair account myself. She said if the answer to either of those is not yes, you are not ready to go out on your own.
@HipsterOctagon4 жыл бұрын
As a young guy that just started trucking school, I'm glad I found these videos. I don't know anyone that actually is a trucker so I would never have known these things. Thanks Dave.
@danielladd33915 жыл бұрын
I've been driving for 3 years now and entering my 4th. I used to disagree with you on these lease programs, but as time has gone by I now agree with you comepletely. Stop drinking the company cool aid drivers, it's poisonous!
@1979mackdriver5 жыл бұрын
Daniel Ladd Reverend Jim Jones used grape flavored Flavor-Aid to mix his cayanide , not Kool Aid , please help stop the perpetuation of this myth . But in the 1980s Kool Aid is guilty of millions of dollars of private property structural damage by allowing their mascot to crash through people's walls instead of using the doors to enter or handing it through the window when his ample girth did not permit him to use a door. They have since made full restitution to the property owners through the " reckless sugary drink mascot insurance fund act of 1992 "
@charron15 жыл бұрын
Took you 3 years to learn a lesson. Better late than never
@rogerbayless5 жыл бұрын
I've been in trucking almost 3 months now and i talked to some of the guys who lease with my company and after talking to them, my first thought was "welp if i ever become a owner/lease operator I'm going to buy my truck." They are paying $1000 a week
@Tayrik_74 жыл бұрын
charron better late than neveeeeeeer 👍🏼
@davidschmidt2704 жыл бұрын
@@1979mackdriver 😂😅😅😆😆😆😆
@thomasjohnson92945 жыл бұрын
Thank you God ,i need to hear this!!!! I was about to fall in this trap...
@donje315 жыл бұрын
Thomas Johnson my friend CHARLES is doing it and he’s successful and his truck is almost paid off and he was allowed to take the truck to different carriers
@SmartTrucking5 жыл бұрын
@@donje31 But he was perhaps in a lease deal from a 3rd party, not the trucking company. And that can happen. We are talking about the lease deals direct from the trucking company.
@youthmanrecords9655 жыл бұрын
Landstar.
@fyaboijay4 жыл бұрын
Thomas Johnson don’t believe the hype. If you down to run and work OTR 4-6 weeks the money is there. $2K+ a week take home. People who never worked with Prime always have the most false information to spread
@pilotman3225 жыл бұрын
you know... I'm going into Prime's training program the first week of April and I was planning on going lease... After watching your channel, I have changed my mind. Thank you!!
@coypinoy220925 жыл бұрын
This is misrepresentative. Prime does have its issues but arbitration is standard for almost any employer. Most contacts ask for arbitration first with an employer. This guy is just trashing prime. They don't call lease operators owner ops. They are upfront about what you're signing. I know many drivers with tens of thousands in emergency funds that drive for prime, as a result of his good stewardship. Have good expectations, understand the agreements, have meaningful conversation with your fleet manager.
@jbgaming84265 жыл бұрын
No kidding on stay away from company sponsored leasing my current company is trying to get me to lease a truck I told them why buy one of your trucks when I can put the same money down on a truck that I can spec and be something that I would actually want to buy. Great videos keep it up and be safe.
@SmartTrucking5 жыл бұрын
You too! Thanks for watching! Dave
@edmondascolose33605 жыл бұрын
They always give you a used truck never new.Truckers also used to stick together how many fought and died because companies running all night.What a shame working for free showers.
@GDCTT5 жыл бұрын
JJBRISTOL048 you are a smart individual.
@SkilledEddie5 жыл бұрын
Difference is if you fail with your financed truck from a dealer they repo it and screw up your credit. That's a benefit of leasing if it doesn't work out take the truck back and your credit isn't screwed up.
@daimyo_one5 жыл бұрын
It’s sad. When I was with my trainer at CR England he broke that nonsense down to me and why he never went home. Also running like crazy just to pay the truck note, fuel etc 🤦🏾♂️
@andrebrown46695 жыл бұрын
That's the best advice I've heard since my friend said, "DON'T marry her" LOL🤣🤣🤣!!! 🚛
@rodflores13345 жыл бұрын
Andre Brown 😂😂😂
@auditoneusa7474 жыл бұрын
Andre Brown - Yeah but most guys, probably you & I included married her anyways. LOL It’s true
@kevinking56834 жыл бұрын
The best part about Prime is the decal on the back door. They're one of the slowest trucks on the road, so you see the decal, gives you time to plan ahead.
@lilnarm_smoothblaze4 жыл бұрын
Right lol
@JoeGiz644 жыл бұрын
Kevin King You are so right! On my way home from work today on 287N roads were empty and there was a Prime rig going exactly 65 in a 65 zone. Roads were empty due to the closures in the NY/NJ area traffic was flying by.
@timerickson70564 жыл бұрын
I lived near a large military base and they had their own tv channel on that channel they ran Schneider infomercials aimed at soon to retire military personnel. The military at that time gave a separation package of around $30,000 Schneider was pitching a owner operator lease program for $25,000 down .
@dbastardo15 жыл бұрын
Everyone in the trucking industry is there to make money, including the driver. Not everyone has the same “luck” ether but more than “luck” is knowing/learning where to go and how to do it. I didn’t have the means to buy a truck so I tried a lease-purchase option but did a “test” first with the people that offered this lease-purchase. Got decent results from my “test”, did the lease-purchase deal and after 2 years the title of truck I’m driving was put on my name. This transition from lease to owner operator happened on August 2018 and I’m still driving MY truck 😀👍. Interesting video!
@garywilm45823 жыл бұрын
Another reason to STAY AWAY FROM 'NEVER/NEVER PLANS": company gives you excellent miles and destinations for the first two months. And then the loads start drying up. "Sorry we don't have any loads going out west or south, but we do have these loads (usually with multiple drops) going to New York, or Baltimore , or Boston. You need to make your "lease" payments, so you grudgingly accept these awful assignments. Welcome to the wonderful world of being a lease operator. Sheer Hell! Stay away from this scam! I've been trucking (as an employed driver) for 41 years . Listen to 'old timers' like Dave (or myself). We have seen all of the scams in this industry, and we hate to see guileless young folks be deceived by this industry. I still like banging down the road, but I have always despised this industry. The trucking industry is one vast viper pit. Do your research before you get on board. Stay safe out there guys-and gals!
@Gslice-ok4ck5 жыл бұрын
I drive for Prime on the company side and it’s not to bad. I’ve secured a dedicated run that gets me home everyday with weekends off. I can’t complain. The great part about being a company driver is that I’m only responsible for being on time and keeping the truck/trailer safe. No tire fund, no fuel bills, no shop bills, no CPA and the end of the year. The simplest way, seems to be the best way.
@SmartTrucking5 жыл бұрын
Usually is! Stay safe Mike and thanks for writing in! Dave
@iamOAKland5 жыл бұрын
The simplest way you describe is the way of the rat race. Simple people get deli leftovers!
@jeremygriggs13335 жыл бұрын
Prime sucks company driver cant idle apu gelled up its -50 in Chicago prime cant idle hurt the resale of the truck
@yohnny88395 жыл бұрын
What run do you have?
@seanwarren93575 жыл бұрын
@Trucker Rodriguez Certainly better weather, as long as the AC isn't on the fritz. ;)
@godfathertrucking89185 жыл бұрын
What's even worse is that these lease operators are often less experienced than the company drivers. Guys cant slide their tandems, cant really back, but they boast about owning their own truck.
@interstateeddietv85515 жыл бұрын
Exactly, they are all over KZfaq.
@ElizabethF22225 жыл бұрын
Yeah. Pretty bad to "own" your own truck and not even be able to slide the tandems or back.
@SmartTrucking5 жыл бұрын
You're right! Dave
@miguelrobb57195 жыл бұрын
homer randall 7-10 years is WAY too long.
@yohnny88395 жыл бұрын
What is backing?
@philosophyoftrucking4 жыл бұрын
You said it, my friend. My first company, C. R. England, tried to get me and others in my class to become lease operators right out of trucking school. I said no, and I'm glad I did.
@nellatl5 жыл бұрын
Lease operator relationship sounds alot like uber lyft drivers.
@Dababster15 жыл бұрын
Kudos on this video. I can speak from experience. I started out with Prime, Inc. for the “paid” training. I had a bit of trouble adjusting to driving with a 53’ trailer and had several minor dings, usually small scratches or dents. As a result I had four separate trainers. They all sucked. They were non-communicative, ignorant and arrogant. In addition even company drivers are told they have to pay for chains, load locks, trailer locks, etc. I did, regrettably, do the lease-operator thing and it was a nightmare. My weekly operator “expenses” were over $1300 / week and that didn’t count any fuel. I was repeatedly asked to take loads in which I would break even, lose money or just barely make money. Run away from these scenarios as as fast as possible.
@jasonwilliams57464 жыл бұрын
Depends on how you work it tbh...if u keep a trainee, you can really bank as a lease operator.dominic also chose the wrong lease program with prime...always go with a walk away lease if you're wanting to try it out
@tombair14014 жыл бұрын
I'm glad I quit over the road and went to the oilfield 20 years ago holy cow
@newtonvictorian6874 жыл бұрын
How
@kevinkoz62965 жыл бұрын
Excellent advice! I own a 92 kw w900l, it doesn’t owe me a dime. I keep it up mechanically and looking good which keeps the dot of my back, even had some good comments from them. I lease it to a heavy equipment/heavy haul company in Alberta and run western Canada. Nice owning your own truck. If I don’t like what’s going on with the company I’m at I just turn in my plates and fuel cards and go to another company. It’s a bit hard sometimes running older iron to find a company to lease onto but usually once they see the truck and run it through their shop I don’t have a problem. No emissions problems, no def, just and old 425b block cat. Will run forever
@SmartTrucking5 жыл бұрын
You got it made Kevin!! Dave
@FredFlintstone215 жыл бұрын
Thats great to hear Kevin! How many miles on your 92 now since new?
@orlandoreese195 жыл бұрын
You wanna sell it??
@TheM.A.5 жыл бұрын
Back in the 90’s I remember Burlington had a deal like that. Some type of truck loan program where they were basically standing as the bank. Once you paid the truck off it was yours. I remember a ton of guys never getting work in their last 6 months to a year of the last part of the loan. Burlington got the truck back and started again with the next naive driver that came along. They eventually got busted I believe.
@Rosethatwantstomove4 жыл бұрын
They went bankrupt 2nd time. Celadon held a note if I'm not mistaken & they called it in. They fired me & demanded money in 72hrs for the lease buyout. I was happy when they went out of business.
@filexarmando83985 жыл бұрын
I thank this man in the video. He had the balls to make this video to prevent others from making the same loudsy and chitty mistake of doing contracts that never is gonna help you out.
@pheleant5 жыл бұрын
Dave, Thanks you for being willing to be GUT level honest about the danger of the lies that carriers tell drivers!! Those stories should raise the hair on the back of every drivers neck. Anything we can tell people trapped in that nightmare. May we all strive to show the same concern for other drivers that you showed to that family. We all know what it's like to have a bad day. The kindness you show a driver one day may be the kindness you need the next day! I feel fortunate that I was trained and hired by companies that really cared about me.
@realManospere2 жыл бұрын
Thank you for the helpful information. I’m starting my trucking school on 01/03/21 but I been asking question from guys that is in the trucking business, OP and watching KZfaq videos about trucking since April of 2020. My school is paid fully by a grant that I don’t even have to pay back and I will never , never , never sign a lease contact because of this video and many others. Thanks for the information. P.S. don’t let trucking companies pay for your schooling if you can, go get a loan, borrow the money or setup a payment arrangement with the school. The companies is going to do is take the money back in the long run or put you in a year contact. Trust me, you will not regret it later on down the road.
@truckerjp71175 жыл бұрын
I will say I research for over a year on the lease purchase programs of many many companies. All but one company that I came across end up basically not making it able to afford the balloon payments. I completely agree about prime. KLLM at the end of your lease contract you buy the title for $1. Yes ONE. So you can actually own the truck in the end. They are the only company that I found where you can actually own a truck.
@charlessellars78715 жыл бұрын
Prime also does have a 1$ pay off lease
@owenvortman97313 жыл бұрын
Trucking for 23 years and this man is correct trucking companies play dirty. I can't think of one mega carrier that pays fair
@truckertruthetrutrucker53575 жыл бұрын
Thank you boss. I’m starting fresh in the industry starting February and after watching your vids and rich I feel I will be having a much better start.
@i2nupman5 жыл бұрын
Lease programs differ wildly and despite "conventional wisdom" there are some good lease purchase programs out there. I did the LP route with a great company and completed the LP; I now own the truck. Pay-wise, I made roughly what a company driver would make while building equity in the truck (paying off the lease). It took 4 years of hard work but the pay is now a good 3x what a company driver would make. Just like any other contract, read it and understand it BEFORE signing. One key provision was I had to have a true "Walk Away" lease and that's what I got. I won't name the company because the typical uniformed hater while brand me a schill. I will just say it was a smaller size company.
@OnlyBanzho5 жыл бұрын
As a young driver for 3 years, all you want in the industry is a truck that goes over 70. Period. Everything else is greed and let me tell you the company is way more greedy than you’ll ever be.
@ashton355 жыл бұрын
Looks like I shouldn't bother huh
@tokeypokey4 жыл бұрын
Compound turbo 3406 in a glider. It'll pass the guys doing 70 effortlessly just gotta watch for smokeys
@raymellon95723 жыл бұрын
I've got just over 1 year of experience. Yesterday someone tried to convince me to leave my company and lease from his company. When he wouldn't hear me when I said that I don't think 1 year is enough experience for me to have owner responsibilities, I knew I would never work there.
@semiretired60335 жыл бұрын
'The Never Never Plans" !! First time I heard that was back in the late 90's with a carrier you probably know well from Simcoe Ontario B.R.Smith. I was a company driver and they had a whole bunch of "Lease Operators" and that's what the company drivers called those lease plans.Nice video Dave,my heart broke in two when you told the story about that family heating frozen dinners on their truck engine.I could imagine how horrible the father/ husband of that family must of felt not being able to properly feed his family.Its a crime to rob a hard working man from the ability to provide for his family, especially in an industry that has plenty of work and money but lacks respect for the men and women that do all the hard work and deserve to GET PAID for it..Shameful!! You were very kind to stop and then buy them a meal, you have something these carriers don't have.....a Heart. thank you Dave.
@SmartTrucking5 жыл бұрын
Thanks for writing in! Last I heard Smith had gone broke again, is that the case? Dave
@semiretired60335 жыл бұрын
Smart Trucking Dave I left that sinking ship in 2000. I know that they were bought by Fastfrate ( I would see their trucks parked in the Fastfrate Lachine yard)and that they still struggled even after the merger.I don’t know what’s up with them now but I do sometimes see a BR Smith truck on the 401 on my Montreal-Toronto runs on the weekends .
@jennycraig994 жыл бұрын
john smith kept his yards they were never part of the bankrupcy,fastfrate used them and smith started selling them off.in around feb of 2018 fastfrate closed the steel divison down as most of the trucks and trailers were junk.smith still has his walsh yard and rents it out to pride trucking
@Jay-dn9lr4 жыл бұрын
Pride group Logistics in fort Erie
@waltwynn-sandiegonorthcoun84755 жыл бұрын
I have heard these horror stories from ex-lease operators, too!
@evil_me5 жыл бұрын
After driving for over 15 years, and getting ruined in a divorce my credit was not enough to get a loan, I am with a small company that I have been driving for for years, and I leased from them. I got a slightly used glider(so no emissions bs) at a bit below market value, 2 years lease to own, and a warranty on my engine. My lease is a no obligation walk away lease (if it comes to that) It might be because its a small 30 unit company but I have honestly made tons more money and am loving it. I spent months researching this lease and honestly it worked out for me exactly the same as if I could get a loan. Plus I was a ase diesel master tech so i do almost all of my own repairs.
@milleniumann284 жыл бұрын
If you were ase master certed and you drive the truck yourself why in the world would you be considering a lease. First I don’t know your skill level but according to ase you should be able to bring any truck back to life.. I do it all the time find 4-10k trucks with engine issues and fix them for pennies. Another issue is trucking is declining but tech jobs are booming. When I left the dealer I was making 30 an hour with plenty of overtime in 2008, same is true today. Techs are everywhere but actual diesel mechanics that can do everything wheel to wheel you would be swimming in money staying on that side of things, of course if your health will allow it. Good luck maybe you will change your mind it will take 3 running tractors to make the same money a service truck can make if your good and build good relationships😉
@thomaskirkpatrick40313 жыл бұрын
Everyone that's thinking about getting into the industry should have to sit down and have a long talk with someone like Dave, before they sign anything.
@SmartTrucking3 жыл бұрын
I've just seen so many guys lose everything in these crooked deals!
@johnajax6315 жыл бұрын
Story never changes those with the least are always the first to be taken advantage of the most. I personally put a lot of blame on easy credit a lot of people lust after no money down business opportunities the words are right in front of their eyes, no money-no opportunities.
@Shadowfax-19805 жыл бұрын
Sounds like a good idea when starting out in trucking is to make friends with an experienced trucker who's seen it all and can give tips as well as warnings.
@alpham7775 жыл бұрын
My bit of golden advice is if your carrier wants you to do something and ether your not being payed for it or it just does not sound right just say no and start looking for another job. The amount of free labor some truckers are willing to provide just astonished me. Drivers willing to sleep at the shipper to not start their clock in the morning till they are loaded, lumping freight for free, fueling up in the morning during their pretrip log time to save a few minutes. List is endless most of it is illegal and make no one any more money other than the company. If you feel like you need to work off the clock to get loaded etc in order to make money then your company is simply not paying enough and why pay you more when you are doing it for free.
@joshuac22245 жыл бұрын
So very true. For a lot of drivers it's business as usual, they don't seem to understand if your not at home you need to be getting paid for it.
@SmartTrucking5 жыл бұрын
Exactly right! Dave
@JASONHJEFFERSON5 жыл бұрын
when my company says the company has overnight parking i say so what i stay where i want to. and ask them go sleep in your car in the parking lot so your not late to work
@seanwarren93575 жыл бұрын
I just left a company because they were obviously working me over for their benefit with little to nothing more than promise of a better future. It's hard to walk away from work. Moreso when other people count on you, but if you know the truth of a situation and it is like that, it's our duty to walk away, and not tomorrow but now. Sad to say but it's the harsh reality. Every corporate entity is hunting for something for nothing, and if you give it to them, their mindless drones will work you over for God knows why... Disgusting, really.
@aarond985 жыл бұрын
Up voted. Your comment should be #1.
@simplespeed845 жыл бұрын
I started with Prime and leased a truck with a walk away contract. I leased it knowing I did not plan to finish the lease and own a truck through them. I paid all the overhead costs and a grossed 72k to myself my first year. I only left to go regional and then eventually local. Great training, great equipment and i often recommend prime to new drivers. Just gotta know when to turn down a load and explain why to your dispatch.
@RESET17765 жыл бұрын
I was one of the installers for the GPS tracking systems Prime put in their low credit specials. These poor guys are just sold down the river with a two year rig on a four year lease. Yet they wonder why there's a true drivers shortage.
@janelawrence5985 жыл бұрын
Thank you . You say things just right ! You know how it is . To many ( kids ) are driving with extreme danger to meet a deadline . As you know ...the receiver does not care . I took your advice over the years and did NOT SIGN a LEASE or ( CO OP ) Fed ex comes to mind ...I am a 30 year driver and quitting ASAP only because of the race truck drivers that we have now . THEY ARE DANGEROUS !
@conleycroom88133 жыл бұрын
I am so glad I landed on your videos. I've been driving for 26 years and have just under 3 million miles thanks to many years on the alcan highway. I remember all this stuff from the old timers who taught me about trucking and I am grinning through every video you make. Keep them stories coming, the next generation of truckers need to here your wisdom.
@SmartTrucking3 жыл бұрын
Thanks for watching Conley! Appreciate it!
@rockytheexpert30084 жыл бұрын
I didn’t buy my first truck until 12 years in the industry so glad I learned first
@JGomez_545 жыл бұрын
I almost fell for the trap. Thank you so much for being honest and telling us how it really is.
@masrymolhed75794 жыл бұрын
I am new in trucking and your video saved me from falling into this trap Thank you very much for your wisdom and advice
@dgrc67435 жыл бұрын
I can't believe I used to ignore your videos. Thanks for al your content. As a soon to be CDL holder, I'm glad I found your videos.
@mr.mikeaz15 жыл бұрын
Been retired for 12yrs now before all the cell phones and GPS. I can't believe how down its going, I enjoyed it started in 1970 . Now it's just playing music and seeing the states as a tourist love it. I've seen a lot of trucks retired to become campers. Good luck.
@SmartTrucking5 жыл бұрын
Thanks Mr. Mike, you too! Dave
@mr.mikeaz15 жыл бұрын
@@SmartTrucking I have a few truckin driving songs on KZfaq and you could learn the banjo in one day right in your sleeper great for any stress have a safe ride. Just click my picture.
@ElizabethF22225 жыл бұрын
PS Dave speaks the truth. I was at Prime. They make leasing sound wonderful, but, trust me, it is not. Tons of company lease drivers owe Prime on their paychecks!
@killer26005 жыл бұрын
So many videos on youtube about his very thing and still today Prime pushes the lease to new rookies and they swallow it up with eyes wide open. I ALWAYS have steered lease curious drivers away from leasing with a carrier and even still a few have to learn what I have taught them the hard way.
@Shadow0fd3ath244 жыл бұрын
Theres no way in hell you should owe more than 30%pay for lease and you better be making 2x as much as a company guy for it to be that high
@michaelboyle95123 жыл бұрын
The problem with being a long term company driver is I dont want 6 days on 1 day off for the rest of my life. That's a terrible deal.
@justinpoland49215 жыл бұрын
few thoughts: 1. Most companies operate just like Dave says, they make money on taking money out of your settlement and using it to pay for their company drivers mistakes!!! 2. IF you do consider a lease purchase plan, make sure it is one with 3 years or less and a minimal to non existent balloon payment 3. Realize that as a lease operator, you are making a commitment to stay out on the road 95% of the time until you own the truck 4. understand the correlation between fixed and variable costs and your break even point. 5. READ the fine print on your contract!!! Avoid the 4 and 5 year leases, don’t lease a new truck, avoid the programs with “variable mileage” charges which basically limit you to 2000 miles a week or you pay through the nose, and only lease from a company that gives you 100% of the FSC and has generous fuel discounts. Companies to avoid are Prime, CR England, Western Express, and Roehl.
@jojobeansie31145 жыл бұрын
Finally someone who is capable of explaining who is who and why. Thank you sir and bravo.
@atharali9645 жыл бұрын
Dave..Thanks for putting out Valuable n informative videos for all those who are new, naive or plain gullible. I happened to be in each of those category once before i joined that exact company not knowing much and fell into trap of independent lease operator grand scheme. Lucky for me and thanks to my dispatcher, i ran hard all year long and never got in debt, made some money but never enough to own the truck at end of lease contract as i dreamed once. Indeed, it was quite a learning experience until i figured out what a great scheme it really was. Stay far away from lease operations from this or any similar trucking companies. Leasing and running under same company is synonymous to putting all your eggs in same basket. All they have to do is assign crapy loads for short period of time and you'll find yourself in financial ruins very soon, yet under obligation to pay every nickle n dime for all expense incurred. This is just my own experience and it maybe different from others who may have found success with success leasing@Primeinc. Good Luck.
@derekmbradford12625 жыл бұрын
I believe this man speaks the truth. I can handle being a company driver. I can't however handle the thought of being too broke to eat Thanks for your wisdom Smart trucker
@jimc88025 жыл бұрын
I am a Prime lease operator. I would not say it is perfect but it is not as bad as you and other people make it out to be. It’s what you make it to be. A lot of people come do it who have no business doing it. They lack the knowledge to even operate the truck let alone make a lease work so they make no money. I was a company driver for 13 years and I can say I make more money leasing then I ever did company. Do I have down weeks. Yes indeed I do. Like last week when there was a big storm I didn’t make much. For the most part I do good though. It’s what you make of it. I’m not under the illusion that I’m a true owner operator but I do enjoy the little bit of more freedom and responsibility that I do have. It’s not for everyone though and they do promote it to people that have no business doing it. But in the end it is they’re choice to do it and some do make it
@malindadickerson14605 жыл бұрын
I'm new to trucking so I'm just asking not giving an opinion. It seems to me you may be getting paid more because the company is avoiding liability for any accidents you might have. What do you think.
@thisguy18875 жыл бұрын
I leased on to a company and was able to take the truck when I left. I was given the power of attorney over the truck and all the paperwork I needed to get a new tag and insurance. Got my llc and been running under a friend of mine authority. My truck is a 2020 freight liner, I got it with zero miles on it. My down payment was 2,700k.... and I only stayed with the company I got the truck from for a month
@MrJoshuaAtwood5 жыл бұрын
You can tell this guy knows what he’s talking about
@Pontiacman19645 жыл бұрын
I had a Dart driver show me his pay statement back around 1996 in a Tennessee truck stop. I'll never forget that. His pay after all the deductions was $80 for the week! Right then I decided that I'd never be a lease operator.
@theonlyconstantischange1235 жыл бұрын
Wow
@timengland36495 жыл бұрын
My Uncle used to make a great roast on the engine. He had a pot with a good sealing lid like a small pressure cooker. @ noon he would throw in the roast and veggies and use bailing wire to secure it. You should have seen the looks he got when he pulled into the truckstop in the evening. After he parked drivers showed up like Mr. Smith in the Matrix to see where the smell was coming from.
@phabulousfabs52875 жыл бұрын
Dave , not many people out there are willing to help and share information as you do. A real eye opener. Thank you for this video and thank God I watched it.
@SunnyG-it8bt5 жыл бұрын
I started working for a small fleet a couple of years ago family owned, best choice I’ve ever made, recently just purchased a Kenworth T680 w Cummings. -SunnyLonghaul (REEFER Runnin on Interstate 40😤)
@thomaskirkpatrick40313 жыл бұрын
I've heard so many stories just like Dominic's, this is the reason I always tell new drivers stay away from a lease purchase.
@djamesgraham5 жыл бұрын
I am not a trucker but love learning about this business- like most men, I dreamt of driving a big rig around North America like my Uncle did. This is great advice based on how you explained how these corporate sharks work- lesson for trucker and non trucker alike- Read the contract and always pay the 500 bucks to have another lawyer review when it is this big!
@SmartTrucking5 жыл бұрын
Exactly! Dave
@simplespeed845 жыл бұрын
Smart idea!
@allaboutthejuice5195 жыл бұрын
I used to think different but you are spot on. RUN!. As a matter of fact run from Trucking unless you 1000% want to do the job.
@markraven73165 жыл бұрын
Great advice, love your videos. If you are new... don't do anything that will tie you to your first job. You will change jobs many times over your career especially in the beginning.
@alexsierra3625 жыл бұрын
Not all L/P PROGRAMS are bad!!! If you can find the right company that will actually allow to own the truck you can be successful. I’m working on 2nd lease. And no I don’t haul freight there’s no money in freight. $1/ mile is not good money and until drivers stop taking these cheap loads rates will stay the same but then brokers will just give those loads to the mega carriers to have their recent grads haul it at .30/ mile. I agree with what he says 99% but to say all L/P’s are the same is not true. Read read read contracts. Don’t accept balloon payments. Last payment is last Payment for me. Take the truck to a dealer and have them dyno it before agreeing to buy, lease the truck. Ask for freebies/ warranties. I get all new rubber if used truck and free fill up and warranty expired buy an extension. If being an O/O is your dream and don’t have the credit or money. And have experience trucking than do it. Also get a trucking accountant to keep your business expenses in order.
@jdwonderfultrucking56085 жыл бұрын
I love you man ya got great awesome knowledge about the trucking game!! A lot of these KZfaq channels about trucking!! Think they know it all!! But they don’t I’m always listen to your advice!!
@SmartTrucking5 жыл бұрын
Thanks! Dave
@winnerwinner91944 жыл бұрын
👍
@davidgeary36545 жыл бұрын
People also have to remember not to run like a company driver waiting for dispatch and taking the first thing that gets your wheels moving. Pick your own loads off the load board.
@kwamedindavis98405 жыл бұрын
Thanx for the wise advice. We need good role models like you. Please make more vids. Thanx again.
@SmartTrucking5 жыл бұрын
Thank you! Dave
@FirestormMk34 жыл бұрын
Solid advice in ANY industry! Companies always want to exploit labor as much as possible. They are never looking out for you, they are looking out for the CEO and shareholders alone, and looking out for them means looking for what they can take from you.
@mcnerdyfamilyaxolotladvent19465 жыл бұрын
I'm not a trucker, however I love your Channel. You're a great KZfaqr and you're very insightful, keep it up
@SmartTrucking5 жыл бұрын
Appreciate it! Thanks! Dave
@terrycopeland18045 жыл бұрын
Dave, you are so right! I met a fellow when I lived in florida back in the 80's that had leased a truck from a company that I can't remember the name , they were a florida trucking company. Well he was complaining that they weren't keeping the truck busy and he didn't know how long he was going to be able to afford it. As I remember he eventually lost the truck. That taught me just how shady trucking companies are. To me company driving is no picnic either.
@Adam-ie3cf5 жыл бұрын
Your spot on. I got double talked into a lease that I didn't realize was bound to a carrier. Worst month of my life.
@johnwebsterification5 жыл бұрын
The company mentioned in your story used to stock truck stops with free cassette tapes for their drivers. They pushed the fact that the only way to really make money was to maximize fuel efficiency. Now you can save money for sure by improving your consumption but it was obvious from these tapes that this was the only money they were making.... the few hundred saved by going 55mph. I've since known drivers who got caught in their web. Paychecks that gross several thousand dollars squeezed down to sometimes negative numbers.
@lisacrawford10345 жыл бұрын
I love this guy he very smart and knowledgeable and great wisdom :) I'm considering get my CDL to drive trucks. Great advice
@Jamescapcutedits5 жыл бұрын
This gentlemen is so right about this I'm going thru it at dart right now i pay for everything u have the right to accept loads and rejected loads turn down loads if u want to
@kalebsut3 жыл бұрын
I just met this prime flatbedder today picking up at Sierra pac in Richfield. Anyway this homie had been driving for a month and had leased a truck right after training, those effin trainers didn't even teach him how to fold up tarps or properly strap down his lumber. Scary, told him he was gonna lose his tarps the way he had it on there... hope he makes it
@brianwarner91405 жыл бұрын
I am thinking of changing careers and going otr. Thanks for your time and your valuable opinion. You are giving me all the right tools so i can make informed decisions.
@WalkerWayne285 жыл бұрын
I worked for New Prime Inc. back in 2010. I was a leased O/O after about 6 months the dispatcher had told me that I was not doing good so he basically fired me. Then he tells me I need to ride with another O/O to learn the business. I told him no. He comes back and says you owe us $4,000 for tires. I told him nope you fired me you broke contract. Never heard from them again.
@SmartTrucking5 жыл бұрын
Glad you won that one! Friggin Prime!
@zetafunction79865 жыл бұрын
I am thinking of getting my class A cdl in a few months and your advice is a lifesaver. thank you.
@dennisisthedroningsmalley98075 жыл бұрын
Flat out wrong. Prime was a great experience and profitable for me. I was both a company driver and lease operator. I had more freedom leasing and made more money. The key is to complete the lease. The revenue at the end of lease was significant. Prime fights your battles for you; gets maintenance disputes resolved, lumping fees reimbursed, discounts on tires and fuel, etc. They keep you moving with better than average freight rates. Your fleet manager is the key. Her pay is dependent on your performance. By the way, it is illegal for a trucking company to lease you the equipment. It has to be a separate entity. Also as a lease operator, you must by law, have the option of turning down loads. There are many lease options for owning your own truck including buying it from Prime or bringing your own. Also, their facilities are great; on campus day care, Dr’s office, accounting services, cafeterias, gymnasium lounges, theaters, well equipped stores, detailing shop, embroidery shop, the list goes on. I always enjoyed taking my time off there. Prime inc was a great family to me. Sure, you can lose money only if you don’t want to drive. Did I turn down loads? Yes; $.76/mi out of Florida for 1800 miles or any trip thru Washington DC. You just have to understand the system and have a goal. There’s one guy who ended up buying his first leased truck and continuing to drive it for Prime for the next 20 years. He bought his next new truck with cash continuing with prime. That’s a true owner operator who has excellent income under the umbrella of a great company. Why did I drive for Prime? Only because they bought out the company that I was driving for. I stayed with them for the next ten years until I retired with money in the bank.
@mrc15395 жыл бұрын
Dennis Smalley , you must be a paid recruiter for Prime , and still believe in Sant Clause.
@truckinon18715 жыл бұрын
Dennis Smalley quick question. Do you get to keep the truck at the end of the lease.
@nertz45795 жыл бұрын
Well said. There a plenty of people who have done good at Prime. Yes some haven't but that's trucking.
@triptriplett42855 жыл бұрын
Very well put🙂👍 I like the fact you mentioned independent & independent contractor. I ran independent for years pulling flatbed on the spot market then I found a pretty sweet deal to work as a independent contractor pulling food grade tanks I run under my own authority & carry unowned trailer insurance, however I am contracted to a food grade carrier. It worked out so well I sold my flatbed. Very knowledgeable, great advice for the rookies.
@ikstrucking32894 жыл бұрын
THANK YOU FOR TELLING PEOPLE THE TRUTH! BLESS YOU!!!!
@CARLITOTABB0929 Жыл бұрын
HEY, I JUST WANT TO SAY YOUR A FAIR AND HONEST MAN. I APPRECIATE YOUR INTEGRITY.
@easystreet80655 жыл бұрын
I personally know several guys that did complete Lease programs. WTI is a walk away lease. Hundreds of guys have completed it.
@TheAncientOneOfDays5 жыл бұрын
All good points and all should know and understand these points. I see loads of drivers talking about how they "own" stuff... I own a toaster, that I can take with me to any hotel, break it, toss it - why? - because I paid for it in whole and I own it. Leasing is a glorified Rent deal... which doesn't terminate into ownership status.
@SmartTrucking5 жыл бұрын
Good choices!
@brad69205 жыл бұрын
Been there, done that with FedEx Ground in the early nineties. Glad I finally got out!
@hersh62165 жыл бұрын
Thank you very much for your clip. It helped me make my decision to walk after 2 years. I was just like "Dominic" One of the best decisions I've ever made! It was a 5 year leasing. I was a super wet behind my ears, and got to find out the were just "brokers" now a company driver for another company in Ontario. Happier now!! Thank you again for your informative clips! Back on the road!!
@ksolo19605 жыл бұрын
Great video and advice Dave! I hope all young drivers are watching and learning! 🤙🤙
@SmartTrucking5 жыл бұрын
Thank you! Dave
@jorgegaytan30125 жыл бұрын
The world needs people like Dave, blessings..
@curbstomp31265 жыл бұрын
I'm hauling water in oil field making $26.50hr I'm pretty happy were I'm at.
@SmartTrucking5 жыл бұрын
Yup, that sounds good to me!
@skipstreet5 жыл бұрын
Are you in ND or TX?
@stretch2735 жыл бұрын
Is oil field like regional it's just oil field regional? Or more like OTR?
@No-km6zr5 жыл бұрын
Class A or B?
@kevinlewis67104 жыл бұрын
How to get started there? What state? Thanks
@FYAHMONKEYGAMING5 жыл бұрын
It may be luck but I consider me blessed because I was "right there 👌" to sign a contract with prime. Fortunately my driving instructor recommended me to a small company out of the school. Turns out even better than I expected. I enjoy your videos though kind sir. I'm subscribing cuz I wanna be successful in this trucking field. I just started driving 1 month now and it's great
@jerrycoggin94345 жыл бұрын
I remember a company called Midwest Distribution who may have been the originators of the never never plan. Late 70s. They were sued by the goverment and went out of business if I remember correctly. Jail for some possibly. Heard a rumor that Prime was the 2nd coming of Midwest Distribution. Same ownership with lessons learned. Have no idea if it's true.
@Ez-ko1gz5 жыл бұрын
This the very best video I've ever seen on KZfaq thanks again Dave I was thinking about leasing my truck on a company but your video has me thinking twice about that I've learned even driver's are very dirty believe none of what you hear and half what you see is what my parents always told growing up I started a company driver,then leased on then got my own athority and the money makes all the difference company you work hard to make them rich just like lease driver's true owner operator makes mistakes along the way but you learn very fast how to control the cost and income of you business or drown