If one of your resolutions this year is to become a successful Owner Operator in 2023, there are several steps to make your dream come to fruition. Owning and operating your own trucking business can be a rewarding way to make a living, but it also comes with challenges. With the right strategies, however, you can make it work for you. Here are some tips to help you get started on becoming a successful Owner Operator at Northwest:
Research the Trucking Industry
It’s important to understand the industry you’re entering. Research Northwest the regulations and requirements for operating, and the markets and our customers you’ll be serving. This will help you determine the best approach for your own business. All of this info can be found on our website!
Ensure Your Truck Fits the Requirements
Having a reliable, fuel-efficient truck with the correct capacity will ensure that you are able to meet our customers’ needs and complete jobs quickly and efficiently. Additionally, the right truck will ensure that you are able to comply with all applicable safety regulations, helping to protect both yourself and our customers. At Northwest Tank Lines, we require trucks to be equipped with 500hp, have a steer axle rating of 12,000lbs and a rear end rating of 40,000lbs.
Check your Experience!
The minimum requirements to be an Owner Operator at Northwest include:
- A 5 year class 1 license
- 3 years bulk fluids hauling experience (or equivalent)
- 1 year Super B experience
If you’re interested in being closer to the business owner side, bring on truck units, and Northwest will assist in hiring the drivers!
Ensure Your Have the Right Equipment – Including a Wet Kit
When bringing a tractor to Northwest Tank Lines, pumps must be in good working condition and designed for continuous flow. We require pumps to have a flow rate of 18-24 gallons per minute and hydraulic hoses must have a pressure rating of 3500 psi. If you don’t have a wet kit, not to worry! We offer a Wet Kit Program for any Owner Operator that does not have one themselves. Please connect with us to find out how you can be part of our Wet Kit Program.
Owner Operators are required to use certain equipment in order to meet our safety and quality standards. This includes automatic positive air shutoff, a wet kit, a two-way radio, and tire chains. At Northwest, we perform a truck inspection before hiring to ensure that the equipment is in good working order. Be sure you do a thorough check of your truck, from your headlights and mirror, to your wipers, tires, and everything in between.
By following these tips, you will be well on your way to becoming a successful trucking Owner Operator in 2023. Apply to be an Owner operator with Northwest Tank Lines today and receive the professional support you need to maximize your success and enjoy a rewarding career!