Commercial Transporters- Got a few questions

[Dkevdog]

I've been recently doing some local moving of fifth wheel trailers for a neighbor who owns a towing company and doesn't want to deal with it. I know it's probably not legal because I don't have the additional insurance and bonds and all the necessary crap, But I was wondering what is really necessary to do this on a for hire basis. I remember reading in a previous thread somewhere about a member who works for Jet Transport, and I think a couple of other guys are out there moving RV's as well. I've even gone so far as contemplating a larger truck to do it with (medium duty). Anyone with any comments or suggestions feel free to fling 'em over. Specifically those who are currently involved in it.



Kev

 

[KB0OU]

To do this legally you need to operate under a DOT authority.

You can get this yourself but it is not cheap.

You need Trucking Insurance, Load Insurance, NonTrucking Insurance.

I have my truck leased to Bennet International Group. They do the DOT authority, the Trucking insurance, I carry the NonTrucking ( also called BobTail insurance)



I also have an authority I can haul under here in Missouri and have my own Drive Away tag from Missouri to put on trailers when I need to do so.



The Drive Away tag from Bennett is from Georgia as the home office is in Georgia.



My Missouri Drive Away tag is only $45. 00/year so I keep it in case I want to use it.



There are companies that will set you up with DOT and with permits for all states and Canada as you need them, you can find them on the internet.



Hope I answered some of your questions. You can email me if you need more info.



John

 

[MikeH]

Commercial Hauling

John is right about all the insurance. It is a significant cost factor. Add pass. ins. if you want anyone riding along and physical damage for your truck. You also need single state authority permits for about 40 states and various other transit permits to tow in some of the others. Then since you are operating commercial, you get to keep log books and comply with hours of service regulations. Your truck will need a DOT inspection. It's like a never ending list of things to comply with.



Oh yea, DOT physical exam and random drug testing. Best thing to do is hook up with a company and they will help/guide you through the whole process. I'm hauling for Morgan and they have been very good to work with.



Good luck. MikeH