How This 22-Year-Old Is Killing It in Bulk Trucking With 2 Show Quality Rigs

May 08, 2023 at 11:22 AM CST + 30 - 6
Posted by a private BulkLoads.com member.	Posted by a private BulkLoads.com member. This episode was recorded at the Mid-America Truck Show. Jared brings on Colt Sharp with Sharp Farms LLC to discuss Colt's success in the bulk industry and the secret to being so successful at 22 years old! Colt talks about the challenges he's faced, the lessons he's learned, and how he has 2 show quality rigs. Colt takes the opportunity to call out older bulk haulers and gives them a challenge. Click Here to Listen on BulkLoads Click Here to Listen/Subscribe on Apple Click Here to Listen/Subscibe on Spotify Click Here to Listen/Subscribe on Google Click Here to Watch on YouTube

Replied on Tue, May 09, 2023 at 07:44 AM CST + 6 - 1
Posted by a private BulkLoads.com member.	Posted by a private BulkLoads.com member. Probably because it says farms on his truck. Can use all the free farmer money for his truck. To me if you are "farms" you shouldn't be able to haul commercially.

Replied on Tue, May 09, 2023 at 08:03 AM CST + 1 - 1
Posted by a private BulkLoads.com member.	Posted by a private BulkLoads.com member. What a great episode. I will listen to this over and over. I was that 22 year old kid as well. My dad always told me to find the old men and they will teach you. They did and always was a proud trucker! Keep up the great work.

Replied on Tue, May 09, 2023 at 08:03 AM CST + 1 - 1
Posted by a private BulkLoads.com member.	Posted by a private BulkLoads.com member. Quote: "Probably because it says farms on his truck. Can use all the free farmer money for his truck. To me if you are "farms" you shouldn't be able to haul commercially. " Free Farmer money? There are USDA Loan programs avaliable to everyone that is a great way to run your business. The word "Farm" is just that. A word for his business.

Replied on Tue, May 09, 2023 at 08:54 AM CST + 1 - 1
Posted by a private BulkLoads.com member.	Posted by a private BulkLoads.com member. Free money hahahahah

Replied on Tue, May 09, 2023 at 08:55 AM CST + 10
Posted by a private BulkLoads.com member.	Posted by a private BulkLoads.com member. Just because he has 2 show quality trucks does not mean he is successful. Did the farm help him get started? What about the guys that started out with nothing? No mommy daddy money just a will to succeed using every tool available. There are so many so called successful people that were handed the keys to get started. Not bashing on this guy but when I see "Farm" on the side of a truck and him only being 22 well the bells go off. I could have show quality equipment to if I wanted to go into debt for 350K, but I'm in this to make a living not run around making people think I'm successful buy having show quality equipment. And I definatly don't need a 22 year old telling me how to be successful in the bulk sector where I have weathered the storms of 28 years of market fluctuations, fuel prices, and just crappy freight rates!

Replied on Tue, May 09, 2023 at 08:55 AM CST

+ 10

Posted by a private BulkLoads.com member.

Just because he has 2 show quality trucks does not mean he is successful. Did the farm help him get started? What about the guys that started out with nothing? No mommy daddy money just a will to succeed using every tool available. There are so many so called successful people that were handed the keys to get started. Not bashing on this guy but when I see "Farm" on the side of a truck and him only being 22 well the bells go off. I could have show quality equipment to if I wanted to go into debt for 350K, but I'm in this to make a living not run around making people think I'm successful buy having show quality equipment. And I definatly don't need a 22 year old telling me how to be successful in the bulk sector where I have weathered the storms of 28 years of market fluctuations, fuel prices, and just crappy freight rates!

Replied on Tue, May 09, 2023 at 09:19 AM CST + 2 - 1
Posted by a private BulkLoads.com member.	Posted by a private BulkLoads.com member. Quote: "Probably because it says farms on his truck. Can use all the free farmer money for his truck. To me if you are "farms" you shouldn't be able to haul commercially. " If they want to keep the market over saturated with trucks to suppress rates, then it’s most important that the illusion of prosperity be maintained, they need you to believe ( Just like the X Files), otherwise folks might start leaving and then rates would go up, just think how terrible it would be if truckers got paid for all hours worked?

Replied on Tue, May 09, 2023 at 09:19 AM CST

+ 2 - 1

Posted by a private BulkLoads.com member.

Quote: "Probably because it says farms on his truck. Can use all the free farmer money for his truck. To me if you are "farms" you shouldn't be able to haul commercially. "

If they want to keep the market over saturated with trucks to suppress rates, then it’s most important that the illusion of prosperity be maintained, they need you to believe ( Just like the X Files), otherwise folks might start leaving and then rates would go up, just think how terrible it would be if truckers got paid for all hours worked?

Replied on Tue, May 09, 2023 at 12:17 PM CST + 3
Posted by a private BulkLoads.com member.	Posted by a private BulkLoads.com member. Quote: "If they want to keep the market over saturated with trucks to suppress rates, then it’s most important that the illusion of prosperity be maintained, they need you to believe ( Just like the X Files), otherwise folks might start leaving and then rates would go up, just think how terrible it would be if truckers got paid for all hours worked?" I was just talking about this the other day. How we are being shown these "success" stories to keep us in the current market, when we all feel how awful it is (Between fuel, operating costs, being told our worth by shippers & brokers alike, carriers fighting over loads & driving down freight rates, etc). Proud of ya kid for being successful at 22 years of age. There were some red-flags about why you were given this air-time, but I don't have any interest in stealing thunder. This industry needs young blood. Guys & gals who are chasing the green like the rest of us.

Replied on Tue, May 09, 2023 at 12:17 PM CST

+ 3

Posted by a private BulkLoads.com member.

Quote: "If they want to keep the market over saturated with trucks to suppress rates, then it’s most important that the illusion of prosperity be maintained, they need you to believe ( Just like the X Files), otherwise folks might start leaving and then rates would go up, just think how terrible it would be if truckers got paid for all hours worked?"

I was just talking about this the other day. How we are being shown these "success" stories to keep us in the current market, when we all feel how awful it is (Between fuel, operating costs, being told our worth by shippers & brokers alike, carriers fighting over loads & driving down freight rates, etc). Proud of ya kid for being successful at 22 years of age. There were some red-flags about why you were given this air-time, but I don't have any interest in stealing thunder. This industry needs young blood. Guys & gals who are chasing the green like the rest of us.

Replied on Wed, May 10, 2023 at 07:15 AM CST + 3
Posted by a private BulkLoads.com member.	Posted by a private BulkLoads.com member. I'll take his "challenge". 32 hours straight? Never BROADCAST such a thing on the WORLD WIDE WEB! Go about your business and keep your head down. I also cringe at the farm name. Fair or not, there's stereotype that goes with it.

Replied on Thu, May 11, 2023 at 10:04 AM CST + 5 - 1
Posted by a private BulkLoads.com member.	Posted by a private BulkLoads.com member. If you listen to the beginning of the podcast the 22 year old admits to having zero personal debt as he talks about a friend of his that can’t make payments on his pickup truck worth 85k, while he still owes 75k on a big truck, so if you can’t move out of mom and dads or even make a payment on a pickup in the case of his friend, how are they ever going to start a family and pay a mortgage? Or save for retirement so their not a burden on society? Yet he is being propelled to rock star status? The bar of success seems to have been lowered compared to previous generations that had to do all of the above.

Replied on Thu, May 11, 2023 at 10:04 AM CST

+ 5 - 1

Posted by a private BulkLoads.com member.

If you listen to the beginning of the podcast the 22 year old admits to having zero personal debt as he talks about a friend of his that can’t make payments on his pickup truck worth 85k, while he still owes 75k on a big truck, so if you can’t move out of mom and dads or even make a payment on a pickup in the case of his friend, how are they ever going to start a family and pay a mortgage? Or save for retirement so their not a burden on society? Yet he is being propelled to rock star status? The bar of success seems to have been lowered compared to previous generations that had to do all of the above.

Replied on Thu, May 11, 2023 at 12:09 PM CST + 2
Posted by a private BulkLoads.com member.	Posted by a private BulkLoads.com member. Quote: "If you listen to the beginning of the podcast the 22 year old admits to having zero personal debt as he talks about a friend of his that can’t make payments on his pickup truck worth 85k, while he still owes 75k on a big truck, so if you can’t move out of mom and dads or even make a payment on a pickup in the case of his friend, how are they ever going to start a family and pay a mortgage? Or save for retirement so their not a burden on society? Yet he is being propelled to rock star status? The bar of success seems to have been lowered compared to previous generations that had to do all of the above." Not knowing the whole story, I'd say he's still in a better position then his buddy. I know people that put off a family etc. and worked hard to put themselves in a better financial position first. I bought my first truck in November of 1993. The same month our first child was born. It wasn't easy but I was determined. I'm still married to the same woman and still doing business some of the same people I started with. Plenty of mistakes a long the way. Live and learn.

Replied on Thu, May 11, 2023 at 12:09 PM CST

+ 2

Posted by a private BulkLoads.com member.

Quote: "If you listen to the beginning of the podcast the 22 year old admits to having zero personal debt as he talks about a friend of his that can’t make payments on his pickup truck worth 85k, while he still owes 75k on a big truck, so if you can’t move out of mom and dads or even make a payment on a pickup in the case of his friend, how are they ever going to start a family and pay a mortgage? Or save for retirement so their not a burden on society? Yet he is being propelled to rock star status? The bar of success seems to have been lowered compared to previous generations that had to do all of the above."

Not knowing the whole story, I'd say he's still in a better position then his buddy. I know people that put off a family etc. and worked hard to put themselves in a better financial position first. I bought my first truck in November of 1993. The same month our first child was born. It wasn't easy but I was determined. I'm still married to the same woman and still doing business some of the same people I started with. Plenty of mistakes a long the way. Live and learn.

Replied on Fri, May 12, 2023 at 09:01 PM CST + 1
Posted by a private BulkLoads.com member.	Posted by a private BulkLoads.com member. Quote: "I'll take his "challenge". 32 hours straight? Never BROADCAST such a thing on the WORLD WIDE WEB! Go about your business and keep your head down. I also cringe at the farm name. Fair or not, there's stereotype that goes with it." What are the stereotypes? There seem to be a lot of comments about the word Farm in a name. I have no familiarity with this and am curious why all reactions.

Replied on Fri, May 12, 2023 at 09:01 PM CST

+ 1

Posted by a private BulkLoads.com member.

Quote: "I'll take his "challenge". 32 hours straight? Never BROADCAST such a thing on the WORLD WIDE WEB! Go about your business and keep your head down. I also cringe at the farm name. Fair or not, there's stereotype that goes with it."

What are the stereotypes? There seem to be a lot of comments about the word Farm in a name. I have no familiarity with this and am curious why all reactions.

Replied on Sat, May 13, 2023 at 07:35 AM CST + 5
Posted by a private BulkLoads.com member.	Posted by a private BulkLoads.com member. Quote: "What are the stereotypes? There seem to be a lot of comments about the word Farm in a name. I have no familiarity with this and am curious why all reactions." Tax payer money paid to farmers through subsidies. Then the farmer gets into the "for hire" trucking market competing with the tax paying truck driver that provided the funds for the subsidies...

Replied on Sat, May 13, 2023 at 07:35 AM CST

+ 5

Posted by a private BulkLoads.com member.

Quote: "What are the stereotypes? There seem to be a lot of comments about the word Farm in a name. I have no familiarity with this and am curious why all reactions."

Tax payer money paid to farmers through subsidies. Then the farmer gets into the "for hire" trucking market competing with the tax paying truck driver that provided the funds for the subsidies...

Replied on Sat, May 13, 2023 at 11:46 AM CST + 2
Posted by a private BulkLoads.com member.	Posted by a private BulkLoads.com member. I know I don’t need to comment but I will anyway. What wasn’t mentioned is that I started at 16 with a used zero turn and $5k worth of cash to get started from my father. I then grew that business from 2016-2020 on my OWN (up to 65 weekly clients) then “sold out” to someone else because I did not like the work schedule of only being able to work from Easter to Thanksgiving. I paid my father back the 5k that he gave me in my first year of business, I also bought him a brand new zero turn when I got the money from selling out. So there’s the only “handout” all of you can hold over my head. Next I’d really like to know how to get the government subsidies as my family only owns 30 acres and we rent it to a family friend. Just because the name is “Sharp Farms” doesn’t mean we have thousands of acres and get handouts from taxpayers. After 20 years my father retired from the military, he wanted a farm of his own as he grew up on an orchard and beef farm before leaving for the military so when I went to start the LLC in 2016 “Sharp Farms” is what came to my mind first. Also for my living situation and debt situation that everyone is so eager to know. I rent a apartment with my girlfriend and we split the rent. We’re saving up for a house right now but I’m sure you’re aware the housing market is high but will eventually come down which leads us to just saving and living in a small apartment to get by for the time being. I then own a 2013 dodge that I bought when I landscaped and got a smoking deal on it since it has 200k miles on it and some issues with it. But at the time it’s what I could afford. Without living outside of my means. Which is what you all should’ve taken from the beginning of the podcast. Money management and living within your means is the biggest problem in this industry. Everyone who gets into this business sees the first dollar figure (as I did when I first started) but if you don’t know how to manage your money you’ll never make it in this industry and that’s something I’ve learned from older guys that I know who have been doing this for longer than I’ve been alive. I understand I’ll always have hate being the “New kid on the block” but if you really were so curious as to how I made it you can message me or call me and I’ll gladly explain my entire startup that I couldn’t get to do in 20-25 minutes of podcast airtime.

Replied on Sat, May 13, 2023 at 11:46 AM CST

+ 2

Posted by a private BulkLoads.com member.

I know I don’t need to comment but I will anyway. What wasn’t mentioned is that I started at 16 with a used zero turn and $5k worth of cash to get started from my father. I then grew that business from 2016-2020 on my OWN (up to 65 weekly clients) then “sold out” to someone else because I did not like the work schedule of only being able to work from Easter to Thanksgiving. I paid my father back the 5k that he gave me in my first year of business, I also bought him a brand new zero turn when I got the money from selling out. So there’s the only “handout” all of you can hold over my head. Next I’d really like to know how to get the government subsidies as my family only owns 30 acres and we rent it to a family friend. Just because the name is “Sharp Farms” doesn’t mean we have thousands of acres and get handouts from taxpayers. After 20 years my father retired from the military, he wanted a farm of his own as he grew up on an orchard and beef farm before leaving for the military so when I went to start the LLC in 2016 “Sharp Farms” is what came to my mind first. Also for my living situation and debt situation that everyone is so eager to know. I rent a apartment with my girlfriend and we split the rent. We’re saving up for a house right now but I’m sure you’re aware the housing market is high but will eventually come down which leads us to just saving and living in a small apartment to get by for the time being. I then own a 2013 dodge that I bought when I landscaped and got a smoking deal on it since it has 200k miles on it and some issues with it. But at the time it’s what I could afford. Without living outside of my means. Which is what you all should’ve taken from the beginning of the podcast. Money management and living within your means is the biggest problem in this industry. Everyone who gets into this business sees the first dollar figure (as I did when I first started) but if you don’t know how to manage your money you’ll never make it in this industry and that’s something I’ve learned from older guys that I know who have been doing this for longer than I’ve been alive. I understand I’ll always have hate being the “New kid on the block” but if you really were so curious as to how I made it you can message me or call me and I’ll gladly explain my entire startup that I couldn’t get to do in 20-25 minutes of podcast airtime.

Replied on Sun, May 14, 2023 at 04:25 PM CST + 2
Posted by a private BulkLoads.com member.	Posted by a private BulkLoads.com member. First thing.....good story, wish you the best. But your mileage reports that 70000 miles is all you run, hope that is an error, should be at least 200000 with the two trucks. you stated you dont want to lease to no one because they tend to cap you out... thats not me, i want my lease operators to do as much as the log book will let them, i have everyday fixed cost weather they are running or not. insurance is the big one, they would just as soon you run less so the exposure isnt there. GOOD LUCK.

Replied on Sun, May 14, 2023 at 04:25 PM CST

+ 2

Posted by a private BulkLoads.com member.

First thing.....good story, wish you the best. But your mileage reports that 70000 miles is all you run, hope that is an error, should be at least 200000 with the two trucks. you stated you dont want to lease to no one because they tend to cap you out... thats not me, i want my lease operators to do as much as the log book will let them, i have everyday fixed cost weather they are running or not. insurance is the big one, they would just as soon you run less so the exposure isnt there. GOOD LUCK.

Replied on Mon, May 15, 2023 at 06:48 AM CST + 1
Posted by a private BulkLoads.com member.	Posted by a private BulkLoads.com member. Quote: "I know I don’t need to comment but I will anyway. What wasn’t mentioned is that I started at 16 with a used zero turn and $5k worth of cash to get started from my father. I then grew that business from 2016-2020 on my OWN (up to 65 weekly clients) then “sold out” to someone else because I did not like the work schedule of only being able to work from Easter to Thanksgiving. I paid my father back the 5k that he gave me in my first year of business, I also bought him a brand new zero turn when I got the money from selling out. So there’s the only “handout” all of you can hold over my head. Next I’d really like to know how to get the government subsidies as my family only owns 30 acres and we rent it to a family friend. Just because the name is “Sharp Farms” doesn’t mean we have thousands of acres and get handouts from taxpayers. After 20 years my father retired from the military, he wanted a farm of his own as he grew up on an orchard and beef farm before leaving for the military so when I went to start the LLC in 2016 “Sharp Farms” is what came to my mind first. Also for my living situation and debt situation that everyone is so eager to know. I rent a apartment with my girlfriend and we split the rent. We’re saving up for a house right now but I’m sure you’re aware the housing market is high but will eventually come down which leads us to just saving and living in a small apartment to get by for the time being. I then own a 2013 dodge that I bought when I landscaped and got a smoking deal on it since it has 200k miles on it and some issues with it. But at the time it’s what I could afford. Without living outside of my means. Which is what you all should’ve taken from the beginning of the podcast. Money management and living within your means is the biggest problem in this industry. Everyone who gets into this business sees the first dollar figure (as I did when I first started) but if you don’t know how to manage your money you’ll never make it in this industry and that’s something I’ve learned from older guys that I know who have been doing this for longer than I’ve been alive. I understand I’ll always have hate being the “New kid on the block” but if you really were so curious as to how I made it you can message me or call me and I’ll gladly explain my entire startup that I couldn’t get to do in 20-25 minutes of podcast airtime." Colt, I didn't comment earlier because I hadn't listened to the podcast nor did I think anybody needed my 2 cents worth. You must forgive some of the negative comments though. Most of us have met the stereotypical (large scale) farmers son who is extremely arrogant but didn't really earn anything on his own. Much like your father I started a small farm after military service. The most I've ever farmed/custom harvested in a year was 300 acres, but I suppose someone see's FARMS in my business name they just ASSume I'm big timing it. Good luck to you!

Replied on Mon, May 15, 2023 at 06:48 AM CST

+ 1

Posted by a private BulkLoads.com member.

Quote: "I know I don’t need to comment but I will anyway. What wasn’t mentioned is that I started at 16 with a used zero turn and $5k worth of cash to get started from my father. I then grew that business from 2016-2020 on my OWN (up to 65 weekly clients) then “sold out” to someone else because I did not like the work schedule of only being able to work from Easter to Thanksgiving. I paid my father back the 5k that he gave me in my first year of business, I also bought him a brand new zero turn when I got the money from selling out. So there’s the only “handout” all of you can hold over my head. Next I’d really like to know how to get the government subsidies as my family only owns 30 acres and we rent it to a family friend. Just because the name is “Sharp Farms” doesn’t mean we have thousands of acres and get handouts from taxpayers. After 20 years my father retired from the military, he wanted a farm of his own as he grew up on an orchard and beef farm before leaving for the military so when I went to start the LLC in 2016 “Sharp Farms” is what came to my mind first. Also for my living situation and debt situation that everyone is so eager to know. I rent a apartment with my girlfriend and we split the rent. We’re saving up for a house right now but I’m sure you’re aware the housing market is high but will eventually come down which leads us to just saving and living in a small apartment to get by for the time being. I then own a 2013 dodge that I bought when I landscaped and got a smoking deal on it since it has 200k miles on it and some issues with it. But at the time it’s what I could afford. Without living outside of my means. Which is what you all should’ve taken from the beginning of the podcast. Money management and living within your means is the biggest problem in this industry. Everyone who gets into this business sees the first dollar figure (as I did when I first started) but if you don’t know how to manage your money you’ll never make it in this industry and that’s something I’ve learned from older guys that I know who have been doing this for longer than I’ve been alive. I understand I’ll always have hate being the “New kid on the block” but if you really were so curious as to how I made it you can message me or call me and I’ll gladly explain my entire startup that I couldn’t get to do in 20-25 minutes of podcast airtime."

Colt, I didn't comment earlier because I hadn't listened to the podcast nor did I think anybody needed my 2 cents worth. You must forgive some of the negative comments though. Most of us have met the stereotypical (large scale) farmers son who is extremely arrogant but didn't really earn anything on his own.

Much like your father I started a small farm after military service. The most I've ever farmed/custom harvested in a year was 300 acres, but I suppose someone see's FARMS in my business name they just ASSume I'm big timing it.

Good luck to you!

Replied on Mon, May 15, 2023 at 07:42 AM CST + 1
Posted by a private BulkLoads.com member.	Posted by a private BulkLoads.com member. I too have FARM in my name but do not receive govt. subsidies. I started the farm and trucking on my own, wife included. Like Colt said, it's money management. I know guys that get rich off of there pay, blow it, and live week to week. Or buy what they can't afford.

Replied on Mon, May 15, 2023 at 09:46 AM CST + 2 - 1
Posted by a private BulkLoads.com member.	Posted by a private BulkLoads.com member. Quote: "First thing.....good story, wish you the best. But your mileage reports that 70000 miles is all you run, hope that is an error, should be at least 200000 with the two trucks. you stated you dont want to lease to no one because they tend to cap you out... thats not me, i want my lease operators to do as much as the log book will let them, i have everyday fixed cost weather they are running or not. insurance is the big one, they would just as soon you run less so the exposure isnt there. GOOD LUCK." It’s easy to see why everyone is suspicious about a outside source of income funding the trucks, when you have 35,000 miles per power unit being reported, most folks out there couldn’t fund a normal truck on that, much less a show truck, in fact even at 70k miles per truck most wouldn’t be able to do it, but it is nice to see a young fellow take pride in his equipment.

Replied on Mon, May 15, 2023 at 09:46 AM CST

+ 2 - 1

Posted by a private BulkLoads.com member.

Quote: "First thing.....good story, wish you the best. But your mileage reports that 70000 miles is all you run, hope that is an error, should be at least 200000 with the two trucks. you stated you dont want to lease to no one because they tend to cap you out... thats not me, i want my lease operators to do as much as the log book will let them, i have everyday fixed cost weather they are running or not. insurance is the big one, they would just as soon you run less so the exposure isnt there. GOOD LUCK."

It’s easy to see why everyone is suspicious about a outside source of income funding the trucks, when you have 35,000 miles per power unit being reported, most folks out there couldn’t fund a normal truck on that, much less a show truck, in fact even at 70k miles per truck most wouldn’t be able to do it, but it is nice to see a young fellow take pride in his equipment.

Replied on Tue, May 16, 2023 at 06:49 AM CST
Posted by a private BulkLoads.com member.	Posted by a private BulkLoads.com member. Quote: "It’s easy to see why everyone is suspicious about a outside source of income funding the trucks, when you have 35,000 miles per power unit being reported, most folks out there couldn’t fund a normal truck on that, much less a show truck, in fact even at 70k miles per truck most wouldn’t be able to do it, but it is nice to see a young fellow take pride in his equipment." The second truck was bought in Oct of 22’. So mileage for both trucks has not been input into SAFER. If you listen, the green 379 was bought before the COVID “boom” at a whopping $416/Month through my local bank. I had funds when I sold my landscape company to buy the step deck which I later sold to buy my hopper which is paid for. The 389 was purchased and I have a payment on it as well as my dump trailer. But being good standing with my local bank they work with me and try to get me the best bang for my buck. At the end of the day my bills are paid, I have a rainy day fund, and my payroll checks never bounce. I wouldnt care if I only ran 15000 miles. Everyones situation is different and if youd like me to break it down to the exact penny feel free to reach out to me.

Replied on Tue, May 16, 2023 at 06:49 AM CST

Posted by a private BulkLoads.com member.

Quote: "It’s easy to see why everyone is suspicious about a outside source of income funding the trucks, when you have 35,000 miles per power unit being reported, most folks out there couldn’t fund a normal truck on that, much less a show truck, in fact even at 70k miles per truck most wouldn’t be able to do it, but it is nice to see a young fellow take pride in his equipment."

The second truck was bought in Oct of 22’. So mileage for both trucks has not been input into SAFER. If you listen, the green 379 was bought before the COVID “boom” at a whopping $416/Month through my local bank. I had funds when I sold my landscape company to buy the step deck which I later sold to buy my hopper which is paid for. The 389 was purchased and I have a payment on it as well as my dump trailer. But being good standing with my local bank they work with me and try to get me the best bang for my buck. At the end of the day my bills are paid, I have a rainy day fund, and my payroll checks never bounce. I wouldnt care if I only ran 15000 miles. Everyones situation is different and if youd like me to break it down to the exact penny feel free to reach out to me.

Replied on Tue, May 16, 2023 at 07:19 AM CST + 1
Posted by a private BulkLoads.com member.	Posted by a private BulkLoads.com member. Quote: "The second truck was bought in Oct of 22’. So mileage for both trucks has not been input into SAFER. If you listen, the green 379 was bought before the COVID “boom” at a whopping $416/Month through my local bank. I had funds when I sold my landscape company to buy the step deck which I later sold to buy my hopper which is paid for. The 389 was purchased and I have a payment on it as well as my dump trailer. But being good standing with my local bank they work with me and try to get me the best bang for my buck. At the end of the day my bills are paid, I have a rainy day fund, and my payroll checks never bounce. I wouldnt care if I only ran 15000 miles. Everyones situation is different and if youd like me to break it down to the exact penny feel free to reach out to me." Don't feel like you have to "justify" yourself to others. Do what works for you, and keep truckin'!

Replied on Tue, May 16, 2023 at 07:19 AM CST

+ 1

Posted by a private BulkLoads.com member.

Quote: "The second truck was bought in Oct of 22’. So mileage for both trucks has not been input into SAFER. If you listen, the green 379 was bought before the COVID “boom” at a whopping $416/Month through my local bank. I had funds when I sold my landscape company to buy the step deck which I later sold to buy my hopper which is paid for. The 389 was purchased and I have a payment on it as well as my dump trailer. But being good standing with my local bank they work with me and try to get me the best bang for my buck. At the end of the day my bills are paid, I have a rainy day fund, and my payroll checks never bounce. I wouldnt care if I only ran 15000 miles. Everyones situation is different and if youd like me to break it down to the exact penny feel free to reach out to me."

Don't feel like you have to "justify" yourself to others. Do what works for you, and keep truckin'!

Replied on Tue, May 16, 2023 at 08:29 AM CST + 1
Posted by a private BulkLoads.com member.	Posted by a private BulkLoads.com member. Most comments on this forum hold common sense and truth. Everyone strives for success. Jared made his multi success creating bulkloads.com. I was curious, do you haul for Circle A Brokers or any brokers on bulkloads.com?

Replied on Tue, May 16, 2023 at 09:10 AM CST + 1
Posted by a private BulkLoads.com member.	Posted by a private BulkLoads.com member. Quote: "Don't feel like you have to "justify" yourself to others. Do what works for you, and keep truckin'!" I agree!

Replied on Tue, May 16, 2023 at 09:10 AM CST + 1 - 1
Posted by a private BulkLoads.com member.	Posted by a private BulkLoads.com member. Quote: "The second truck was bought in Oct of 22’. So mileage for both trucks has not been input into SAFER. If you listen, the green 379 was bought before the COVID “boom” at a whopping $416/Month through my local bank. I had funds when I sold my landscape company to buy the step deck which I later sold to buy my hopper which is paid for. The 389 was purchased and I have a payment on it as well as my dump trailer. But being good standing with my local bank they work with me and try to get me the best bang for my buck. At the end of the day my bills are paid, I have a rainy day fund, and my payroll checks never bounce. I wouldnt care if I only ran 15000 miles. Everyones situation is different and if youd like me to break it down to the exact penny feel free to reach out to me." As others pointed out there is a stereotype that comes to mind when they here the word farms, personally it’s never been a mystery to me when I see a show truck, it’s obvious that someone traded his paycheck for it, fact is the pretty ones don’t get paid anymore than the ugly ones, if they did then J.B. Hunt would be running a fleet of stretched out large cars, I think the main reason your getting a hard time is the timing of the podcast, everyone is struggling right now with declining rates, even the tanker guys, some probably feel like it’s a slap in the face.

Replied on Tue, May 16, 2023 at 09:10 AM CST

+ 1 - 1

Posted by a private BulkLoads.com member.

As others pointed out there is a stereotype that comes to mind when they here the word farms, personally it’s never been a mystery to me when I see a show truck, it’s obvious that someone traded his paycheck for it, fact is the pretty ones don’t get paid anymore than the ugly ones, if they did then J.B. Hunt would be running a fleet of stretched out large cars, I think the main reason your getting a hard time is the timing of the podcast, everyone is struggling right now with declining rates, even the tanker guys, some probably feel like it’s a slap in the face.

Replied on Tue, May 16, 2023 at 09:20 AM CST + 1
Posted by a private BulkLoads.com member.	Posted by a private BulkLoads.com member. Quote: "It’s easy to see why everyone is suspicious about a outside source of income funding the trucks, when you have 35,000 miles per power unit being reported, most folks out there couldn’t fund a normal truck on that, much less a show truck, in fact even at 70k miles per truck most wouldn’t be able to do it, but it is nice to see a young fellow take pride in his equipment." You need to find some different freight. Think outside the box a little more. Why can't someone drive 75-85K, and not make a decent living? Just my Nickel's worth.

Replied on Tue, May 16, 2023 at 09:20 AM CST

+ 1

Posted by a private BulkLoads.com member.

You need to find some different freight. Think outside the box a little more. Why can't someone drive 75-85K, and not make a decent living? Just my Nickel's worth.

Replied on Tue, May 16, 2023 at 09:26 AM CST - 1
Posted by a private BulkLoads.com member.	Posted by a private BulkLoads.com member. Quote: "You need to find some different freight. Think outside the box a little more. Why can't someone drive 75-85K, and not make a decent living? Just my Nickel's worth. " Look up my mileage and see what I have, it may surprise you

Replied on Tue, May 16, 2023 at 09:27 AM CST + 1 - 1
Posted by a private BulkLoads.com member.	Posted by a private BulkLoads.com member. Here is a question for everyone, what do you think the reaction would have been if the podcast was about a single Mom building a show truck, who lived in the projects and was raising three kids on her own? Would folks respond differently?

Replied on Thu, May 18, 2023 at 06:48 AM CST
Posted by a private BulkLoads.com member.	Posted by a private BulkLoads.com member. Quote: "Most comments on this forum hold common sense and truth. Everyone strives for success. Jared made his multi success creating bulkloads.com. I was curious, do you haul for Circle A Brokers or any brokers on bulkloads.com? " I’ve used a couple, through bulk loads. Fortunately we have a tight knit of people we do work through now. Some from bulkloads that reach back out to me when they have work in our area. As well as some I’ve gotten from knocking down doors asking if people needed help with some loads.

Replied on Thu, May 18, 2023 at 06:48 AM CST

Posted by a private BulkLoads.com member.

Quote: "Most comments on this forum hold common sense and truth. Everyone strives for success. Jared made his multi success creating bulkloads.com. I was curious, do you haul for Circle A Brokers or any brokers on bulkloads.com? "

I’ve used a couple, through bulk loads. Fortunately we have a tight knit of people we do work through now. Some from bulkloads that reach back out to me when they have work in our area. As well as some I’ve gotten from knocking down doors asking if people needed help with some loads.

Replied on Thu, May 18, 2023 at 06:48 AM CST
Posted by a private BulkLoads.com member.	Posted by a private BulkLoads.com member. That won't happen

Replied on Fri, May 19, 2023 at 10:24 AM CST
Posted by a private BulkLoads.com member.	Posted by a private BulkLoads.com member. Quote: "Here is a question for everyone, what do you think the reaction would have been if the podcast was about a single Mom building a show truck, who lived in the projects and was raising three kids on her own? Would folks respond differently?" Honestly, I believe that to most of us, the proof is in the longevity of the business. We've all seen guys who've gone out and bought equipment one year only to thrown in the towel a few years later. I mean I consider myself "killing it" too, but what that means to me and my bottom line would be totally different to another person AND I have only been an o/o for a year even tho I have driven for others for 20. So catch up with me in a decade or so and see what I am up to then...😉

Replied on Fri, May 19, 2023 at 10:24 AM CST

Posted by a private BulkLoads.com member.

Quote: "Here is a question for everyone, what do you think the reaction would have been if the podcast was about a single Mom building a show truck, who lived in the projects and was raising three kids on her own? Would folks respond differently?"

Honestly, I believe that to most of us, the proof is in the longevity of the business. We've all seen guys who've gone out and bought equipment one year only to thrown in the towel a few years later. I mean I consider myself "killing it" too, but what that means to me and my bottom line would be totally different to another person AND I have only been an o/o for a year even tho I have driven for others for 20. So catch up with me in a decade or so and see what I am up to then...😉

Replied on Fri, May 19, 2023 at 07:36 PM CST + 1
Posted by a private BulkLoads.com member.	Posted by a private BulkLoads.com member. Quote: "First thing.....good story, wish you the best. But your mileage reports that 70000 miles is all you run, hope that is an error, should be at least 200000 with the two trucks. you stated you dont want to lease to no one because they tend to cap you out... thats not me, i want my lease operators to do as much as the log book will let them, i have everyday fixed cost weather they are running or not. insurance is the big one, they would just as soon you run less so the exposure isnt there. GOOD LUCK." I made good money hauling hogs into a local kill plant for a couple years and only put on around 30,000 miles a year.... In that line of work I was an animal handler first, truck driver second... I don't miss being Pig-pen, a lot less flies in my truck now that I haul commodities 😄

Replied on Fri, May 19, 2023 at 07:36 PM CST

+ 1

Posted by a private BulkLoads.com member.

I made good money hauling hogs into a local kill plant for a couple years and only put on around 30,000 miles a year.... In that line of work I was an animal handler first, truck driver second... I don't miss being Pig-pen, a lot less flies in my truck now that I haul commodities 😄