Step Success Guide for Truck Owners in the USA.pdf

At Dispatch Services Inc, we stay ahead of industry changes to help fleets and drivers thrive with smarter, safer, and more efficient solutions.

1. Truck
Owners in
the USA
www.dispatchsi.com
6-step guide to

2. Choose a business structure: LLC, sole
proprietorship, or corporation
Register for a USDOT Number and MC Number
Enroll in a Drug & Alcohol Clearinghouse program
(FMCSA requirement)
Get your
business legal
and road-readyStep 1:
www.dispatchsi.com
Get mandatory trucking insurance
Apply for an EIN (Employer Identification Number)

3. Buy or lease
your truck(s)Step 2:
Pick truck specs based on load type (dry van, reefer,
flatbed, etc.)
Inspect and maintain regularly (tires, brakes, oil, etc.)
Don’t forget ELD compliance (Electronic Logging
Device)
www.dispatchsi.com

4. Sign up for load boards (DAT, TruckStop,
123Loadboard)
Partner with brokers or shippers directly
Consider dedicated contracts for consistent work
Find Secure,
Steady, &
reliable loadsStep 3:
www.dispatchsi.com
Build a reputation for on-time delivery and
professionalism

5. Cash flow is king
in truckingStep 4:
Track income, fuel, repairs, insurance, tolls, etc
Use a fuel card to save on fuel
Consider factoring services to get paid faster
www.dispatchsi.com
Set money aside for taxes and repairs

6. Follow HOS (Hours of Service) rules with your ELD
File IRP (International Registration Plan) for multi-
state travel
Keep your IFTA filings (International Fuel Tax
Agreement) up to date
Avoid fines,
shutdowns, or
DOT auditsStep 5:
www.dispatchsi.com
Stay updated on FMCSA regulations

7. Plan for GrowthStep 6:
Hire drivers (and ensure compliance with CDL, drug
testing, etc.)
Stay active in trucking communities/forums for
advice and leads
Add more trucks or trailers if demand grows
www.dispatchsi.com