The Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association (OOIDA) Foundation has introduced a new educational program designed specifically for truck drivers who are ready to transition into running their own businesses. Whether you’re planning to operate under your own authority or sign on with a carrier, the Truck to Success course is designed to help drivers take that leap with the right knowledge and support.
Why OOIDA Launched the Program
Many drivers dream about becoming their own boss, but statistics show the odds are tough in the early years. According to the association, “The Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association has noticed that many small trucking businesses tend to fail within the first year of operating for a variety of reasons. The OOIDA Foundation, which is the educational and research affiliate of OOIDA, wants to help navigate those going through the change from a company driver to an owner-operator, or help with the desire to have a more successful trucking business.”
This new program guides industry experts who understand the challenges of starting and sustaining a trucking business.
Course Format and Schedule
Drivers can enroll in Truck to Success either virtually or in person. The three-day in-person seminar will be held October 21–23 at the Courtyard by Marriott in Blue Springs, Missouri, while the live-streamed version will be available through Zoom.
For anyone planning to attend in person, the registration cutoff is October 1. Online registration remains open until October 20.
OOIDA emphasized that “Participants will hear from trucking experts dedicated to helping drivers become successful business owners. The training is designed to follow a logical path along the transition from a company driver to an independent contractor to an owner-operator with their own authority.”
What Drivers Will Learn
The program is structured to address the biggest pitfalls new owner-operators face. OOIDA explained, “The seminar covers some of the most important points you need to deal with to avoid failing as an owner-operator.”
Topics include:
- Building a business plan and understanding how it impacts long-term success
- Choosing the right truck and financing options
- Deciding whether to lease to a carrier or run under your own authority
- Managing taxes to keep more of your earnings
- How to work effectively with brokers
Additional areas of focus are just as critical for independent drivers:
- Insurance essentials
- The New Entrant Safety Audit and compliance reviews
- Drug and alcohol testing requirements
- UCR, IRP, and IFTA regulations
- Factoring and business structure choices (sole proprietor vs. incorporation)
- Current issues facing trucking today
Open to All Drivers
The Truck to Success course is not limited to OOIDA members. Any driver who wants to build a stronger foundation for their business is welcome to register.
For full course details or to sign up, visit OOIDA’s registration page.
Source: The Trucker
Image Source: Timur Shakerzianov (Unsplash)
