Before the first load
- Insurance filed and certificates ready to send to brokers
- BOC-3, UCR, IRP plates and IFTA license in place for the states you'll run (check with your state)
- Know your cost per mile so you know your floor
- A separate business bank account and card
Getting loads
- Many brokers want some time in business; ask which ones work with new authorities and build from there.
- Check every broker's authority and reviews before you haul.
- Every load: compare rate per total mile against your break-even.
Cash flow
- Brokers often pay in 30 days or more. Plan for it with savings, quick pay or factoring (and know its real cost).
- Set aside a percentage of every settlement for taxes, and make quarterly estimated payments.
Records from day one
- Miles by state for IFTA (deadlines here)
- Every fuel and expense receipt
- Days on the road for per diem
- Signed BOLs and rate cons for every load
BlueCollar Fleet was built for exactly this stage: check loads, log miles by state, snap receipts and keep tax money aside, all from your phone.
General information, not tax or legal advice. Rules change; check with your tax preparer or the agency before you file.