I went independent in September 2019, it was really hesitant take the leap from and risk the possibility of not having a steady pay check. But the last two companies I had worked for were managed so bad and treated there customers wrong (imo) that i knew if they could make money being that bad, i knew i could make it beingbfair and honest with my customers, Plus i would have always regretted not trying. But I can say it was the best choice I have ever made! I bought a old 1999 F550 with a DOM1 IMT bed with 7000lbs crane and put a Quincy 30 gallon air compressor and a Lincoln welder on it. Got some business cards made, I made up some folders with my logo and a one page work experience resume along with my pricing. I started handing them out, just trying to get my foot in the door! Insurance is a pain to get and deal with. Truck insurance, general liability insurance, garage keepers policy...tax crap, invoiving program...etc. I am blessed with great customers and have so much work and currently having to turn new customers work away. After the first year, business was good and steadily growing i bought a 2020 F550 extra cab with a IMT DOM1 bed crane and compressor. I don't do any social media or any advertising. All my customers have been from word of mouth. Being a field mechanic in this industry, its about relationships and your reputation. Good news or bad....your fault or not... being honest with your customers will go a long way. That's what I believe after 29 years of experience. Everyone has had to chase money, but you will figure out witch customers are worth keeping and which ones you replace with dependable customers that pay regularly. As far as taking off when you want to....the truth is that your paying customers make your schedule....if you want to keep them. Money's good, but you earn it...every penny. I physical work from 6 to 12 hours a day, then come home take care of family responsibilities, then around 9:30pm or so it's time for paperwork, invoicing, parts look up and ordering, filing etc.... you have to chase parts and where many hats....My Dad put it this way...."it's the only job you will have to work 80 hrs to make 40hrs....but you will love it." It's not for everyone but, I don't think I could ever work for another company again. If you seriously considering going independent, I would make sure you have atleast 3 months of personal bill money and some capital for parts. Fuel, insurance, etc... it might be slow the first month or two...but starting off don't pass any job up.....big excavators to push lawnmowers, welding jobs to oil changes. Hope this helps, good luck. Let us know what you do. I will send pics of my trucks on the next post!
