Frequently Asked Questions
Where do you want your business to go?
It's a fundamental question—one of several you need to consider when developing a sound business plan for success as an owner operator. You'll find honest answers at Roehl.
Q: Revenue is important to any business; what kind of income potential do you want?
A: Roehl offers owner operators lucrative compensation plans. Van, Refrigerated or Curtainside rates are based on a sliding mileage scale. Flatbed owner operators can select between two compensation plans - a sliding mileage scale rate or a percent of revenue based plan. Roehl's mileage based compensation is paid using practical route mileage so you'll be compensated for more of the miles you actually drive - in some instances 5% more.
And with the POWER OF RED our diversified customer base and award winning service reputation give you more opportunities to keep your truck moving which equates to more miles and a dependable revenue stream for your business.
Q: How will you get enough shipping customers to keep generating the revenue your business needs?
A: The fact is brokers and load boards are not a predictable or reliable source of steady business. And any time you'd spend selling your services to shippers is downtime and a cost to your business—not an income generating activity. When you team with Roehl on the other hand, you don't need to worry about where your next load will come from.
Nor will you be in the position of having to take less desirable freight just to keep revenue flowing. Roehl understands you want to keep your business moving; the vast majority of Roehl's freight is no touch. Freight can be pre-planned so your business has less downtime between loads.
Q: With rising operating costs, how will you control expenses and maximize profitability?
A: Tires, parts and fuel are significant business expenses for any trucking business. Roehl's exclusive owner operator support program helps you keep those expenses in check so more of your revenue goes to your bottom line. As a small business owner, you can experience the Power of Red. With Roehl, you'll save money through the purchasing power and discounts of one of the nation's largest carriers. That includes a leading fuel and routing optimization program designed to maximize fuel discounts and minimize road expenses. Plus, Roehl furnishes your base plates and permits.
Q: Another component to your small business success is managing risk; how will you protect your family and investment?
A: Affording proper insurance is a real obstacle for any small business owner. Roehl can provide your business access to a wide network of industry vendors who can offer you excellent group rates on business coverages as well as health and life insurance packages for you and your family members. Roehl helps owner operators plan for security. It's part of how the Power of Red works for you.
Q: Even if the “operator” side of the business is old hat, the “owner” side may be new. How will you learn the ins and outs of successful business ownership?
A: Roehl offers business management classes with insights and suggestions that will help your small business be successful. You'll also receive additional support from other industry professionals, including consultants, accounting services (with monthly, quarterly and annual profit and loss statements—including tax return preparation) and business analysts.
Q. In order to go into business as an owner operator, you need to own a tractor. How do you qualify for and manage that kind of up-front investment?
A: Roehl leasing helps many drivers afford trucks through their tractor lease/purchase program. Both new and late-model tractors are available, depending on your needs. With Roehl's lease purchase program, tractor payments and other business-related expenses are automatically deducted weekly from your settlements. That way you don't have to worry about initiating payments—you can focus on business success.
Q: Going into business for yourself is a big step; how will you be sure your business will be a good investment in the long run?
A: The long-term demand for trucking services is predicted to increase. It's a growth industry, offering a promising long-term future. Your business also needs to prosper even during economic downcycles. That's why it's important you do business with a financially stable partner. When you partner with Roehl, your business will serve some of the most recognizable corporate names in America—companies that form the backbone of our national economy.
A partner you can trust
This is a major financial decision for you and your family. It's important to choose a partner you can trust to help you succeed.
As you take the next step towards ownership, look for a company with:
- A record of growth, financial success and strength.
- Experienced, established company management.
- A culture and work environment that is dedicated to safe operation.
- Quality customers.
- Industry leadership.
- Values—a commitment to business partnership and driver success.
- Sufficient size to offer you lower operating costs through economies of scale, leading technological support and financial stability.
- Integrity—fairness in treatment of business partners, employees, customers and suppliers.
As a business owner partnered with Roehl, you've planned for success.