7 facts you might not know about owner-operators

Content Sponsored by Mercer Transportation

For many truck drivers, running your own business by becoming an owner-operator is the ultimate goal.

But for those who are new to the trucking industry, there are several misconceptions about owner-operators swirling around out there. That’s why we thought we’d share this list of facts about owner-operators straight from the horse’s mouth — the Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association (OOIDA) Foundation.

1. The average age for becoming an owner-operator is 37 years old.
2. 36% of owner-operators have served in the military.
3. Owner-operators average 101,000 miles per year.
4. 90% of owner-operators are registered voters.
5. The average amount spent on maintenance per year by an owner-operator is $14,000.
6. 66% of owner-operators have their trucks paid off
7. 86% of owner-operators completed high school and about 45% have some college experience under their belts.