Starting a business at a young age comes with challenges, but for Mikael Sant, those obstacles only fueled his drive. At just 19, he built a trucking company that generated over $150,000 in revenue within its first three months. Through strategic planning, financial discipline, and a willingness to take calculated risks, Mikael has grown his business into a fleet of multiple trucks, with big plans for the future.

This article breaks down his journey, insights, and practical advice for those looking to break into the trucking industry.

Getting Started: The First Truck and Business Plan

Mikael’s journey into trucking wasn’t accidental. While working in Texas, a friend suggested that logistics could be a profitable venture. After returning home, he researched the market and saw an opportunity. With savings from his previous landscaping business, he purchased his first truck for $32,000.

To ensure a smooth start, he created a simple one-page business plan that focused on three core aspects:

Financing: Understanding capital requirements and securing funding.
Revenue Strategy: Figuring out the first sources of income.
Sustainability: Establishing a strategy for consistent profits.

Mikael quickly realized that success in trucking required more than just owning a vehicle—it required a solid network, smart financial management, and a strategic approach to securing freight.

Finding Customers: How to Land Hauling Jobs

One of the biggest challenges in trucking is finding consistent work. Mikael shares that load boards like DAT Board and TruckStop.com are great tools for new trucking businesses. These platforms connect truckers with brokers who need freight moved. However, securing direct clients is even better.

Some strategies that helped Mikael secure contracts include:

Cold calling local businesses such as breweries, cold storage facilities, and manufacturers.
Networking at industry events to meet brokers and business owners.
Leaving business cards at truck stops and mechanic shops.
Using social media (Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok) to advertise services.

Through persistence and relationship-building, Mikael established steady partnerships with brokers who now send him weekly loads without the need for negotiations.

Managing Fleet and Operations

Mikael quickly scaled his business by reinvesting profits into purchasing additional trucks. To efficiently manage operations, he uses:

Kamion TMS – A transportation management system for scheduling and dispatching loads.
QuickBooks – To handle financial records and invoicing.
Jobber – A management tool for his construction business.

He also maintains strong relationships with mechanics across different states, ensuring his trucks are serviced efficiently if they break down while on the road.

Maintenance and Unexpected Breakdowns

Truck maintenance is a significant cost in the industry. Mikael recommends setting aside 20% of revenue for repairs and emergencies. Breakdowns are inevitable, and being prepared financially helps mitigate disruptions.

One of the toughest moments in his business was when a refrigerated truck carrying over $100,000 worth of potatoes broke down multiple times due to an overlooked issue. Fortunately, the load remained frozen, but the experience reinforced the importance of working with skilled mechanics and having spare parts readily available.

Hiring the Right Drivers

Finding skilled and reliable drivers is critical to running a successful trucking business. Mikael takes a unique approach to hiring:

Instead of just doing interviews, he invites potential drivers to dinner with their families. This helps him gauge their character and work ethic in a casual setting.
He primarily recruits via Facebook groups for CDL drivers, instead of using traditional job boards.
He ensures all drivers have at least two years of experience, which helps reduce insurance costs.

He pays his drivers between $0.50 to $0.70 per mile, and top performers earn up to $3,200 per week.

Managing Costs: Insurance, Fuel, and Financing

Insurance Costs

Insurance is one of the biggest expenses in trucking, with quotes reaching $57,000 per year for a new driver. To keep costs low, Mikael:

Hires experienced drivers instead of driving himself.
Works with multiple insurance agencies to negotiate the best rates.
Uses a local agency for better service and lower premiums.

Fuel Savings

With fuel prices fluctuating, he uses AtoB fuel cards, which provide discounts of $0.20 to $0.70 per gallon at any gas station. Fuel savings add up quickly, especially for a growing fleet.

Buying vs. Leasing Trucks

Mikael prefers buying trucks instead of leasing because:

Leased trucks are not owned by the business.
Availability is limited, with waiting lists of six months or more.
He can negotiate better deals when purchasing outright.

For those new to the industry, he suggests buying used trucks and negotiating the price, as he did with his first truck.

Building Brand Awareness: How Social Media Helped Grow His Business

A significant part of Mikael’s success comes from his social media presence. His girlfriend encouraged him to start posting on TikTok, and within three videos, he went viral, gaining 1.3 million views.

He didn’t need to spend much on advertising—his strategy involved:

Posting daily updates about trucking on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.
Sharing behind-the-scenes content, including truck maintenance, road trips, and business tips.
Using TikTok to recruit drivers and attract clients.

His digital marketing efforts have helped him secure new business and build a strong personal brand.

Challenges and Future Goals

Despite his success, Mikael has faced his fair share of setbacks, including:

High insurance costs due to his age.
Unexpected truck breakdowns leading to lost revenue.
Learning to balance work and personal life, as running multiple businesses can be overwhelming.

Looking ahead, Mikael aims to:

Expand his fleet to 100 trucks within the next 7–8 years.
Focus on heavy hauling and transporting large equipment.
Eventually scale to 10,000 trucks, making his company a dominant force in the industry.

Final Advice for Aspiring Trucking Entrepreneurs

For those looking to break into the trucking industry, Mikael shares these key takeaways:

Start small but think big. His first truck led to multiple trucks and a growing fleet.
Build relationships with brokers. Reliable partnerships lead to consistent, high-paying loads.
Prioritize maintenance. Keep 20% of revenue set aside for repairs to avoid business disruptions.
Use social media. It’s a powerful tool for networking, marketing, and recruiting.
Reinvest profits into the business. Instead of taking large personal payouts, focus on scaling.

At just 19 years old, Mikael Sant has built an impressive trucking empire. His story is proof that determination, strategic thinking, and financial discipline can turn an ambitious idea into a thriving business.

FAQs About Starting and Scaling a Trucking Business

1. How much money do I need to start a trucking business?

The startup costs for a trucking business vary based on factors such as whether you purchase or lease a truck, insurance rates, and operational expenses. On average, starting a trucking company can require anywhere from $20,000 to $100,000. This includes the cost of a truck, insurance, licensing fees, fuel, and maintenance. Those who choose to buy a used truck can lower their initial costs, while leasing may require less upfront investment but comes with long-term payments.

2. Should I buy or lease my first truck?

Buying a truck provides full ownership and eliminates ongoing lease payments, but it requires a higher initial investment. Leasing, on the other hand, allows new business owners to start with lower upfront costs while receiving maintenance support from the leasing company. However, leasing means you do not own the truck, and availability can be limited. If you plan to stay in the industry long-term, purchasing a well-maintained used truck is often a better financial decision.

3. How do I find my first trucking customers?

Finding customers is one of the biggest challenges for new trucking businesses. Many owners start by using load boards such as DAT Board or TruckStop.com, where brokers post available freight. Another effective strategy is cold calling local businesses that regularly need transportation services, such as manufacturers, breweries, and cold storage facilities. Networking at industry events, leaving business cards at truck stops, and utilizing social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram can also help attract new clients.

4. How much should I set aside for truck maintenance?

To avoid financial strain from unexpected repairs, it is recommended to save around 20% of gross revenue for truck maintenance and emergencies. Truck breakdowns are inevitable, and having funds readily available can prevent disruptions in operations. Regular maintenance checks and stocking essential spare parts can further minimize downtime and expenses.

5. What are the biggest challenges of running a trucking business?

Trucking businesses face various challenges, including high insurance costs, the difficulty of finding experienced and reliable drivers, fluctuating fuel prices, and unexpected truck breakdowns. Additionally, managing compliance with government regulations and maintaining a steady flow of profitable loads can be difficult for new business owners. Those who succeed in the industry often focus on strategic planning, financial discipline, and building strong industry connections.

6. How do I lower my insurance costs?

Insurance is one of the largest expenses in trucking, but costs can be reduced by hiring experienced drivers with at least two years of experience, as insurers charge lower rates for them. Comparing quotes from multiple insurance providers is another effective way to find the best deal. Additionally, working with a local insurance agency often results in better service and personalized pricing options.

7. What’s the best way to find and hire truck drivers?

Recruiting qualified drivers can be challenging, but many trucking companies successfully find employees through Facebook groups dedicated to CDL drivers. Networking at truck stops and industry events can also yield good leads. Some businesses rely on referrals from current drivers, as word-of-mouth hiring can help identify reliable candidates. Offering competitive pay and benefits further increases the likelihood of attracting and retaining skilled drivers.

8. How do I build long-term relationships with brokers?

Establishing strong relationships with brokers requires reliability, good communication, and professionalism. Many trucking companies begin by taking small jobs and consistently meeting deadlines. Over time, brokers gain trust in a reliable carrier and start offering higher-paying, regular loads. Negotiating long-term contracts can also help maintain a steady flow of work, reducing the need to constantly search for new opportunities.

9. How can social media help grow my trucking business?

Social media is a powerful tool for marketing and networking in the trucking industry. Platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook can be used to showcase the company’s services, share industry insights, and attract potential customers. Additionally, many trucking companies use social media to recruit drivers and connect with brokers. Posting engaging content, such as behind-the-scenes videos and industry tips, can help build credibility and expand a company’s reach.

10. What are the most profitable types of freight to haul?

Some of the highest-paying freight types include refrigerated freight (reefer), which involves transporting perishable goods such as food and dairy products. Flatbed loads, which include construction materials and heavy equipment, also tend to generate high revenue. Automobile transport, particularly for dealerships and auctions, is another profitable option. Additionally, hauling hazardous materials (hazmat) requires additional certifications but often pays significantly more than standard freight.

11. How do I manage fuel costs effectively?

With fuel being a major expense, trucking businesses can save money by using fuel cards that offer discounts at gas stations. Planning efficient routes to avoid unnecessary mileage, maintaining trucks for optimal fuel efficiency, and monitoring fuel prices to refuel at the most affordable locations are all effective strategies for cost reduction.

12. When should I hire a dispatcher or fleet manager?

For those managing one or two trucks, handling dispatching independently may be manageable. However, as a company expands to multiple trucks, hiring a dispatcher can improve efficiency by handling load scheduling, communication, and route planning. A fleet manager is also beneficial when operating multiple vehicles, as they oversee maintenance, compliance, and driver coordination.

13. How do I handle unexpected truck breakdowns?

Truck breakdowns can disrupt business operations, so having a plan in place is crucial. Establishing relationships with roadside mechanics in various locations ensures quick repair services when needed. Keeping spare parts for minor repairs, investing in regular preventive maintenance, and maintaining an emergency repair fund can further minimize downtime and financial strain.

14. How much can a trucking business owner make?

Earnings vary based on the number of trucks in operation, freight rates, and expenses. On average, a single truck can generate between $8,000 and $12,000 per week in gross revenue. After covering expenses such as fuel, insurance, and maintenance, profit margins typically range from 20% to 30%. Expanding the fleet and securing direct contracts can significantly increase overall earnings.

15. What’s the best way to scale a trucking business?

Scaling a trucking company involves reinvesting profits into purchasing additional trucks, building relationships with brokers for steady loads, and hiring reliable drivers. Optimizing routes and scheduling also helps maximize efficiency. Expanding at a sustainable pace while maintaining financial discipline is key to long-term growth.

16. What are the key legal requirements for a trucking business?

Trucking businesses must comply with regulations such as obtaining a Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) registration, ensuring all drivers hold valid commercial driver's licenses (CDLs), and using Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs) to track hours of operation. Proper insurance coverage for both the truck and cargo is also required to operate legally.

17. What is a good first goal for a new trucking business?

For new trucking businesses, a solid first milestone is reaching the break-even point within three to six months. This means covering all operating expenses through generated revenue. Once the business becomes profitable, the next goal should be reinvesting in additional trucks and expanding the client base for long-term success.

18. What’s the biggest mistake new trucking business owners make?

Many new trucking business owners underestimate costs, leading to cash flow problems. Failing to save for maintenance can result in expensive breakdowns that disrupt operations. Additionally, hiring unreliable drivers without proper background checks can create logistical issues. Negotiating fair rates with brokers and shippers is another crucial aspect that some beginners overlook.

19. How long does it take to get a CDL, and do I need one?

Obtaining a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) typically takes four to eight weeks, depending on the training program. While business owners are not required to have a CDL if they hire drivers, obtaining one can be beneficial in case of driver shortages or emergencies.

20. What’s the long-term outlook for the trucking industry?

The trucking industry continues to grow as demand for freight transportation remains strong. While advancements in electric and autonomous trucks are developing, diesel-powered trucks remain the industry standard. Business owners who stay informed about industry trends and adapt to changes are likely to find long-term success.