Going self employed for hire...?

Hay all, I am just posting on here as I am looking into trying to go as a self employed driver for hire. any advise, information on this subject would be apricated. Do many haulage companys like hiring in this way ? what kind of hourly rate can be had ? i’m living in gloucester, gloucestershire area. do I need my own insurants, what are the problems that can be had from doing this act. any info would be great. many thanks all.