ABF vs. SEFL...pros and cons for a new driver? Training, benefits, equipment, etc.

Discussion in 'LTL and Local Delivery Trucking Forum' started by bubbagumpshrimp, Nov 26, 2014.

  1. bubbagumpshrimp

    bubbagumpshrimp Medium Load Member

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    I've heard good things about both of these LTL companies. I have an interview with both of them next week. Does anyone have an opinion about how they compare? i.e. Training,benefits, equipment, pay, etc.

    I have a few additional questions:

    - How do these two companies handle training of new drivers? i.e. At the terminal location.

    - If I'll start off at a lower/training pay...how long can I reasonably expect that to last for? i.e. If I'm not Forrest Gump slow at picking the job up...will I be at the full-driver pay in 1, 2, 3, etc. months.

    - ABF driving jobs are union. I don't see a mention of a union for SEFL, so I have to assume they are non-union. Is that the case? I've never had a union job, so that's a bit of an unknown for me.

    Thank you in advance.
     
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  3. superflow

    superflow Road Train Member

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    I would go with ABF in a heart beat ,have always heard they are good company to work for ....union jobs are the best jobs ,not a single driver can argue that ever !
     
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  4. bubbagumpshrimp

    bubbagumpshrimp Medium Load Member

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    Thank you for the feedback. I'm looking forward to my interviews with both companies. ABF in particular. A union gig would be great (unless there was a strike, of course). Both companies would be a good way for me to start out though.
     
  5. Grouch

    Grouch Road Train Member

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    I'm in full agreement with "superflow". Go with ABF, but realize the next few years might be a little rough. You will be the "low man on the totem pole" and if this is an otr job, you will be on a "hog board". You know what a "hog board" is? The senior drivers get first choice at any road trip even if you sit home for a day or two. But if you can handle this and can "live by the phone" I would certainly jump on it. It will take you at least 2 years to reach top pay, might be a little longer. I know one union company, it takes 4 years.

    In a few years, you will be glad that you went with ABF instead of SEFL.
     
  6. Boy Howdey

    Boy Howdey Medium Load Member

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    Iinehaul or city?
     
  7. bubbagumpshrimp

    bubbagumpshrimp Medium Load Member

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    City P&D. Lots more manual labor, but the additional home time is a big priority for me.
     
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  8. Shaggy

    Shaggy Road Train Member

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    Not familiar with SEFL.


    Depends on every location. My barn at ABF. Everyone gets their 40 in, We have 34 guys.
    I'm still a new guy. #22 out of 34. My brother is 33 and we both work minimum 40 hours.

    Depends on the city / terminal / freight and numerous other things.
    Don't be discouraged about the " hog board "


    ABF is worth the effort.
     
  9. Midwesttrucker

    Midwesttrucker Light Load Member

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    ABF is an excellent company to work for. You will be paid from punch in to punch out and make a great living for yourself.
     
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  10. cascivic

    cascivic Light Load Member

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    Only takes one year to go to top rate now. If your a cdl holder with at least one year experience you will probably work the dock till safety guy comes and road tests you. Once road ready they will use you on any shift they like till you make the seniority list. Then you will bid on your start time. Bear in mind you will probably be stuck on the dock after that for the most part at least a year or two.
    If you are applying for a "city driver school" position ....thy will use you on the dock till they set up your training (during these time they are evaluating you also so keep your nose clean). You will make dock rate 13.20 . You will then go to ft smith for 4 weeks and attend U of A ft smith cdl school and get paid 325 a week.
     
  11. Gazoo64

    Gazoo64 Light Load Member

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    Go with ABF they are a much better company along with the union and the benefits and pension you have a job you can retire at. Two other great non union companies are Old Dominion and Estes Express. I work at Estes. City drivers start a 21.20hr Line at 0.495mi. Any more info PM me.
     
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