Opinions Needed before Decision

Discussion in 'Motor Carrier Questions - The Inside Scoop' started by Tacosta, May 28, 2008.

  1. Tacosta

    Tacosta Bobtail Member

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    May 27, 2008
    Waterford, PA
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    I am looking at several different Trucking Schools and pretty much they all want you - I am a woman looking to get into the business, I am only looking for a year contract - but do not want to sit waiting for a load like i am seeing pretty much all newbies doing. I have found this site by web-searching along with trucking companies - is it really true that a new driver can make 35-45,000 in their first year, or is it all a ploy to get you sign. I just want an honest answer. I am not afraid to work - I want to be a driver and get the job done. Thanks in advance for all of your information. :mconfused:
     
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  3. Lurchgs

    Lurchgs Road Train Member

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    I can't speak from experience - but I have been reading a lot in the past 4 - 5 months. The short answer is "yes". The long answer is that you have to work your BUTT off. You have to have a sympathetic DM. You have to pick the right company. So, yes, it can be done. From what I'm reading, though, 30K is more likely.
     
  4. honor roll

    honor roll Road Train Member

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    Good Luck in your search
     
  5. jess-juju

    jess-juju Road Train Member

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    Good luck with your search.
     
  6. pawpaw

    pawpaw Medium Load Member

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    Milan, NM
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    I hope you find what you are looking for. The time to do the research is now. Understand that you will have to begin at a company that many see as less than desirable. Some go to those companies and do well and decide to stay on. Others don't like them and move as soon as they can. I would recommend researching not only the initial company, but maybe have a couple in mind that you could go to if it doesn't work out at that first company. That way you will know what they expect. It is best to know that there are no perfect companies out there and you may love a company that others hate. You need to find a company that is best matched to your needs and wants. Many here can help with info but the best source is to talk to drivers at truck stops who work for companies you are considering. Again good luck to you in your search.
     
  7. Tacosta

    Tacosta Bobtail Member

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    May 27, 2008
    Waterford, PA
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    Thank you to all - it does get overwhelming when the recruiters are saying "come with us, you have to make your decision now, school starts immediately," - this is where i say wait a minute, i want to make the decision after doing research on these companies, i am not making a split decision right here and now. I am taking my time, I am looking for a one year contract - Even though, Schneider has been calling, i hear they are very good except of the 2year contract. Who knows. I will keep reading all the threads and searching. Be Safe and True to all Truck
     
    Last edited: May 29, 2008
  8. pawpaw

    pawpaw Medium Load Member

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    Milan, NM
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    While this site can be a good source, don't limit your research to what you read here. Otherwise, you may develop a real negative feeling towards any company you might consider. Talk to drivers at the truck stop. Go back to the recruiter with 25+ questions that focus on what is important to you. On the most important issues find 2 or 3 ways to ask that same question (easy way to find the "sales talk"). Write down all those answers then, ask the current drivers you speak to to "verify" that information. A good way to end your conversation with the recruiter is to ask this question, "Are you willing to put all of this in writing and sign your name to it?" If they hedge any amount, you know that what they have told you is what they think you want to hear. Also review SafeStat scores (high incidences of log violations for 11/14 or 60/70 violations could indicate that company pushes drivers to do creative logging).

    I have found it is best to not base the decision on cents per mile but on things like average miles per week, average length of haul, drivers' annual gross income average, etc. A company can offer high cents per mile but if they don't run the miles you can often make more at a company who pays less per mile but gives you the miles.

    Hope this helps some. Good luck.
     
  9. Tacosta

    Tacosta Bobtail Member

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    May 27, 2008
    Waterford, PA
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    Thanks Paw Paw, i have another question regarding felonies - No, i dont have anything on my record. My husband has been out since oct 2006. he will be off papers on 2010 - April. We eventually want to drive as a team. Can you give me any information as him being an exfelon for driving truck. he was charged back in 1998. thanks for your input:biggrin_25520:
     
  10. pawpaw

    pawpaw Medium Load Member

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    Most companies will list right in their hiring requirements the length of time on felonies. Best thing is bring it up right away with any recruiter you talk to. No sense in being on the phone with a recruiter for 1/2 hour only to find out the felony is a hindrance. In my case, knowing my state, my first question to the recruiter was, "Do you hire solos in New Mexico?" If they did we would talk. If not, I saved us both time by ending the conversation.
     
  11. goodchoice10

    goodchoice10 Heavy Load Member

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    Aug 31, 2010
    The Buckeye
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    It seems to me that the problem with making a decision is not making one in the first place. Research is great, as well as collecting opinions about an industry that you are new to, but failure to "pull the trigger" or holding out for what you think would be the perfect opportunity is a bit much in an industry where you have no experience or even a license. It's a ground floor thing, just like everything. Your expectations should be reasonable and your decision should be the best fit (in so much as possible), however, high mileage and 35K+ a year are lofty goals for having nothing more to offer than a good attitude. Just an opinion, from a 42 year old who changed careers and is currently in school and should have his CDL in 10 days and if all goes well will be driving in 3 wks. Good luck!

    "Progressive improvement is better than postponed perfection!"
     
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