Local Job out of CDL training?

Discussion in 'Questions From New Drivers' started by TJA, Jul 4, 2007.

  1. TJA

    TJA Bobtail Member

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    Jul 1, 2007
    Murfreesboro, TN
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    Hey all,
    I'm sure this has been asked plenty of times, and I've read a few posts about it, but just wanted to bring it back up and ask. I'm considering going to a school or training program to get my CDL and change professions.

    I'm married and would really like to stay local, at least home 2-3 days a week for the 6 months to a year I expect to put in to "pay my dues" as I've read, once I get my CDL.

    I'm wondering if it would be possible/feasible for someone like myself (responsible, good work history, professional) to get one of the jobs you see in the paper or online where they advertise a local route, home daily, etc, something like hauling cars maybe, so that I wouldn't necessarily have to go out on the road for a year to get the 6 months to a year experience they want?

    Could you convince them that you could handle it or are they stuck on the experience aspect, regardless of your work history etc?

    Thanks
     
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  3. notarps4me

    notarps4me Road Train Member

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    Jan 1, 2007
    NASA HQ
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    Their insurance has a lot to do with it. Training companies are about the only way to break into this trade. Not always, but most local jobs that you could get you would wonder why doesn't a exp driver take it to get off the road? Chances are the job does not pay very well or a seasoned hand would have snagged it.
     
  4. MGASSEL

    MGASSEL Road Train Member

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    Mar 27, 2007
    Co
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    Most of the local jobs want 1-4 years over the road exp.

    Local exp does not ever count toward having exp because when and if you decide that you want to go over the road most companies will not look at you due to the fact not a recent grad and no recent otr exp.

    It would be better if you can go otr and stay otr. I know here there are oil companies that pay 22.00 per hour but I do not know the requirements as

    I want otr only due to the fact I would like to see different areas of the country.

    I know that I may not see alot of the country while driving but I will see enough through the windsheild.

    I love traveling and driving so why not get paid for something that I love doing.
     
  5. Toby

    Toby Light Load Member

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    Aug 25, 2006
    Indiana
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    The only way for you to know is to try. I asked the same question before and was told "pay your dues" can only start OTR. Depending on your area and what you are looking for you can (may) start with a local company at a lower wage. Myself, I trained with Roehl, finished the day before Thanksgiving. I was waiting for a trainer but after 4 days decided to apply for a local job I had seen in the paper. I got that position. I worked there 3 months at a lower wage and then applied to a food supplier at a much higher wage with plenty of OT. I have been there ever since. Your chances are better if you can get into food service or grocery. This is simply due to a higher turnover rate because of the extreme physical labor. Like I said it's up to you to give it your best shot!
    Toby
     
  6. TJA

    TJA Bobtail Member

    42
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    Jul 1, 2007
    Murfreesboro, TN
    0
    Thanks for your responses all! I'll do what I can to get what I need /want. After all, if you don't try, you'll definitely never get what you want, eh?

    Thanks for the tip about the food/grocery supply thing too. I think I'd almost rather have a little labor rather than sitting in a truck bored out of my mind all day, just driving. It'd be nice to have something to break up the monotony.
     
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