Truth about CRST

I am on my last 2 1/2 weeks of a 8 month contract, my second career in life, I gave my notice that I will be seeking a solo regional position, I feel this is the most professional thing to do no matter what I think of the company.

CRST did give me the opportunity to get my CDL and the experience needed to further this career.

The driving school ADS was quick pace, you learned just enough to get your license in 2 weeks, my trainer at CRST was very good, he was a 25 year experienced trucker from New York, safety was his highest priorty, he trained me to drive day or night, he trained me to live on the road, manage time and take advantage of downtime, he done the best he could do in 28 days.

I have had 4 co drivers in these 8 month and I have come to really looking forward to going solo, co driving is just not for me.

I expected not to make much until after 6 months and I didn't, I or should I say my team was never late, we didn't like some of the things going on but kept them between ourselves. We stayed out 6 weeks, 4 weeks and tried 3 weeks, never made no more per week on an average, honestly I had 3 good pay weeks in the last 8 months, which I considered over $600

The things I didn't like about CRST is the fact they charge 2 CPM for the Pet Diem, they claim it is a administrative fee, helping to pay their tax burden, this is not discussed at anytime until after driving school and after you sign your8 month contract. The other thing is if you happen to drive solo for a few days CRST pay only 20 cpm again not discussed with you and lastly we sat a lot, the longest was 6 days in Seattle.

Now I made a decision to change careers, I wanted to do something I enjoy for the last 10 years of my working life, I excepted the pay (was not told the whole truth) the 8month contract, now I will move on to a regional solo position.

I am writing this post so new students get all the facts before they commit to CRST because once you sign you need to finish your contract if you want to stay in trucking and not get sued, CRST will sue you and no other company will hire you until that contract is completed.

I hope this helps others make the choice that is right for them.

Good luck to you.