My Eccentric Tanker Trucking Questions

Schneider doesn't do food grade. If you move to the Midwest Chicago would be the place to go to find what you are looking for. Look into Foodliner...they go west...and east.

Gotta go where the freight goes and the NE isn't as bad as people make it out to be.

 

Hi John,

I've been dragging a tank for the past two years both food grade and chemicals. the d like to give my opinion on your questions.

1. You don't have to move. That's a serious risk and you are gambling the company you select will treat you right. I'd start with a company that best matches your requirements and see how it goes. Personally I would never move for a company until I was certain I had a future there. Besides, if you are staying out for 6 months straight, where you live will have limited impact on your home time. If you are looking to take a few weeks at the end of the year, I would definitely give them a few weeks notice prior to when I wanted off. Make that a part of your decision making process when selecting a company.

2. Yes, there are long and short runs on both sides. I'm sure you know this but the runs are all customer driven. Perishable bulk liquids like milk may have shorter runs. Others in food grade like palm and soy oils can certainly go long distances. Some chemical companies do long hauls too. Again, that's a question I'd ask before agreeing to accept a position at a company.

3. See my answer in #1.

4. From my experience in tanks, it seems to me most of the OTR work is in the Northeast. You maybe sitting elsewhere while waiting for loads. Talk to other drivers at different companies, like you are on here but also in person. Ask recruiters questions and compare them with driver's answers.

5. As for a tanker company directory, try this:

http://www.tanktruck.org/about/membership/carriers-member-directory

I truly hope this helps you in your quest. Feel free to reach out if you would like more information.

Good luck,
Ernest Adkins

 

Also check out Superior Carriers & Carry Transit. They have terminals in NJ, right by the NY border. My runs are usually 500 miles or more. You don't have to move, but if you do, I hear Houston, TX gets good loads. Could be wrong though.

 

Wsyrob, what company u drive for?

 

What is the reason for the driver shortage at your terminal, are they expanding business,or are drivers quiting?