im sure there are hundreds of these threads around. Let me introduce myself though, my name is Andy I am 21 and starting a CDL-A class on Saturday with the local college. I'm looking for good starter companies in the Manchester NH/Boston MA area. Eventually I want to work for Wal-mart as ive heard great things about them through other truckers and from Wal-mart drivers. Only downfall is they don't hire with less than 3 years exp. and 250,000 miles. any Info, tips, tricks etc is appreciated. Ill be looking around and posting more and more. This is a great forum from what I can see, everyone seems nice and full of advice.
thanks in advance

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Student looking to make some cash and start a career....

Andy, sadly you will probably have to start at one of the larger outfits such as j.b. hunt, swift, schneider, etc... i've actually heard that schneider is a pretty good place to start. you'll have to get 2-3 years experience and keep your nose clean, no accidents, tickets, etc... then you can start applying with companies like wal-mart, ups, fed-ex, just about any LTL company will be a good job. go through the posts here about these companies and choose the lesser of the evils. i'm not familiar with your area but i would try to find a company that has a terminal close to where you live. DON'T BE JUMPING AROUND from job to job, it looks bad on your employment record. as for me, i got into the tanker business about 12 years ago and never looked back. it's much easier work and pays a little better than most other freight. schneider actually has a bulk division, if you started there you might could transfer into that division after some seat time with a dry box. if you have any questions, just post them here and i'll try and get back to answer them, good luck.

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First of all, welcome. Cajun is absolutely right. Unless you get lucky and find an owner-op who is willing to put a rookie in a big truck like I did, you'll probably end up with a large carrier. Do like Cajun said and keep your nose clean, and don't sweat the small stuff, and your 3 years will be here before you know it. Just remember to keep your eye on the prize. Good luck.

Andy, kep in mind there are others factors that I have found as a student to consider. Things like having a good MVR record, a solid work history and the ability to consistently pass your drug screens. These are all factors that I have found companies look at in addition to your schooling. Good luck and I agree I have heard good things about Wal-Mart as well.

Cajun is essentially correct.. but!

Search out the websites for the companies you might be interested in (or just start searching at the top and work down over in the Company DAC section here). Look for companies that offer to teach you to drive.

Not that I want you to stop your current school - I think it's much better to get your CDL independent of any carrier.

The idea is, if a company offers to train you, odds are good that they'll hire you straight out of school. So, you see, you are not quite restricted to the 'big six'.

Also, check around locally - construction truckers (belly dump, etc), tank, etc.

Shux Howdy, JohnDeere!

Some companies require actual proof thatcha handle the program. The larger companies weed the seed from the chafe.

Think of those three-years as an investment in your future, and, above all, gittin' experience the old fashioned way.
Earnin' it.

Safety comes first
250,000 miles?
Two - 2 1/2 years.

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Pontificating Dogmatist