Are Companies Really Looking for Drivers?

From just a cursory observation, it seems that companies are starving for new recruits. In my early pursuit I have filled out several "pre-hire" forms, but get little or almost no interest.
Typically when I send an email, I get nothing. Phone calls generally go to voicemail and mostly are not returned. Some companies that are not in my hiring area will not even entertain taking me on, although I will be moving from California to wherever I need to be.
I have a spotless driving record and a solid, professional work history that--at least on the surface--would seem to put me as a desirable prospect.
What gives?

 

Oh, I have.
Stevens? Not in the area. Don't care if I move.
Roehl and Knight? Same thing.
Prime? Did the short app and left msg. Nothing.
There are others.
I'm not saying I exhausted everyone, but I'm surprised at the lack of interest of the ones I have made the first step.
Hats off to Wilson Logistics and TMC; they are definitely on it. Cool thing about TMC is that although I'm out of their hiring area, they can work around that rule by using my parents' Florida address.

 

So far just dialogue. I can't start until I retire this June, but the recruiter is really interested in me. I really like the company and its percentage pay, but I'm not particularly thrilled about flatbed. I'll do it, but not my first choice. Saying that, I hear from a lot of flatbedders who really love it.

If they only did tanker...

 

No, I'm looking for company training. I'll be doing my DOT physical and getting my permit soon.
I don't have a problem with going OTR for at least a year to get the clout that can carry me on.
Ultimately, I want to do tanker. Maybe I should just go to Swift as they are not too far from me. Most of my focus has been on better rated company schools so I can get a proper training.

 

Hence, one of the many reasons I gotta get outta here ASAP