Questions for Recruiters/Companies as a upcoming CDL graduate

Discussion in 'Questions From New Drivers' started by RussianBearTruckeR, Jan 19, 2019.

  1. RussianBearTruckeR

    RussianBearTruckeR Heavy Load Member

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    :newb: Currently in CDL school:study:, already had a recruiter :evil3: come by from a major dry-van fleet, expected to graduate at start of March:smilebox: - interested in Flatbed or Tanker :Tank truck:OTR division (want the miles+experience)...
    I'd like to get :help: from seasoned professionals to see if I'm missing something before getting on board with a company...
    Here's my list so far of questions not available on their websites:
    • $CPM is for loaded & unloaded miles?
    • is home time around your weekly (70 hour) reset? If not, is there a per diem or motel pay or are you just stuck in the truck for that 34 hours unpaid?
    • How long are you home for? When does that time start (If you commute to & from the local terminal)
    • Is there a PrePass (bypass weight stations), all tolls covered with an electronic pass provided?
    • What kind of trucks you running & what's their top speed (Hoping for a KW or Peter - Don't see anyone carrying Mack Anthems) - Equip'd with APU? internet?, Xm radio? Elogs?
    • Fuel Rewards card - Connected to which Stations (Loves, Pilot, TA's)? Do drivers keep the rewards?
    • All accessorial pay breakdown, stops, detention, etc. List of all additional pay (Canada trips, etc)
    • all Bonuses, Tuition Reimbursement, increase(s) in CPM (CSA/Safety, miles, etc)?
    • Breakdown of all provided benefits
    1. Separate question about truck stops (loves, pilot, etc.), I didn't know you have to pay to use their truck stop parking spots (just found out you can make reservations also) - does the company reimburse for this or do they expect you to use the highway rest stops if you want to avoid parking payment? Can Fuel Rewards points be redeemed towards Parking - you get 24 hours?

    • Are any Company fleets using Mack Anthem trucks?

    Appreciate any and or all feedback...Just trying to get all my :duckie:'s in a row to make sure to cover my:bootyshake: before :evil3::evil5:
    Am I missing anything? For flatbed I have a breakdown of all accessorial pay & other goodies (NYC Borough pay, stops, etc) - hope this covers it...

    • Do flatbed & Tanker division also have detention pay if they're stuck at the pickup or drop off? Or this only applies to DryVan+Reefer?
     
    Shadalee Thanks this.
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  3. lovesthedrive

    lovesthedrive R.I.P.

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    Just remember. Recruiters wont give you a direct answer. Yet even if they say all the things above? Dont believe it. Find a company driver and ask them.
    A recruiters job is to get you in a truck and have a pulse rate.
     
  4. hamNbeans

    hamNbeans Bobtail Member

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    If you want to flatbed I'd recommend maverick or tmc to start.
     
  5. RussianBearTruckeR

    RussianBearTruckeR Heavy Load Member

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    Jacksonville, FL
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    TMC is my #1! fingers crossed, what about Melton (bad reputation)? That was my #2 & Schneider Bulk for Tanker? Appreciate the tip about Maverick (will look into that) :notworthy:
     
  6. hamNbeans

    hamNbeans Bobtail Member

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    Don't know much about Melton. I used to work for maverick but hurt my neck at home and Dr recommended not messing with the tarps so no flatbedding I miss it. I loved maverick. I thought it was a great company.
     
  7. Chinatown

    Chinatown Road Train Member

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    If you want to run coast to coast and border to border, then go with Melton Truck Lines.
    There's a smaller flatbed outfit in South Carolina that also runs 48 states; Senn Freight Lines.
     
  8. RussianBearTruckeR

    RussianBearTruckeR Heavy Load Member

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    Jacksonville, FL
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    @Chinatown much appreciated for all your ongoing help!
     
    Solo Soul and Chinatown Thank this.
  9. Tombstone69

    Tombstone69 Road Train Member

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    Check the TMC reviews,you might change your mind.
     
    RussianBearTruckeR Thanks this.
  10. Sureshot 58

    Sureshot 58 Bobtail Member

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    Jan 5, 2021
    Southern California
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    Hello guys, I really appreciate all your years of wisdom your sharing with us new drivers. Your mentoring really clears up the fog of the industry nicely. I retired from my previous occupation and jumped into a cdl school to finally get a chance to do what my heart desires and drive. Thanks again!
     
  11. Chinatown

    Chinatown Road Train Member

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    Henderson, NV & Orient
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    Which company will you drive for?
     
    firemedic2816 Thanks this.
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