New to pulling reefer and have some questions.

You will pay lumpers a lot doing reefer, it's just how the game works. Not only do they unload you, they scrutinize and inventory every box that comes off your trailer. They normally do not take cash payment, only e-checks and sometimes an EFS check or ComData check. Just pay the lumpers when they are done and enjoy the nap while waiting!

Reefer loads generally have set appointment times and it's normal to show up within 2 hours of that set time, any earlier and they might tell you to come back, which can be a problem if there's no parking around and you're in an urbanized area.

 

Dependimg on the reciever you can sometimes get in early. Just call them and tell them when your appointment is, but you can be there early at (date and time). Sometimes they will say Yeah, no problem come on in.... Other times they will say No, only by appointment.

The reciever will let you know if there will be a lumper fee and how much it is. Some places give you the option to lump your own load, this can be an opportunity to make some extra cash. I have lumped my own load a few times amd then I make out a reciept for 50% to 75% of the amount the lumper was going to charge. This receipt is turned into my company as a cash expense and I'm "Reimbursed" for that expense on my next paycheck. Not all truckimg companies will allow you to lump your own load AND bill it to them, so ask your company before you try it. And lumping can be ALOT of work if you have to break down the entire load, so be sure you know what youre getting into before you do it.

 

The million dollar question is, why did you leave tankers??

 

Definitely call the receiver to see about an early arrival. If its a WalMart, that's not only a hard no, but a fine/fee assessed to your company for arriving more than 1 hour early. Everyone's policies differ.

Usually the first load out, the companies will give you one with extra time built-in to see how you handle it. Are you going to take your time shopping at every strip mall along the way, or are you a go-getter and going to call to see about an earlier appointment? That's what the will be looking at, and your future loads will be scheduled accordingly. Choose wisely.

 

It’s been a while but Proctor &Gamble loads were really picky too.