New guy - just got my permit

Apply in person or visit the terminal to just ask questions to the terminal manager.
I think the applications are approved at a level above the local terminal.
Yellow has their own cdl school also.
First impression carries a lot of weight. A sharp, clean-cut driver looking for a job is a plus.

 

Here's the website for Yellow cdl school.
It's showing "No Events" at this time.
You can still be hired from a private cdl school though.
~
Tuition-free CDL Driving Academy - Truck Driver Jobs | Dock …
https://drive4yrc.com/yrc-freight-cdl-training-acade…

 

@mmohn --

Some counterpoints to the above....

While the LTL sector does offer some of the best-paying jobs in the industry (along with home daily) -- you can wait/sit on the sidelines for a LONG TIME....hoping that a worthwhile, steady gig will finally open up -- especially in the current overall flabby freight job market.

Something else to be aware of -- the equipment in the LTL sector often isn't in nearly the condition of what you'd find elsewhere (like with OTR)....and what you're asked/expected to pull/drive can be.....let's just say....sometimes questionable.

You also need to be cognizant of the fact that many runs in the LTL sector (P&D is an exception--but it has its own separate headaches) are ver-ry repetitive....so a guy like you who used to be a software engineer will probably stand a very good chance of getting bored VER-RY QUICKLY. NOOOTTT COOL.

Be aware also....that LTL linehaul is also a situation that involves "slip seating".....and thus, you're driving a different tractor on every shift. Hope you enjoy cleaning up another driver's trash/mess...

An alternative that could well help you get that driving experience much quicker (and thus--you're then able to sooner move on to bigger, better opportunities) might be something more like the following:

McLane -- recent CDL grads ok -- many route options available -- Tulsa, OK

The above will have home-daily options, in most cases. Those guys are always looking for good help.

You might also check with the other food distrbution firms in your area (Gordon Food Service, Sysco, & Performance Food Group are all possible examples) to see if they are hiring/training new CDL grads when you graduate.

Also: when you do graduate & get your CDL--go ahead, and GET ALL of those CDL endorsements: tanker, hazmat...& doubles/triples. In the current freight market--you will need them.

-- Lual

 

Really think about this, he has a job and his cdl is paid for plus he is accruing benefits, even if he is a floater for a couple years, he is learning the system, he learning the customers and gaining experience, so I would stick with the company and take your time.

 

Post #13 - slip seating or driving a different truck each day.
I've done that. Carry a package of disinfectant wet wipes and wipe down the steering wheel and gear shifter. Takes about 2 minuets of your time. Keep you eye on the goal; good paychecks and decent pension some day. Don't let little aggravations distract you from your main goals.

 

I am with the Pro Estes crowd. Sounds as if you have already begun building a name with the boss.

 

Estes is probably the best of the LTL sector. Any place that goes through drivers and has openings on the regular should be a red flag. Sometimes waiting a while and earning your keep is worth the effort. If it just a quick buck, then the others have that going for 'em.

 

Find a regional driving job, it is the best of both worlds

 

Pretty much ALL local, home-daily jobs are "slip-seat" jobs.

Get used to it.....

-- Lual

 

I jumped ship a few times, when I first started. 3 jobs in 3 years. Meanwhile the jobs I left improved with better pay, conditions, Trucks, etc. While I was still looking for greener pastures. Too proud to go back. The situation at Estes will change soon. Everything does. I’d stick with them, if you already fit well. Better than chasing other unknowns.