New Career ... From the beginning.

Discussion in 'Questions From New Drivers' started by Markus, Nov 10, 2011.

  1. Markus

    Markus Guest

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    Sep 26, 2011
    Westmoreland, NY
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    Jeff...what a nice note. Thank you.. I hope to switch over from northeast regional to over the road. That would then make me eligible to drive any of the lower 48 and/or Canada. so, if that ever happens...and I'm in your neighborhood...I'll send you a PM. Thanks again for writing....Mark
     
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  3. Markus

    Markus Guest

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    Sep 26, 2011
    Westmoreland, NY
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    Home for a very short 34 hours. Time enough to do some laundry, pay some bills....even shave and shower. Before long I'll have to add " mow the lawn" to my todo list.
     

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  4. Markus

    Markus Guest

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    Sep 26, 2011
    Westmoreland, NY
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    Home...for 34 hours. I just ran out of time....can only work 70 hours in 8 days...which sounds like a really full week....but..when you drive a truck....everything is different...the 8 hour work day is a distant memory. I need to learn how to manage my clock better...so I don't get caught in the middle of nowhere and have to shut down.
    But...on the other hand....I finally had a really good week(pay-wise). I haven't made decent money in several years.....it feels good to have earned something.
     
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  5. mickeyrat

    mickeyrat Road Train Member

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    Nov 24, 2011
    on my 30 min break
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    Was running I90 wb yesterday. Thought of you as I passed the westmoreland exit.Did you hear me shout hello markus!!!!
     
  6. Markus

    Markus Guest

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    Sep 26, 2011
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  7. KansasWhirl

    KansasWhirl Light Load Member

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    Oct 19, 2011
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    Good to see you still at it Markus!
     
  8. Boogers

    Boogers Light Load Member

    Hey Markus...I'm glad things are still getting better for you!!

    I'm at a Schneider orientation right now. A class of 21 is already down to a class of 16...in just 2 days. I really hope I can drive this truck well enough to convince these Schneider folks to hire me.

    I did some backing up and simulator work today and I didn't really do all that well. The only thing that makes me feel a little better about it is....nobody else really seemed to do particularly well either.

    My school never taught me double clutching on a 10spd and skipping gears as I down shift.
    I find out Saturday if I'm hired and going on the road with a trainer or not hired and going home.
     
  9. VTSharpshooter

    VTSharpshooter Light Load Member

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    Oct 29, 2010
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    Hey Markus, thanks again for the thread. I drive a bus now, never went OTR after getting my CDL-A but I still feel like I want to if I could afford it. May I ask about how much is a good week paywise? Stories about not making much money really make me think twice. Thanks again!
     
  10. Markus

    Markus Guest

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    Sep 26, 2011
    Westmoreland, NY
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    Was sent to Montreal Canada today. We have some good business with a large customer up here. I haven't been here since I was in college. I don't read French...and was a bit befuddled when I couldn't read the road signs, The GPS was on target today and got me to and from the customer.
    But. Listen to this...I was driving along with the traffic flow...4 lanes of traffic in each direction. Suddenly, the tractor trailer in front of me stopped! I couldn't believe it. He just stopped! I hit my brakes...and was sure I was going to collide. My guardian angle( you think I'm kidding?) was with me. I stopped with inches between my fender and the back end of the guy's trailer my passenger side mirror was pushed back about a foot. All the stuff on the bunks flew forward. A whole bag of pretzels emptied on the floor. When the other truck moved...I noted that he had missed his turn,,,,and rather than just go around tne block....he stopped. It was a miracle that I didn't run into him....and that a half dozen cars behind me didn't run into me. I was so glad to get back in the USA....where I can read the signs.
     

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  11. Markus

    Markus Guest

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    Westmoreland, NY
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    VTSharp. I can only tell you from my own perspective....and I may be way under what others are paid. But...keep in mind, we're starting out."newbies.... Entry level...the statistical turnover rate is nearly 100%. So, if you stick with it...even for a year or two...youll have achieved seniority. I think I will make about $35K this year....next year...I think it's reasonable to think I can come closer to 50k. It's all based on mileage. You'll probably do better as a bus driver...at least at first. .
    But...as time goes on you can double that....depending on the company you work for...but good money is available..but not at first.
     
    Last edited: Feb 24, 2012
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