CDL in hand... Now What ? Decision time, that's what...

Thanks for taking the time to document your journey. I've followed your posts with keen interest, and am always encouraged by your positive spin on what could have been perceived as discouraging events. My apologies if my post appeared to be negative; that was not the attitude that I meant to convey.

 

I do believe that is why some flatbed companies (BTC, McElroy, Cypress, Valley) to name a few have their drivers home on the weekends. You take the load home on Friday for Monday delivery

 

That's more of a regional thing I think. I run Midwest Regional for Roehl and that's what I do, home every weekend with a load.

 

I did not take it as negative. I could perceive your intent, especially with the smiley

I am glad that you posted it - it was a catalyst for me to think through the bigger picture.

Thanks again.

 

Glad you find the information useful. I certainly found this forum to be of great help as I was beginning to enter the trucking world.

At customer locations I have had a chance to talk with drivers who work for other flatbed companies such as TMC and Maverick and it seems all are similar in many respects. I think the flaws, such as they are, are more reflective of the industry and not necessarily individual companies, although surely there are exceptions.

A key is to find a reputable company with a good training program, learn as much as possible, put your time in, and take the path that feels best for your situation.

Best wishes for success as you continue your journey.

 

Perpetual-
I am still here- not saying much- but have enjoyed reading your journey so far!
You seemed to have settled in quite well at Roehl!!!

 

Still reading and enjoying all the posts here. I'll have my CDL in about 3 weeks and really appreciate all the info and especially the photos. All the best to you.

 

Delivered the tubing to the consignee in Morton, IL Monday morning. Had to back up to an inside dock and they used a ceiling crane to unload. Took a little while but no big deal.




Next assigment was a pickup in East Peoria, IL, just 10 minutes away - a load of square steel bar stock to go to New London, WI.




Here is my steel tarp box loaded with 3 steel tarps, 2 steel papers, 8 coil cradles, and 6 thick rubber pads:




Stayed at the Appleton terminal last night and got to see one of the guys I went through orientation with. That was way cool.

This morning delivered the bar stock and then got deadheaded over 200 miles to L'Anse, MI to pick up a preloaded curtain side with ceiling tile bound for Holland, MI. Total miles more than 700 for this load. Not bad. The trailer had issues though; one of the marker lights was out so I got routed through the Iron Mountain terminal to get it repaired. Now at a small Citgo truck stop in Crivitz, WI.

Beautiful weather the last couple days, with daytime temps in the low 60's and chilly nights. Good sleeping weather

 

3 weeks, eh? Time to start making applications for a job

Good luck!

 

Yes, thanks; overall things are going well. I am feeling more comfortable handling the truck in different situations, both traffic and backing in strange places.