What am I missing?...

I would agree with your last 2 statements. Your 1st statement is probably true, but I would attribute it to lack of effort and research on the driver's part.

Hack what? Low pay, disrespect, crappy equipment, low miles, home time not as promised? It's not about hacking anything, it's about being smart enough to find a better alternative.

 

I agree,a good attitude goes along ways in trucking.I drove for a company with a bad rep but I get along great with everyone.Just do your job and no complaining.You take care of your dispatcher they'll take care of you.

 

"I think that there are tons of new drivers that while they may not be making huge bucks, are gaining the knowledge they need to achieve their goals by going with the large "Mega" companies."


Rookie's that find a solid, reputable employer are the exception. They either knew someone or were lucky.
It happens.

The vast majority of solid, reputable employers (who don't need to advertise for drivers) require at least one year of OTR.
Working for one of the more disreputable major carriers for a year or more is Trucker Proofing Ground.
You've clearly demonstrated that: a) you have untold patience, and b) you know how to drive
These more disreputable major carriers are in perpetual recruiting mode for a reason.
They serve to filter out the more than 50% who can't hack it past their first year, and those that can seek better employers after that.
Driver loyalty doesn't fit their business model.

 

1. It depends on what kind of deductions you have. The biggest mistake people make is getting a huge tax refund. You want to set your exemptions to as close to break even as possible. The goal should be to owe or get back no more than $200

2. I don't think teams make enough more to make it worthwhile sharing the space of a small closet with anyone, let alone someone I didn't know before.(My perspective only) Lots of threads here about teams not getting many more miles than a solo.

3. Can't help you there at I don't live in either place. I do know Watkins Shephard is a company with a pretty decent rep based in the NW (Montana I think).

4. Get every endorsement you can. It never hurts and can always help.

 

I must disagree. It's not luck. It's hard work, research, and presenting yourself (in person) in a positive manner. Not all reputable carriers require 1 year OTR.

Once again perpetuating the myth that one has to go through hell for a year to get a decent gig.

 

If you don't mind moving to Texas working tanks for schneider wouldn't be the worst idea for a new guy. It's one of the quick and easy companies to get on with but their not that bad. Tanker companies can be hard to get on at with no experience, and I think they are one of the better driving jobs out there.

Just something to think about.

 

Well I expected low pay seeing as how I was getting into a brand new industry. I was actually surprised how quickly the pay can go up.

Maybe I'm just lucky. I have never been disrespected, had crappy equipment or not gotten home when promised. Miles just depend on how the freight is running. I've rarely sat long.

I live in South Florida so my options are pretty slim. Local jobs want lots of experience but don't pay squat. Many OTR companies won't hire out of here. Your "go to" answer doesn't apply to everyone.

The mega carriers are easy to work for. They are very tolerant of mistakes when you are first starting out. The runs are easy. It's easy to get hired. The job is just easy. That's why I say if you can't hack it you are in trouble.

 

Certainly my answer does not apply in 100% of circumstances. No one answer covers everything. But how many people that come on the boards and complain about Large Company "X" did any research before hiring on? How many people do we see post that say they are deciding between CRE & Werner? Really? Those are your only 2 options? If you have exhausted finding a decent company near you, then you may need to hire on with one of the bigger companies. But, it better take more than a day or two before you say you can't find anything, or you didn't really try. (Not directed at you specifically vinsanity....)

 

1. 35-40K. Don't forget to take the per diem deduction. As of now that's 80% of $59 for each night you are away from home.

2. Personal experience tells me yes, but it depends on the company. Many companies do pay a higher rate to team drivers. You can get more miles. Finding a good match is another story. You never really know until you get in a truck with them.

3. Assuming you are talking about OTR, it doesn't really matter where the company is based out of. What is more important is their hiring area. I would think the Seattle area is a good area.

If you are looking for a smaller company that's more regional then you might want to consider moving.

4. Definitely get them all if you can, especially hazmat.