Proper etiquette, quitting one company, starting with another?

Discussion in 'Experienced Truckers' Advice' started by Lennythedriver, Jun 30, 2020.

  1. Lennythedriver

    Lennythedriver Road Train Member

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    As I’m two years and two months into OTR truck driving, I stayed with the same company right out of school. I can honestly say I drove hard those two years! 144,000 miles and 139,000 my second year....Overall I like the company I drive for, but it’s nearing time to move into something new that will better suit my lifestyle. I remember hearing that if you’re going to drive for years which I plan to do, you must find a good match.

    so my questions are:

    1. trucking is not like other industries, but is it still customary to provide a two week notice? Or do you just clean your truck out and then go in and turn the keys in and have it inspected with no notice?
    2. I don’t want prospective new trucking companies to be contacting the one I currently drive for, how do you avoid that?

    Any other tips is greatly appreciated.
     
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  3. kemosabi49

    kemosabi49 Trucker Forum STAFF Staff Member

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    1. I gave notice and they appreciated it but some companies will pull you out of the truck as soon as they find out you are leaving.
    2. Companies are required by the FMCSA to check with your previous employers. And check your PSP report and the drug testing database. You will have to be registered with the drug testing database before they can check it.
     
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  4. Lennythedriver

    Lennythedriver Road Train Member

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    Thanks! Already signed up for the clearinghouse. But I’m kind of shocked that there’s no stealth way to apply for other companies without your current company finding out. They won’t be happy!
     
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  5. 650cat425

    650cat425 Road Train Member

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    ^^^^^ What he said.
     
  6. 650cat425

    650cat425 Road Train Member

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    Best thing to do is make sure you have enough money set aside and a game plan together so that if your current company cans you after the 2 week notice or the employment verification, you can get home and survive comfortably until your new job starts.
     
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  7. Redtwin

    Redtwin Road Train Member

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    I don't recall seeing an application where they didn't ask if it was ok to contact your current employer.

    Just say no and be ready to give a plausible explanation.

    I don't think it is unreasonable to say that current company has left drivers stranded away from home terminal when they found out driver was planning to leave...or route them away from the terminal for weeks, always under dispatch.
     
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  8. Chinatown

    Chinatown Road Train Member

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    There's no reason for truck drivers to give a two week notice.
    Properly turn truck in and leave.
     
  9. D.Tibbitt

    D.Tibbitt Road Train Member

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    Always give 2 week notice. Its just a bad look not to. When i switched companies 6 months ago, i gave 2 week notice . But before i commited to this company they waited until the last minute to call my ex company for references. It was the last step to getting hired and they offered to pay for my ride if ex company canned me on the spot. Luckily they didnt. But just always be professional about it no matter how bad they treated u
     
  10. Lennythedriver

    Lennythedriver Road Train Member

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    ####, What is this the cartel, once you leave they like hunt you down and shun you for life. LOL if you were a good employee, and you’re trying to do the right thing by providing them a notice, you would think most decent companies wouldn’t stick you like that. So I guess they get no notice. I’ll just clean out my truck and leave. Lol

    I probably should park my Chevy truck off their property as well. Wouldn’t put it past them to do something to it.
     
  11. 650cat425

    650cat425 Road Train Member

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    Come to think of it, you're right. I haven't filled out an app in 10 years, but I do remember that question.

    As for the issue of being kept away from the terminal or whatever, all I can personally say is to be prepared for it but dont necessarily expect it. Last company I quit was known for firing you the day after you turned in your notice. I actually worked the entire week, shook hands with some office people on my last day, and was told I'd be welcomed back anytime. You just never know how it's going to go.
     
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