Roehl Transport, Inc. - Marshfield, Wi.

Actually, if there were a whole lot of ticked off drivers looking for their chance to knock the company, then you probably should be concerned.

I like the company, but I am getting really tired of doing the roommate routine. It'd be nice to get a job that I could afford an apartment on.

 

I guess I'll be the non-ticked-off ex-driver that responds. I think I quit Roehl about 1 year ago, but I did go through their school and drove for them for something like a year and a half (during which time I did receive bonuses).

When I attended, Roehl was sticking students in apartments, which was paid before you showed up. Make sure you bring plenty of clothes, cash, and food if you wish (even though Wal-Mart's only a few miles away). There are plenty of places to eat if you like to eat out, and you'll want some of that money to go to gas. Bring enough laundry to last you the week, or be prepared to fork out cash to do your own laundry (the apartments I stayed at had its own communal pay laundry room).

Take some pens and paper, too, so you can take notes. I'm pretty sure they give you one of their Roehl pens--but in my experience, you won't want to rely on them as they're pretty cheap.

When you show up for school, expect at least 2 or 3 days indoors before you actually get out on their private driving range. Much of the time will be sent explaining how to drive the truck and why it drives like it does and you'll likely be going over the pre-trip information hundreds of times. Be sure to study the pre-trip information at night, as there's a lot to remember. You may or may not be on the road driving around the country your first week. The second week they'll be taking you on some tighter turns in town and they will likely ask you to do emergency stops and explain a few things while driving. Pay special attention to speed limits and such, because the little route around town had a striking resemblence to the route the testers took me on.

And remember... it's Marshfield, WI. Dress WARM, preferably in layers for easy transitions from the classroom to the outside portion where you'll be going over the pre-trip many times.

Marshfield's a nice town and if you're looking to have a good time you can. The casino in Nekoosa was like 45 minutes or so away. It's not huge, but it's a good time. Be sure to pay attention and have fun.

Don't bother going if your blood pressure is high or anything like that, as the first day you'll be doing the 'ol pee test (which isn't the drug test) which tests for things like diabetes and other easily detectable medical conditions.

The only instructor I didn't like in Marshfield was no longer teaching when I quit--rumor had it, he went back to driving. If you're not prepared for what's to come after school, don't get yourself in the debt. It's a complete lifestyle change and not for the faint of heart. But if you do end up liking it, you'll struggle to quit.

Best of luck.

 

I have had about all I can tolerate of them.

 

I worked for Roehl. I now drive a 600HP, 18 speed Frtlnr Classic, governed at 102--with loose leaf logs. I just contacted Roehl recruiting about comming back. I got more rest, was more relaxed at work, enjoyed the time from home more, was at home as much as I am now, could afford the health insurance---------and made more money with Roehl than I do now. I can't see risking everthing I've worked for since high school (36 years) by running illegal and running into problems for a weeks pay. Especially when it isn't as much.

 

I uploaded a few pics. Why does the number of photos show "0"?

 

I'm giving strong consideration to going with Roehl out of Indy...what do you think??

 

Roehl out of Indy? The nearest facility to Terre Haute is Gary. I'm sure they'd let you work from where you are if you can get permission to park somewhere, though.

 

I just graduated an eight week training school (N.C. truck driver training school,the longest running school and said to put out some of the safest drivers. Started in 1949.) Anyways i start orientation at ROEHL on the 16th of NOV. in Gary IN.(Flatbed)
What i am asking is i have read alot of good things and some bad, but most of the bad has to do with some of the disbatchers. can you ask to be put with one who has driven before and knows what is going on out there on the road? I don't like to job hop, and i know i have to put my time in before i can gripe about this and that. I just want to hit the nail on the head the first time.

 

Roehl's flatbed dispatchers all go out with a flatbed trainer for I think 7 days.

So they know some what about tarping and such. Remember, you are coming in during slow season. So freight will be light, they will give you van loads though.

Spring and summer will pick up and you will get better miles. Hang in there and take the good with the bad.

 

Thanks for that information, it puts my mind at ease about the bad things i have read about the disbatchers not knowing what truckers have to go through on the road and giving the drivers #### for not doing exactly what they want you to.