To "B" or not to "B" (Anymore)

Discussion in 'Experienced Truckers' Advice' started by haulinasphalt, May 13, 2021.

  1. haulinasphalt

    haulinasphalt Bobtail Member

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    First off, let me start by apologizing if I have posted this in the wrong forum. I am a Class B driver with 10 years experience driving dry box vans and flatbeds with Moffett Forklifts, both auto and 6-speed manual and currently possess my "X" endorsement with a squeaky clean MVR. I fear my career may be sadly ending soon, due to a new workplace culture.

    For some time, I have been kicking tires (no pun intended) and seeing what's out there. The demand for Class B drivers currently seems to be not as favorable as the demand for Class A drivers (at least not in Central Florida) and the openings that I have found don't seem to pay very well. I have seen one or two companies that will hire a "B" driver and help them get their "A" CDL, which I am also very much interested in doing. I would love to get my Class A, but due to current financial restraints (baby on the way) and the almost guaranteed possibility I will have to go OTR until I'm seasoned, I am unable to pursue that possibility at this time.

    So, I ask, given my current credentials, should I stay in my class and keep looking? Does anyone know of any companies that may hire a Class B driver, with incentive to upgrade to a Class A CDL that would keep me local? As a last resort, would I benefit greatly from upgrading from my "B" to an "A" license, if I were to pay out of pocket? If so, are there any companies out there that may hire a new driver and keep them short-haul? As always, any advice is greatly appreciated.
     
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  3. Chinatown

    Chinatown Road Train Member

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    Yes, upgrade to Class-A CDL. Many box trucks require Class-A CDL.
    Performance Food Service in Orlando will hire with that Class-B CDL and you can upgrade later. Hopefullly Performance still has that program.
    Foodservice is hard work but the pay is way above average.
     
    slow.rider Thanks this.
  4. Chinatown

    Chinatown Road Train Member

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  5. haulinasphalt

    haulinasphalt Bobtail Member

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    Thanks Chinatown! I as well hope Performance Food Service still has that program. I'm not afraid of hard work, in fact, I actually prefer to be in and out of the truck (good exercise and keeps the clock moving.) Pardon my ignorance, as I settled for my Class B 10 years ago, due to time and financial restraints. It sounds like I might be limiting my options, even with an "X" endorsement, by staying in my class. Is that correct?
     
  6. Chinatown

    Chinatown Road Train Member

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    KoolShot Expedited may have something around central Florida.
    @Jenn72 aka Jethro aka Jebb will know.
     
  7. Chinatown

    Chinatown Road Train Member

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    Yes, get that CDL-A with endorsements and many more job opportunities will be available.
     
  8. Chinatown

    Chinatown Road Train Member

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    YRC Freight has a training program also. Been hiring like crazy all over the country.
    YRC Freight

    1265 La Quinta Dr, Orlando
    Some terminals, the ads say, have free health insurance for the driver and family.
    [​IMG]
     
    Last edited: May 13, 2021
  9. Chinatown

    Chinatown Road Train Member

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    FedEx has a trainee program for drivers with a CDL-A Permit.
    Not sure if the terminal near you has that program, but definitely worth checking out.
     
  10. Chinatown

    Chinatown Road Train Member

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    As for a new CDL-A driver having to go OTR in the beginning, that's a myth.
    Depends on the job market in your area. Many drivers have never been OTR during their career.
     
    Accidental Trucker Thanks this.
  11. haulinasphalt

    haulinasphalt Bobtail Member

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    Ah, that's wonderful news! You've given me quite a bit to think about (all good things.) I'll definitely look into the options you've provided above. Many, many thanks again for all your help. Cheers, friend!
     
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