Dock to driver program

Discussion in 'Trucking Schools and CDL Training Forum' started by RampRat, May 15, 2022.

  1. RampRat

    RampRat Bobtail Member

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    Not sure if the is the correct forum to post this question. I have started to do my research at all the companies I might apply in the future and been looking at all LTL companies like Averitt Express, Estes, Old dominion and Southeastern and been looking at the requirements for there "Dock to Driver" program. For this program they are requiring at least 6 months forklift experience and they will not train. My questions is how do you get the forklift experience if no one will give it to you? I have looked at warehouse companies and they require forklift experience just to get on with them as well.

    Anyone gone thru this issue and how did you get the forklift experience? It's like trying to apply for credit card and you have no credit history and no one will give you credit, lol!


    Thank you!
     
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  3. Banker

    Banker Road Train Member

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    C304A5D6-9922-40F0-964A-877FC87AA5BE.png 2E2A6231-B6EC-4613-A8A2-5B67F96F4DB3.png Look at ABF. They don’t mention anything about needing forklift experience. You should be able to properly operate a forklift in a couple hours. They have openings all over the country.
     
  4. Hawkeye72

    Hawkeye72 Light Load Member

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    Fedex Freight would be another option. I dont know where you are but in my area. We are desperate for dock workers. I wouldnt let not having forklift experience stop you from applying. Even if they say you need experience, i would bet they hire people without experience. Just depends on how much help they need.
     
  5. tscottme

    tscottme Road Train Member

    Never confuse "6 months experience preferred" for "6 months experience REQUIRED." You should get more accurate info calling the companies and speaking to someone than trying to do everything online. I worked for Averitt Express for 18 years. Good company, I liked working for them, but I was a good match and I only drove on a dedicated account for one of their customers. It's a good company for boy scout type of people, not cowboys. The goal is to work for a company that is a good match for you. To do that you need to speak to people working at the location you are considering doing the work you are considering and asking them good question.
     
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  6. RampRat

    RampRat Bobtail Member

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    Oct 6, 2006
    Dallas,Texas
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    Thank you everyone for the replies. tscottme, I did call Averitt Express Recruiter and they transferred me a few times because the Recruiters mostly answer calls concerning truck driving positions. After being transferred a few times they had me speak with a HR person and she mentioned that needed to have 6 months forklift experience to be considered.

    I know in my area there are a few places that offer Forklift certification but that doesn't guarantee that you will get a job anywhere. I have thought about seeking the services of a Staffing agency and see if they have any jobs that will training in getting the Forklift training, I'm sure some company is will to do it.
    I will keep everyone posted.

    Thank you!
     
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  7. Eddiec

    Eddiec Road Train Member

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    Check out Yellow Freight's training program
     
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  8. RampRat

    RampRat Bobtail Member

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    Oct 6, 2006
    Dallas,Texas
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    Its looks like ABF and YRC dock workers only work as needed, on call and on stand by. Might just throw my application for Dock worker with Averitt Express to see how bad there hurting for dock workers..... doesn't hurt to try, lol!



    Thanks!
     
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