Any UK truckers here that moved to Canada?

That’s a big part of it for me mate. A lot of the boys I work with now who are a good bit older say they had chances to emigrate and didn’t and now regret it.

don’t doubt there will be long days and nights but I’ve never been one to run away or shy away from a challenge. Absolutely it’ll be harder for me but I’m reading about companies like bison that take you on as newly qualified and put you through a program of shunting, supervised driving etc before you’re thrown in at the deep end.

I’ve applied for an IEC which if I’m granted it gives me two years unrestricted to live and work wherever. I’ve got enough for the MELTS in savings and I’m finishing a masters degree this year which will give me time to save up further. The dream being to get the iec, come over do my MELTS and find someone willing to give me a chance for year which would give me a fighting chance for PR.

I really appreciate that and I will more than likely give you a message on here at some stage.

 

Did I understand that correct, instead of getting a commercial license in the UK and without experience you wanna start straight in Canada?
I don't know if the regulations changed and if that's possible. In 2006 when I started my paperwork, a minimum of two years within the previous five years were required.
There are cases where it seems like a certain species get a free ride on that.

 

You're welcome like your work colleagues say if you are given a chance go for it. I know someone else posted regarding min two years. Yes he's right but things do change and you may have a different visa to him. As regards to a free don't think anyone gets that here now! I probably did as my class one cost $2500 now its roughly $10,000 good luck

 

that is correct. Had said to others I’ve spoken to that id planned to get a class 5 job for a while, like I do over here, they said I’d be better just going for the class 1 straight away and that there wasn’t any restrictions (still not 100% that’s the case). I’ve read about the humboldt tragedy and as a result I’d completely understand why people would maybe be hostile towards someone suggesting they just come in and become a trucker, this was also a huge part of why I wanted a smaller scale driving job for a while.

As I say I’m not for one minute thinking it’s easy but I’m just exploring my options at this stage looking to speak to people in the industry.

 

Id looked at the cost and you’re right it’s 10k CAD which is about 6k gbp but I’d be willing to pay that. Just a lot of confusion around the two years thing. Had read in some places you need it and I’ve had other people saying you don’t.

I’m potentially coming over on an iec which if I don’t take now I’ll never get because of my age. Plan B would be to do my hgv here for 2 years to get more points then try for express entry. End goal is the same though so just looking at every bit of information I can get for now.

 

Good luck keep is posted on your progress

 

I will do mate, every chance I’ll send you a private message with questions as time goes on.

keep safe and thanks for the input and advice

 

If you have the chance to legally go straight class 1 then do it.
Find a reputable carrier with a good training program. Stay away from companies that use team driving in their training program.

 

Thanks. I’d be sure to do my homework. Do you mind me asking what your experience was like after getting your cdl? Maybe your first year or so?

 

Also can I ask what the problems with team driving is?
Thanks