Going back to OTR

Due to the recession that's starting, seems the best trucking right now is refrigerated. Every other type of freight is slowing down.
~
Marten Transport has about the best pay structure I've seen in awhile.
No driver facing cameras either.

 

Mega carriers are ok.

 

I decided to apply with Marten, I would prefer to do cross country hauling but I cannot find many companies that would afford me the opportunity. I applied with Leonard's Express as well and I suppose we'll see who offers exactly what in the days ahead.

 

Advice?

Go back into it with a tough hide--the general freight market is slowing down--and so you may encounter more hassle than you would otherwise expect, getting back in.

Depending on who you talk to/sign up with--if it's been over 20 years--don't be surprised to be asked to do a "refresher"...with a trainer...for a few weeks.

You do have a BIG ADVANTAGE going back in--you're in Texas. The freight situation out there is probably as good (or better) as anywhere else--& regardless of the type(s) of freight you may find appealing.

Intermodal can be a pretty good gig--or a nightmare. It depends on the railyard(s)/shipyard(s) you're assigned to....& how well they have their act together (or don't). The railyard I worked out of was a fustercluck. I stayed there over a year--got my experience--and moved on to other pastures.

You don't say what CDL endorsements you have (if any)--or what type(s) of freight you've pulled--or whether you'd want local, regional....or OTR work.

The more endorsements you have/get--the more opportunities of course open up to you.

Here's a current (as of this writing) opportunity near you--that shows no mention of any req'd recent driving experience...:

USA Truck -- regional driver -- San Antonio area

-- Lual

 

I always thought the "pick your own loads" program at USA Truck sounded interesting.

 

USA Truck

 

Schuster
Coldliner Express