Recent CDL grad: roehl or swift to get experience?

I'd go with Melton. You'll run coast to coast with Melton.
You'll be well trained at Melton also.

 

I 2nd Melton. I think it's always better to start out on a spread axle flatbed. You'll learn how to properly back in any situation not shown in trucking school. Also, being in flatbed makes you more sensitive to load securement should you switch to dry van or reefer. If good money is what you're looking for, flatbed or reefer as a rookie is the best way to go. To maximize your money, you'll have to get good at utilizing your time....that's in any sector of trucking.

 

Counterpoint:

If you went with Swift -- you could park your rig at their terminal in Jonestown, PA -- just up the road from your location:

Swift Transportation Jonestown, PA Terminal

This would immediately solve your problem of safe, legal parking for your truck during your hometime. You could also have repairs/maintenance done while off duty -- so while on duty -- you are running & (instead) making money.

Also -- that terminal performs FOUR different freight types:

• dry van
• refrigerated (aka, "reefer")
• intermodal
• dedicated

So while there....if you got bored with one type of freight (or....realized you just don't like it) -- you still have other types to try & learn....AND ALL THAT WITHOUT THE HASSLES OF CHANGING EMPLOYERS.

Meanwhile -- Melton is a "one-trick pony" (flatbed) -- so if you try flatbed securement.......& decide it just isn't for you -- well...then you're stuck with changing employers.

Changing employers during your first year as a driver is something you want to avoid -- especially in the current CDL job market.

Think about it....

-- L

 

Yeah, if money and miles aren't on your list of priorities, then go with Swift.
@bryan21384 and myself have both done flatbed and the money was good and the miles were excellent. In your case, Melton is an excellent starting place in your new career.

 

Follow-up:

@Moosetek13....a member here on this Forum...drove OTR with Swift for years (& also -- retired from Swift) -- & never saw a need to leave for another carrier.

He might well be able to answer any questions you may have....about life on the inside, driving for Swift.

-- L

 

Keep us posted on this new journey in life!