Beginning the Long Awaited CDL Process

You're right, Randy. There are some many different perspectives about OTR vs. local we could debate it all evening (I don't have that kind of energy anymore).

I guess the point I'm getting at is that the local guy who switches to OTR knows what he's giving up. If he sees that the grass isn't greener, he goes back to local driving. A rookie, fresh out of school, has nothing to compare OTR to. So he may last longer, because he was told you need to get some experience before you can get a regional or local job.

Ok, no more soap box. This thread is suppose to be fun!

To answer your question, I am in negotiation with a carrier. Paperwork has been submitted and I have been given a pre-hire agreement.

After the company did their background checks I was approved for hire pending I pass the company physical (which is basically an enhanced DOT). Before leaving the doctor's office, I was told that I passed and that the results were to be forwarded to the carrier. I'm just waiting for the company to give me an official date to attend orientation before I spill the beans.

I hate typing retractions. I prefer it to be official first.

 

Yeah, Sammycat, home for Thanksgiving with the family. My younger daughter will be moving to New Hampshire this weekend so it's nice we can be together. Next time the family gets together will be Christmas. I'll be the unknown variable then.

I promise I won't keep everyone hanging too much longer. Maybe I'll get the word tomorrow. Good or bad, I'll share the news.

 

I already had a laptop with a wireless card, and a small fridge. I gave up my CB some years back, so that's on my list. I have a small microwave in the attic somewhere, and a tv that runs on 12V and plays VHS tapes. I have an XBOX which will take care of the DVD fix.


First thing to remember is that when you company train, don't plan on bringing a lot of stuff with you. Consider yourself a visitor in someones home. But it's important to me to maintain communication with family and friends. So here's something to think about for under the Christmas tree.

Laptop: Mine is older and you know how they can be bulky. The wireless card is only good if you are in an area that has wi-fi which means you pay money. Downside: Stop at a rest area for a 34 hr reset, no internet.

I purchased an HP Netbook with a 3G modem built in. The monthly service is very reasonable ($35) and coverage coast to coast. It's very small but powerful and fits anywhere. (available through Verizon)

Blue Parrot hands free head set for your cell phone. A must have on the road. Designed for reducing ambient noise.

Maglight flashlight: Larger version for doing your PTI.

Cell phone: Should have T3 or T4 conectivity, and come from the same place the netbook comes from.

Until you get settled in your own truck, I wouldn't get carried away with buying too many toys. I mentioned these items because: they don't take up too much space, and it will keep you in touch with your home and you'll have internet access.

Things like the fridge, micro, tv, should be "fit" to your truck.

Additional Christmas items can be clothing for the road. Carhart is the brand I buy (jackets, shirts, pants).

Boots should be insulated with oil resistant soles (avoided smooth bottom boots).

Work gloves

Motor carriers atlas, spiral bound.

Truck stop guide: locate all truckstops accross the US.


That should get you started. IMO the communications gear is a must have because staying in touch is a must. Clothing, the atlas and flashlight you'll need in training anyway.

That should keep Santa busy.

 

Companies. They sure do move at their own speed.

I have the pre-hire agreement. That was followed up two days later with an offer to come to work conditional on passing their physical. I went for the physical on Monday (another DOT ). Passed no problem. The information was forwarded to them late Monday. Received an e-mail Tuesday telling me that my paperwork is being by reviewed by safety. Yesterday afternoon they contacted me looking for my documentation regarding using a CPAP which didn't get sent from the doctor's office for some reason, so I had to forward them a copy.

Now I sit.................waiting for word. With any luck I'll know before the day ends.

This is stress.

 

Happy Thanksgiving to all of you that have been reading along!

When you sit down at your table for dinner and thank God for all you have, take time to remember those who can't be with their families this Thanksgiving. Call those who can't be with you (if possible). It will brighten their day, and they will feel your love.

God Bless all of you.