Newbie needs advice

Need a little more info like are you married w/small children at home. If this is true I wouldn't get into trucking until they are older. The first six months of driving is the roughest financially simply because at least three of those months you are riding with a trainer making anywhere from $350 to $450 a week. The next three months you are playing catchup. New Drivers usually get crappy miles during this time while they are proving themselves. The next six months will get better after a driver proves themselves to be reiable and don't have any major accidents. The real average for a new driver during for their first year is around 30k in the first year. Also the time of year plays a important part in the miles you get. Usually January thru March are the slowest time of the year. One thing I do suggest if you decide to go thru with this and thats get all your endorsements. This gives more employment and load options.

 

Agree! Need more info about your situation...

After school I went with Schneider, dedicated team account (I think that was lucky, minus the team part). Made about $700-780/week after taxes and was home every weekend and some days for a bit. Sleeping while the truck is moving takes a bit getting used to. If you have a family or just got married... forget it. Overall, first year in trucking is not too nice but you learn a lot.

 

You live in an area that has a number of major carriers. Most carriers are honest and treat drivers as well as the drivers treat them. There are exceptions, but a good attitude goes a long way in this business. First year earnings should be in the $30-35,000 range with the first few months being the worst. Once you get past the training period and in a truck by yourself then your income should improve. Companies that pay per diem usually pay a lower mileage rate, although the money should be about the same as if you didn't receive a per diem. The main difference will be in your taxes. If the company pays a per diem, then you may not be able to take your standard deduction on your taxes. However, your taxable income should be lower. Neither you or your employer pay social security taxes on per diem. Crete is a good carrier and based in Nebraska. I don't recall whether they hire inexperienced drivers. Many start with Swift, Roehl, Millis, Covenant and US Xpress. There are a number of others. Most carriers require at least 1-2 years experience. That limits your options starting out. Once you get the year or 2 experience then your options will greatly increase. You need to stick with a carrier as long as possible. It shows stability and a willingness to work through difficulties. Many carriers won't hire drivers who have had more than 3 jobs in the last 2 years.

 

I believe BlackLions said if all possible after training and all for first 6 months go team, just for the plain fact of having a more experience driver to help you learn even more, then after 6 months see how you feel then go solo. Im looking at that option as i get closer to getting done with school, and i would think would make more on check due to the fact should get more miles.

 

Expect little, be happy with half of what you expected, know it will get better.

 

this is a great idea

 

the team idea is only as good as your trainer or lead driver. my first trainer thought it was ok to go to california with one headlight no power steering and overdue on a pm
i wonder why we sat on the side of the road changing fuel filters
I have learned pretty much everything i needed to know on my own and it stuck with me. I also have a patient dm to hold my hand
I can not even imagine living with either of my trainers for 6 months