Good Truck Driving Companies for New Drivers?

Discussion in 'Experienced Truckers' Advice' started by califtrucker, Aug 20, 2012.

  1. califtrucker

    califtrucker Bobtail Member

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    May 8, 2008
    Denver
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    I am going to a job fair tomorrow, what, in your opinions, are the
    best companies to work for, starting off? I am looking for over the
    road, since I hear it pays the most. I am 42 and clean driving record.
     
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  3. Houndstooth

    Houndstooth Light Load Member

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    Jun 12, 2012
    Phenix City, Al.
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    Mcelroy Truck Lines is good.
     
  4. califtrucker

    califtrucker Bobtail Member

    19
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    May 8, 2008
    Denver
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  5. geargrinder

    geargrinder Medium Load Member

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    Nov 23, 2006
    More than likely waiting.
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    I've come to the conclusion the only way to evaluate a company is to look at their benefits. Garbage benefits, generally mean the company doesn't much care about their drivers. As an "acid test" look at what the employee's contribution is to health insurance. If insurance is over $100 a week for you and your family, then they view you as an easily replaceable drone.
     
  6. road_runner

    road_runner Road Train Member

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    Mar 26, 2012
    Montucky
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    I drive for USF Reddaway. I rarely leave the state and I am home every day. I make 39 cents a mile which amounts to $1800 on a good paycheck (every two weeks). Or $1300 on a bad check. Geargrinder is right... Your benefits will really be a good deciding factor on a good company. For me personally, it is a tie on how you are treated and what kind of benefits you get. Hope all works out for you though. Good luck.
     
  7. Keyster

    Keyster Light Load Member

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    Jun 15, 2012
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    If a trucking company has to resort to attending job fairs, it probably won't be "good".
    But then "good" companies aren't hiring/training rookies right now.
    Can you afford to live in LA on $1500 a month for the next year?

    Swift seems to be the best starter company IMHO only because they've gotten so efficient at churning and burning newbies. They've got tons of resources and terminals everywhere. Driver turn-over is baked into their business model...others just turn-over drivers.

    http://www.youtube.com/user/yourboyethetrucker/videos
     
  8. chompi

    chompi Road Train Member

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    Jun 21, 2008
    Deland, FL
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    I would personally recommend Central Refrigerated. I have driven for them and the number one reason I recommend them is because on many occasions they have gone above and beyond to help us out with whatever we needed and make sure we succeed. I have also seen this numerous times with other drivers as well. Central is large enough to keep you busy yet small enough to treat you like a human being. They are not a mega-carrier! Pay is average and equipment is the best in the industry. They also have their own school in which you can get your foot in the industry with no money upfront. Yes you have to sign a contract but I would personally rather be on the hook with a trucking company than a bank or even worse, the government! Provided you pass the test at the end of your training you are guaranteed a job! No brainer!

    Good luck...
     
  9. califtrucker

    califtrucker Bobtail Member

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    May 8, 2008
    Denver
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    Hmm, according to the ad, truck drivers across the U.S. were in great demand...
     
  10. 123456

    123456 Road Train Member

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    which ad,

    have a link ?
     
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