Prospective trucker looking for advice.

Discussion in 'The Welcome Wagon' started by Harbinger117, Feb 24, 2013.

  1. Harbinger117

    Harbinger117 Light Load Member

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    Feb 24, 2013
    Ohio
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    I'm looking to start a career in the trucking industry. I have been to Roadmasters school here in Columbus, and have been accepted into C.R. England's new driver school program, and have been weighing my options. Roadmaster in particular excited me very much. But I looked up reviews of Roadmaster schools, and the amount of negative feedback they've received is overwhelming. C.R. England didn't fare much better. I also ran across many posts and threads that put down trucking in general, saying that it isn't worth it, and almost all trucking companies scam you or treat you badly. Now I'm just feeling very discouraged about this whole pursuit and am wondering if I should just drop it entirely. I'm just looking for some advice from guys with experience, recommendations on what schools to consider attending and what companies to work for. I would very much appreciate some feedback from experienced truckers.
     
    Last edited: Feb 24, 2013
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  3. critters

    critters <b>Late For Dinner</b>

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    Well first of all,it's what you make it,I've been doing this over 20yrs now and still love what i do.does roadmasters work with other companies? Prime has a good program.you have options to you,don't these folks with bad attitudes and out looks discourage you.your first year Will be the hardest.Good Luck.
     
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  4. dptrucker

    dptrucker Road Train Member

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    trucking is what you make of it. its not just a job, its a lifestyle. talk to differant schools and call recruiters from differant companies to see what schools they hire from. get your first year in to pay for school and get the experience. then better paying jobs open up for you. first year will be tough and confusing, but we all been there and made it, so can you. but with all the negativity that cr england has, i stay away from them. most of the larger training companies will have some negativity, but just find what you want and what company fits better for you. good luck and don't let others discourage you.
     
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  5. Harbinger117

    Harbinger117 Light Load Member

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    Feb 24, 2013
    Ohio
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    Thanks to both of you for your advice and encouragement. It is very helpful and much appreciated.
     
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  6. Chinatown

    Chinatown Road Train Member

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    Roadmaster is classed as one of the top 3 CDL schools in America. Take a look a Falcon Transport - van & flatbed hauling steel & auto parts. Prime flatbed or tanker is good. Schneider tanker is good. Melton Truck Lines is good. Stay away from dry van trucking, it's the lowest paying in the industry. There are several good coast to coast reefer companies such as Navajo. Roehl has an excellent reputation and offers flatbed & reefer also. The good companies are out there. You will be fine, you did the right thing by coming on here and asking questions.

    You won't need any money up front with Prime & you will need to stick with them for a year.
    Some of the companies I listed above don't have private training for aquiring a CDL, but will hire you out of Roadmaster.
     
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  7. superpet39

    superpet39 Road Train Member

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    Jan 27, 2013
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    IMO talking to different companies is a GREAT idea.

    BTW........Although My OTR experience is all of 4-5 trips at most......... i couldnt agree more with dptrucker's post
     
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