Need some career advice

Going OTR is certainly more than a job. It's a real lifestyle change. Compared to your current job though it's pretty easy. In fact, it's too #### easy to put on 20lbs your first year of driving! I made a tad over $40k my first year. I think that's typical if you don't take much home time. After two years OTR, you should have an attractive enough resume to get that local job. However, in my area of the country at least, the best local jobs require more than just dry van experience. Hazmat, tankers, doubles, etc. are the best paying local jobs. Does your girlfriend drive? I trained with a married couple who put their stuff in storage and teamed together for a couple of years and banked a ton.

 

First and foremost if your girlfriend isn't on board 100% you and her will never make it. It takes a very special woman to be with a trucker.

 

Try this one http://oakleytransport.com/drivers/faq/ stay specialized & keep your record clean if you want the good jobs and if you like to stay local driving you may have to move to TX they have the most local jobs that pay good wages Good luck & Happy Hunting

 

Go with flatbed or tanker for the best money.
Melton Truck Lines and System Transport both have APU's & Melton has a rider program.
Tanker is hit or miss on hiring; never know who is hiring new CDL grads; many do but don't advertise.
Schneider & Prime do hire new CDL grads for tanker.
Put your location on your profile and you might get some good leads on tanker companies.

 

Typically 30-40K your first year as a new CDL driver is realistic. You'll want to consider more than just take home pay when choosing a company. I would recommend choosing a company that is going to continue your training when you come out of school with a company trainer. The schools really give you just enough training to pass the tests for your CDL. Also consider if possible choosing companies that have terminals close to where ever you choose to call home, eventually you will want/need a break from the truck and OTR driving. Getting you home to say Florida for a company based out of Minnesota for an example can be tough. Also look for companies that offer paid vacations, medical/dental/optical benefits. Most companies offer benefits after so many days of employment. Look for companies that have APUs on their trucks, most will give you hell and even run you off if you idle your truck burning their fuel while trying to stay comfortable enough to get a good nights rest. Learn as much as you can about a company you're considering before agreeing to sign on, talk to as many of the drivers for that company as you can first. Good luck, be warned, the OTR type driving is definitely a lifestyle and it's not for everyone. I've been doing it for 12 years now and still love it. I know I've given you alot to consider all at once, but I assure you that making an informed decision on where to work will save you alot of unnecessary heartburn and sleepless nights. Good luck and welcome, the industry does need new drivers.

 

Sounds like you got a good gig now.... i'd ride it out and save up be ready for when the bottom drops out..... unless you saw tix to costa rica and relocation brochures