Two questions: wages and wife ride along

Most companies have some sort of rider policy, most would allow a spouse. You will usually have to pay a little something to add her to the insurance. But most companies want you to have experience before they allow a rider, usually 6 months. Check around, you might find one that will allow her sooner. As to your first year income, that can vary wildly. Depending on who you go with, you will have a training period of 4-6 weeks when you are first hired, making slave wages of $200-$500 per week. After that, it just depends how things go. Your first twelve months after training you could easily see 40K, but read all over this board and you will find people who aren't making that.

 

All here allow a spouse and it costs you nothing - in Canada. Most long haul drivers who find a decent company earn around $45,000 a year in the first year or two. There are exceptions, of course, where you could find an awesome company who gives you a ton a miles and you earn up to $60,000 or you can find a nasty company who lets you sit a lot and you earn more like $25,000 a year. It's very variable and completely dependent upon the company for whom you work.

 

"Would anyone know of a company that will allow a spouse ride along in the first month of driving?"

this information is usually on a company's website. if it isn't, call them and ask. but most companies want a "student" driver to have more than a month's experience before they have the distraction of a passenger. also, don't expect $.40 a mile to start. that's extremely unlikely.

 

Their all right for the most part. Most companies do allow spouse rider programs at no cost but, you might have to sign a waiver stating that you or your spouse can't hold the company responsible for any accidents that your spouse may incurr due to being a rider. As far as what you will earn depends on the company and how much of their money you take to operate on. (advances) It's a good habit to put back a set amount each week for you and or your spouse.(food,clothing,souviners,etc.) If you do this at the end of the day you will put more money in your pocket and that's what it's all about. Some companies will also charge for advances. 2 to 3 dollars, that does'nt sound like much but over a years time it will add up to an extra paycheck. Hope this helps and somewhat answers your questions. Good Luck.

 

I have a crappy job, earn nearly $60k go home every night AND every weekend. It does vary a lot that's for sure....takes a little time to find the right "shoe." Good luck!