New here and need some help

Discussion in 'The Welcome Wagon' started by Rollins7, Jul 23, 2015.

  1. Rollins7

    Rollins7 Bobtail Member

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    Jul 23, 2015
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    I live in kentucky im turning 27 in november. Currently work in manufacturing for toyota but im looking for a better paying career. My dad has been a life long otr and coal truck driver. I have no tickets or anything against my license perfect background and no drug usage.

    Now my question is should i go the route of getting my permit and license independently or should i go through a school. I can do it on my own as ive been around it my whole life but which will give me a good chsnce at getting a job. If i go independently what hurdles will i need to go across to get my foot in somewhere thanks for your time and help
     
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  3. A_C_Cooper

    A_C_Cooper Light Load Member

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    Most companies are ruled by their insurance companies nowadays as far as who has the final say in hiring someone. Most insurance companies require that new drivers have 160 hours of training (the kind that most schools today provide.) without training that will probably be your biggest hurdle. that being said if you know someone that will hire you without training and you can get at least a years experience you should be ok. I'm in a similar situation except my driving record isn't as spotless :(. my experience is the best path you can take is to go to a community college that has a good CDL program as they offer the best training and employers will look upon that favorably and given your clean mvr you should be able to go to any starter company you like. to this end i would highly recommend Maverick Transportation after you graduate school. They offer flatbed and refrigerated positions. Also they have recently started a program with a community college where they sponsor your training and you work for them for a year I think.
     
  4. Chinatown

    Chinatown Road Train Member

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    A_C_Cooper has some good advice.
    If you can; attend a good community college CDL school and get all the endorsements. The best paying jobs right out of school are with tankers and some LTL such as Old Dominion.
    Old Dominion
    Schneider Bulk
    Superior Carriers
    Tidewater Transit
    Groendyke Transport
    Trimac Transportation
    CTL Transportation
    SVTN

    All these companies hire new CDL grads, even if the website may have different. No problem making $60K+ wiith these companies and after 24 months experience can make over $100K with Trimac Transportation "Elite Fleet."
    Also get your TWIC ID card. Google for nearest TWIC office.
     
  5. TROOPER to TRUCKER

    TROOPER to TRUCKER Anything Is Possible

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    A new hire for the company I work for got the CDL on his own. He ended up having to go to a school to get hired on and get offers from companies.
     
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