Ask A TMC Driver

Discussion in 'TMC' started by TarpWhisperer, Nov 30, 2015.

  1. TarpWhisperer

    TarpWhisperer Bobtail Member

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    Oct 11, 2015
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    Hey guys,

    Much like Gunners awesome thread, I will be sharing my experiences on here. More answering questions than anything, as often as I can. I'm new to company driving, and new to TMC, but I enjoy it a lot here, it's been a very good fit. I might be new, but I'm like a sponge when it comes to information, and had a very solid trainer. I'm already ranked number 4 out off the 31 drivers on my fleet manager board, above 30 percent paid driver, and in the top 150 in every category in the entire fleet (1400ish drivers). I'm not trying to toot my own horn, just staying this so that you know a bit about who you're asking questions. I served 8 years active duty US Army Infantry, and am currently furloughed from the railroad (Union Pacific), which is how I ended up here, driving trucks. Just paying the bills, the working man way, and actually enjoy it a lot more than I thought I would.

    So with that out off the way, all away, and I'll answer it to the best of my knowledge, or find out from someone that knows. Have a great day, and be safe!
     
    JOHNQPUBLIC, Puppage and farmboy73 Thank this.
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  3. mountaingote

    mountaingote Road Train Member

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    Have you figured out why trucks have a steering wheel and trains don't? :p:D Good luck in yer adventure in black...
     
  4. TarpWhisperer

    TarpWhisperer Bobtail Member

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    Haha yea. And thanks!
     
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  5. Puppage

    Puppage Road Train Member

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    That's great to hear. And, why not toot your own horn? You worked for it. I see TMC trucks all over Connecticut and it would be great to read updates on your adventure.
    Many safe miles.

    Pete
     
    mountaingote Thanks this.
  6. JMurphy1

    JMurphy1 Light Load Member

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    May 3, 2015
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    It sure sounds like you're tooting your horn... how long have you been with TMC and making "over" 30%? Me personally, I've been here 18 months and struggle to keep it at 30%, never been higher and was at 28% longer than I care to recall. I wouldn't be surprised to see it drop to 29% at the next certification... but that's me.

    I hope you can keep your pay up there, or better, for that matter. Stay safe.
     
    Highway Sailor Thanks this.
  7. TarpWhisperer

    TarpWhisperer Bobtail Member

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    My first snapshot was 30...... I've been here five months now, and was only 14 points from 32 my last snapshot. But I work fast, put five loads on the ground, with one on the deck over the weekend, every week. Also bought my own GPS to be able to compare routes for out of route. But a stated above, I work hard s and earn what I get. I also 100% do not idle, ever. All I can really say, so not sure why you struggle to make 30.
     
  8. dca

    dca Road Train Member

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    hmm some how I'm reminded on a daily basis that driver's are dime a dozen.. keep up the good work.
     
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  9. JMurphy1

    JMurphy1 Light Load Member

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    That is truly amazing. I have done all of those things as well (besides the GPS, I squeak when I walk).

    For fear of typing anything inflammatory I wish you continued success.
     
    Toona67 and TarpWhisperer Thank this.
  10. TarpWhisperer

    TarpWhisperer Bobtail Member

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    So you just go with whatever the Qualcomm spits out? Very rarely doors it have a shorter route than mine. Also, do you forced refuel?
     
  11. Highway Sailor

    Highway Sailor Road Train Member

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    There have been several new hire tmc drivers on here that post their daily stories about the job. They all start out great, then they die off saying nothing good about the company. It makes for good reading. You are new to tmc. As stated and I will agree you will not maintain 30 percent. Your out of route may be low now but you will be going into areas where you can't meet it. Winter is coming on, you will idel the truck below 10 deg. a tmc requirement. including weekend when you are out of the truck. You will start waiting hours for a reload on Monday mornings. Freight rates will drop and so will your revenue. Just wait till you take your vacation. And how about putting on or taking off frozen securement and tarps. Enjoy your time now because reality will be setting in. Been here 4 years so I have been around.
     
    Safari Joe, hunted and Toona67 Thank this.
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