Newbie pay

Agree with you, as a current Teamsters member, but the topic of unions is kind of a hot button issue around here. Think the ultimate issue is stagnant wages in the industry for 30 years. United we prosper, divided we beg

 

I think it depends on the company. I've only been driving for 5 weeks now (flatbed). I'm home weekends and have avg so far 1050 to 900 take home a week. That's around 2700 to 3100 miles a week. Not bad in my opinion for someone new to the industry.

 

I've always believed that you make the difference in what you make in this business. If you are willing to work hard, keep your head down, and the doors shut, you really can do OK in this business. Doesn't matter what company you sign on with, there are always going to be things you like and things you don't like. You'll always want more miles. As for when you're just starting out, of course it's going to be slow going. The planners at your company don't know what kind of driver you're going to be, so they don't do a lot of pre-planning on your behalf cause they just don't know when you'll be available. Be patient, they'll soon realize what you're about and will treat you accordingly. Nothing is going to be handed to you in this business, you have to go out and get it. Keep doing that, and you'll see the rewards for your efforts. This business isn't just going to cut you a check and pat you on the back. You'll earn it and deserve it, or you won't

 

That is the load almost ever recruiter and dispatcher gives their new drivers. Before the year is up, 100% of the drivers that hear that are out the door and on to another job. It sounds good, but it just don't cut it. You know a lot of used car salesman have a rap that sounds good too.

Those union jobs have a turnover of 5%. Union companies have a far better safety record then the best of the mega crap. You almost have to wait until someone retires or dies to get a union job. It seams people vote with their feet.

 

I never will either. Mostly people who don't know any better because they live in Right to work for less states and have been spoonfed anti Union propaganda their whole lives. I had a guy go on telling me how he didn't need to pay the Union to speak for him. I told him thats great. At the time I think he was driving for like 15 year, I was driving a little over 1. I made more, had WAY better benefits, got OT, and and had a pension building. I'll never understand the SIMPLE math with Union vs Non Union jobs. More money, better benefits, a layer of security. Is their REALLY any question which one is better? LOL! Can't fix stupid I guess.

 

I don't know personally. Started @ 38 cpm which seemed decent to Stevens or England etc. Up to 41 now within my first year with new co and have heard some majors cap at that. Home 2 days a week too. All depends what you find. Good luck!