So Much Information...

Discussion in 'Questions From New Drivers' started by nomadatheart, Jul 14, 2016.

  1. nomadatheart

    nomadatheart Bobtail Member

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    Jul 14, 2016
    Evans, Colorado
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    I've been looking into starting a career in truck driving. I realize there is a ton of information out there regarding company sponsored training and which company to go with. From what I gather the choices seem to come down to pay, location, home time etc. I am in Colorado and I know of the major companies that have training, it seems to be pick your poison with these places. From what I've read Jim Palmer, Knight, Prime all seem to be decent places and probably the best options considering my location. I have a few of questions if anyone has any input it would be greatly appreciated.

    1. I would prefer to do western regional runs after getting my CDL, any of the above mentioned major companies or one I didn't mention be a better option than the other?

    2. Are there any smaller companies that provide CDL training and are good to work for that aren't among those commonly listed?

    3. I've read tankers are the route to go considering the pay is better. I know Prime has a tanker division, do new drivers get to haul tankers or is there a time/experience factor that comes into play?
     
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  3. sliver

    sliver Light Load Member

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    Feb 17, 2015
    idaho
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    Do you want reefer, van, flatbed or tanker?
     
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  4. nomadatheart

    nomadatheart Bobtail Member

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    Jul 14, 2016
    Evans, Colorado
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    Tanker if the pay is better. But seeing how I don't have much knowledge of the three I wouldn't really know what would the best option would be.
     
  5. x1Heavy

    x1Heavy Road Train Member

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    Mar 5, 2016
    White County, Arkansas
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    Reefer is food products. And things that need keeping warm like paint in the dead of winter. Flatbed is a prize plum to have if you like throwing chains, straps and playing legal loading by weight over your deck and axles. Wrapping your load like a nice present is a billboard to all recognizing your professionalism. A tanker can be whatever you want it to be. Ive always liked them, just avoided the fuel ones because of the family history with them.

    Money will take care of itself as long you don't spend stupid money or go deep into debt.
     
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  6. FlexinTarzan

    FlexinTarzan Medium Load Member

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    Jan 8, 2012
    Stanfield, OR
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    Avoid Reefer only outfits.
     
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  7. nomadatheart

    nomadatheart Bobtail Member

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    Jul 14, 2016
    Evans, Colorado
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    I just found out Schneider has partnered with a CDL school in Denver. I'm going to go to a recruiting event in August. I also believe they have s tanker division
     
  8. jet460

    jet460 Heavy Load Member

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    Oct 8, 2011
    Modesto, Ca
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    Try Watkins Shepard
    WKSH dot com.
    They hire new CDL's.
    They have terminals all over the country, including Denver.
    Headquarters is in Missoula MT.
    Spent 2 years with them.
    Great staff.
    Great dispatchers.
    New Volvos.
    Training is fantastic, and very thorough.
    One of the best companies I have ever worked for.
     
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  9. nomadatheart

    nomadatheart Bobtail Member

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    Jul 14, 2016
    Evans, Colorado
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    Do they provide CDL training or just hired new CDL drivers?
     
  10. jet460

    jet460 Heavy Load Member

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    Oct 8, 2011
    Modesto, Ca
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    They are not a CDL school.
    They do hire new CDL holders.
    The big carriers that get the CDL for you, will be your owner for 2 years.
    Better to just pay the bucks and go to a private school.
    Some counties will pay for the school, if you qualify.
    It's done through EDD.
    That's how I got mine.
     
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