Newbie Looking to Run Western US Solo OTR - Advice Appreciated

System transport is flatbed or twt is reefer both have training and west coast routes

 

Jim Palmer Trucking has what you want.

 

You could look into Interstate Distributors as well. They focus on western 11 with both dry van and reefer. You may need a CDL before going there, but there are plenty of cheaper schools out there. Look into FAFSA and PELL Grants. http://www.thetruckersreport.com/trucking-school-grants/trucking-school-pell-grants/
I am getting out of the Army in 2 months and was able to get my CDL through a program offered using my G.I. Bill and will start at Interstate right away. I will be running the western 11 and Canada, but I am in Tacoma, WA. I know they have a main terminal in SoCal as well.

I hope this helps and good luck!

 

Do you drive for JPT ?

 

No, I haven't driven for Jim Palmer.
They have what the OP wants; cdl school, fancy trucks set up for driver comfort, option of running Western states.

 

I think it will be a great fit as I had some inner questions so who answered them but Mr Darrel Wilson the CEO himself. So far I'm impressed and look forward to getting on .

 

I don't know of any companies right there in cali that will help you get your cdl and then turn you loose with a truck on the grades out there without going with a trainer. Even if you go through a 4-6 week school. I'm sure you know this, but , driving an 18 wheeler out there in your neck of the woods is as different from a car or even straight truck as night and day. Donner, whatever that mountain up north on the 5 headed to portland, cabbage patch, or even the one dropping down into ontario from Barstow you can get in trouble real quick. The reason that i'm saying this is simply cause you can be a natural , the best driver since me , hahahahahahaa, but all kidding aside you have to pay your dues before someone is just gonna hand you over a quarter million dollars worth of equipment and freight. I know how anxious someone can get to get out there and put the hammer down and woot and ride. Been there done that, but please consider the following statement. Your gonna come down 1000 hills to slow, but you'll only come down one too fast. Learn your trade then get out there and do your thing. I wish you the best and safe travels.
You might want to look into Gordon I think they are out of washington state, or knight, i know they have great equipment and right there in the valley south of sac. Hope this helps you out!

 

http://www.deckertruckline.com/driver/

Seems like I remember them having a training program but could be wrong.

EDIT: Looking at their website again, seems they do take recent CDL school grads

 

Go with any company to get started.
Roehl
CRST
Swift
It's not important; your first company is just to get started and will only be there a few months.