Hi, I am a newbie working on my CDL right now. For some reference, I am single and hometime is not an issue. I live in North Idaho, right next to Spokane, WA.
So I have been doing a ton of research and narrowed down my choices to a couple companies I hope to work for: System Transport based out of Spokane, WA, or Melton Truck Lines, out of Tulsa, OK.
Melton pays significantly better after 1yr experience, but System is right next door to me, and also pays pretty well, especially in the first year. So here are some questions I had for drivers who work/have worked for these companies.
What are your average miles as an OTR Flatbedder? What about Regional? Does Melton have Regional options (I know System does)? Do you have to deliver to NYC/Northeast alot with Melton? The more details the better, I would really like to know how much I could expect, realistically, to make as a young single male who doesn't mind running hard and has no hometime issues. Both as a rookie and going forward.
Also very important is, what pay method do these companies use? Hub, practical, or HHG? I am having trouble finding any info on that for either of them.
Any input would be much appreciated, tia!
Melton or System Transport for a rookie?
Discussion in 'Flatbed Trucking Forum' started by Feanor, May 27, 2017.
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This is what I know about those two companies. Melton runs east of I-35. System runs the west coast.
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They both run blue t660's too.
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Melton is a stick and brick hauler. Systems has more options for today and tomorrow. Systems for the win.
TheDudeAbides Thanks this. -
Did you also look at Leavitt's Freight Service and Jones Bros. Trucking in Missoula,Montana?
They both hire in your area. Most new grads haven't heard of either of these. -
Well I'm stuck in post falls for the long weekend and I have seen more system trucks than melton so I would say system.
passingthru69 and johndeere4020 Thank this. -
High cpm is a red flag to me. Why do some companies have to pay an above average cpm to attract drivers and still have a high turnover rate in drivers? Some drivers only make in the low 30 cpm's but still make a thousand or better a week.
Don't pay much attention to the cpm. Look at the length of hauls and freight lanes, etc. to get a better idea if you'll enjoy the job and still make a decent living.
Experienced drivers will tell you; don't pay attention to high cpm or sign-on bonus, because that's usually just a cover for something going on that's making drivers quit after a short period of time. Those sign-on bonus are stretched out in monthly installments over 12 - 18 months hoping the driver will stick around long enough to collect all of it.Last edited: May 28, 2017
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cnsper, LoudOne, johndeere4020 and 1 other person Thank this.
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fargonaz, Orangees, johndeere4020 and 3 others Thank this.
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Yea, they use the Flying hook for the backing portion of their road test. Saw that one day sitting there. Same truck 5 different times. Back into a spot. Set brakes, get out walk around and then leave. 20 minutes later. Same truck, different driver
DDlighttruck, Razororange and johndeere4020 Thank this.
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