Entry level alternatives to trucking

For me in sort of the same situation I have always enjoyed driving the big truck but when it comes to the money for time trade off it often isn't worth it. If you can find a balance of an amount you are happy with (yearly speaking) and a good company with equipment and lanes you like to run, you may change your mind. I did.

 

A series of seasonal jobs might work. All kinds of companies need good people but only for say the 4 month racing season. Then other companies need winter help delivering fuel or LP. If you have a clean CDL you have a ton of choices.

 

I absolutely love OTR. It's just that, I'd rather do it on a motorcycle. Just ride out 4-500 miles, find a mom and pop joint with good food, throw back a few adult beverages and go to a motel.

 

Try some expedited companies and drive cargo vans.I've seen some really nice ones fixed up on the inside for comfort. There's at least a dozen major expedited companies, including Panther Premium. Google for more. You can run 48 states if you want to.

 

I talked to a cargo van driver one time at a truck stop in Kentucky. He had a van similar to that brown one above in the picture. His was also brown in color. He was at the diesel pumps because his van had a diesel engine. He and his buddy bought the van and leased it to some company; when I talked to him they were on their way to California with a few boxes. Had a bunk that folded up against the wall and a generator for power when he was parked. Real nice setup.

 

Don't do expedite.

Go get a class A, go through the BS training, get on the road for a year and then find something local where you live.

You will do a lot better.