Attention all company drivers!!!

I guess you prefer an automatic to leave one hand free....

 

This is funny.

God bless every American and their families! God bless the U.S.A.!

 

I have read and heard of thousands of complaints over my 35 years OTR trucking. I feel it is time to write a few words about trucking companies/today's drivers and what I feel is part of the problem with driver complaints.

Firstly, truckers today are not what they used to be back; say in the 60's to early 90's. Back then drivers didn't take the stuff from companies like they do today-in my opinion, and from what I have and do hear everyday. Many driver complaints are due to the fact that many are desperate for jobs and think they cannot afford to stand-up to companies, dispatchers, shippers/receivers, recruiters and the like.
I will say that from day one, a driver needs to let them know that they need you and you don't need them. If you don't, they will take advantage of you until you leave. You may say that is harsh-well it may be but do drivers actually think companies love them, care about them, are really concerned about their families? No, not at all so why try to go along with that fake saying you always hear-"we are all family here". My approach was, and is- good, but I don't want to be part of your family. Do your job and don't be chummy with any company, let them know exactly what you will and won't do before you even get in their truck. They won't hesitate to fire you over any little disagreement/mistake . Remind them that trucking operates on two-way streets and they don't only go in the companies direction.

When you get to an orientation, ask what they pay for this and that, and watching a shipper/receiver safety video, sweeping out trailers left dirty by someone else, etc. That's your time, and you need to be paid for it as I am. That will tell you what they are like before you even start with them. This will avoid complaints and disagreement later-right? If they go back on their word about paying-leave when it is convenient- and tell them trucking companies are a dime a dozen. Always keep the back door open and never get too comfortable with any company.

When they tell you our dispatchers are former drivers, or a dispatcher tells you that, say "I'm sorry you/they had to take a step-down in the industry". When they tell you in orientation that they give you 30 days probation; say "thank you, because I'm giving you two weeks and if your no good I'm getting rid of you". If you don't let them know where you stand and that you are not going to take their stuff-its your fault and no reason to complain later.

Also, never sign anything that says you will pay back this or that later , if they want you bad enough they can do without, otherwise don't even waste your time with them. Get a cash advance every week as soon as you can-I had several companies go under while I was on the road in their trucks so get as much out of them while you can.

Companies often threaten drivers by saying this or that goes on your DAT record; well,
DAT is nothing but a private company that sells unconfirmed driver data-no part of the federal government, no authority, only a company that had to change its name due to a bad reputation-no need to fear them creeps. Do, say and ask what it takes to keep your dignity against trucking companies.

 

I just started a lease purchase program and am fairly certain I got a lemon. Was in the trukk less than 3 weeks and it already needs a $13,000 repair which I do not have. I have been in California for the last 7 days and apparently if I want to get home and rid myself of this company I need to bobtail to Illinois on my own dime. Any suggestions?

 

What is wrong with the truck?

 

DEF issues. Was told trukk needs a new "1 box". Was told it's a $10,000 part plus labor and whatnot.

 

DEF leaks or contact with skin can be hazardous to your health. If they knew this and sold the truck to you anyways, then I would tell them, it has made you sick and are going to see a doctor and file a lawsuit against them for risking you to a health danger and your contacting your lawyer to see what can be done...

 

10 4. Thank you

 

I like the way you think....

 

Thirteen thousand could purchase a decent DOT inspected cabover that you can do most of the work on yourself and own it. Thats the way I see it. Get home, drive a company truck until you save enough for a cabover and don't owe anyone anything-ever.