2 Quick Questions

Since im having to re-enter this field. And I know recruiters are nothing but con artists, figured Id ask here.

How much can I expect to make the first year? Ballpark.... I dont need 50K or anything like that but I am trying to pre-plan to see if its even worth it. I understand that im basically gonna be the company's ##### for the first year but I gotta do what I gotta do.

Can someone explain what per-diem really is? I know it has something to do with getting paid more and taxes and stuff but I have never had it laid out in black and white so I have no clue just what the crap it means. Everyone says stay away from it, is that the general rule?

 

your first year you could make any where from one cent to infinity.

part of your earnings are tax free in exchange for being a certain distance from your home and staying overnight.

 

It all depends who you go for work. I don't think theres is a ballpark figure and it sure isn't what the companies advertise. I know if I was going back into driving and was new I'd do my applications different than the crowd that's coming out of school. I'd try every avenue I could and that includes getting out there to the terminals and speaking to them face to face.

I'd stay away from a company that makes their money by hauling freight and look for companies that haul their own product. I'd check to see if they have drivers that retire and not some low life company that's going to use you and spit you out with a bad mark on your record. Those companies are still around but you won't find them on any computer. A good company doesn't need to advertise for new drivers.

 

If everyone were to do that, there would be no drivers for the freight to go to Walmart and other places.

 

I don't see you too concerned about WalMart getting their goods .

 

I could have used Sears, Best Buy, Target as an example.

 

Per Diem is basically the amount you are permitted to claim on your taxes for out of pocket meal expenses on the days that you are not returning home the same day. (EG: Louisiana to Detroit is basically a 4 day run; thererfore 4 X your per diem for that trip)

If your co pays you so much per day for expenses (like an expense account or a "float") or reimburses you that amount; they can claim the exemption, you can't.

 

Oops, that should read 4 day run out and back.

 

Great advice Gas Hauler!!

I assume you have been a driver at some point. If there are some local companies around you, try to get on as a switcher. What GH said about getting on with someone who hauls there own freight is correct. I don't know where you are located so I can not tell you anyone specific. If you were around here I would say someone like Harris Teeter, US foodservice, Food Lion, MDI or any company like that. I know for a fact that those 4 pay over $50,000 once you get to top pay (2-3 years). My company starts switchers out at $14.50 and moves them up to $16 an hour. Regular drivers can average $25 an hour easily.