Apply to multiple companies or just the desired one?

I understand the hiring process can take some time, especially for recent grads. Every carrier uses their own BG check service which itself can take a few days or so.

If an application process is taking too long & you know your records (DMV/Criminal) are clean, should you start poking around other companies? I recently even received a Twic card, so I've passed a federal BG check...I've asked the assigned recruiter at the company I've applied to, how long the hiring process would take & didn't even get a range. If it's been over a week & all the requested documents were sent out, after a follow up, is it a bad career move to contact another recruiter & apply? I have a list of companies lined up with specific questions for the recruiters but I started at the top of the list & now am waiting - maybe impatience is just a bad habit? Any recent grads can share how long the hiring process was for them would be appreciated (put my mind at ease...somewhat)...thanks

 

I am going to repeat this .... APPLY to every one you can, and then see who offers you a job.

Because applying to one is not really time effective.

 

Very glad to hear this because I was starting to think there was something off with how much time it's taking in silence unless YOU follow up & I hear there's a shortage of drivers out there, meanwhile felons are being hired (Felons Finding New Future In Trucking Industry) which I have no issue with (and depending on the crime, people deserve second chances) but I have a clean record (driving+criminal), graduated top of the cdl class & it feels like I'm the felon here not getting a word back - guess it survival of the fittest out there as usual...DOggy Dog world... thanks for the supportive words

 

Apply and accept best offer that is approved in a timely period

 

Really depends upon how badly you need a job. If you've got time, you can apply to your preferred company and see what happens. If you need to get to work ASAP, then apply everywhere and then take your pick from those interested in hiring you. Funny thing about this industry (well, not really...) is that everybody is different, and the view is often different from the inside vs the outside looking in. What works for your buddy may be a horrible fit for you, and recruiters like to blow smoke up your rear to entice you to go to work for them. In other words, that company you think (from the outside looking in) is perfect for you may be the worst fit once you're inside...while that company you didn't think much of from the outside might be the perfect fit for you if you gave them a chance.

In the end, do what you want because only you knows what you're looking for...and what you think you're looking for today as you enter this industry may not be what you'll want once you gain some experience and figure out what you like and dislike about the trucks, travel lanes, types of freight, types of trailers, customers, etc...

 

appreciate all the support, feedback & push to apply to not only my top pick (and wait around whistling into the air) - what's the typical time-frame of getting an interview or acceptance (I have a clean DMV, No criminal record - even though ex-prisoners/felons are getting a second shot now in trucking, top of cdl class, trained on 10 speed manuals)...Trying to gain experience, top miles - aiming at Flatbed for the exercise. I have been told by recruiters 1 week is standard but should be quicker & got to response about time frame from another person...Seen on various threads that it can take up to 1 month (Walmart, FedEx apparently) to get everything processed...

 

Some trucking companies simply take longer to give an OK.

 

completely understandable but just like when you meet a girl for the first time & reach out, being left in the dark in silence can get the worst of ya!