Approach companies as a newbie or experienced?

It will show any potential employer that you know how to drive, but won't count much when it comes to current experience. Most will only count your last 3 years. Essentially, you are a new driver with no experience is the way most will likely look at you. However, if you and a guy who just came out of driving school with no previous experience, you might edge the other driver out for the position. If it were me, I would push the previous experience, but they will take a look at what you have been doing since the last time you drove a truck. With such a gap, you will still need to prove yourself.

 

I agree with G/MAN. Use both your experience and your willingness to complete a refresher course to sell yourself. But don't expect it to affect your pay and such. I think I have heard of companies that will give credit for some of it after a period of proving yourself.

Being in the same situation and based on my research, I'll share what I have found but not yet tested. I have spoke with several over the phone and have drawn my conclusions based on that. I find that smaller and better operations give more value to old experience. If they can get you approved on their insurance and are comfortable with your road test, some may put you right on the road. Some of the bigger companies will put you through an abbreviated version of their training to evaluate your skills and cut you loose sooner than those fresh out of training with no experience. Many of the "Mega-Companies" or "BFI's" will require full training or may not even consider you. They are the ones making more off their scams than hauling freight.

I had one mega-company that would not take me if I got a refresher course and would not train me since I had a CDL. I don't think you need a high IQ to read between the lines on this example. This obviously reflects a what's in it for us mentality over training and hiring qualified drivers. IMHO, they did me a favor by showing their true colors before I made a bad decision.

My advice would be do lots of research, make calls and ask questions. When you find a company that fits you and your needs and reflects a mentality that is conducive to a good working environment go after them.

Florida often reduces a driver's options but you are far enough North, from what I have heard, that it shouldn't be bad.