How hard is it getting into LTL?

Very hard . Depending on the location some terminals won't hire you unless you know someone. Places like xpo are a bit easier

 

It's really not that tough.....it just depends on their needs. Good luck.

 

It's a local job, so it's completely dependent on your location. And your timing matters too. Positions open up, so you need to be there when they do.

 

It seems like most LTL carriers let positions sit open for a while and collect applicants, particularly when they don’t desperately need the help and there’s a lot of quality applicants out there. Don’t let it discourage you, keep applying and be patient.

Make sure to consider applying for smaller LTLs as well. Dayton Freight and Midwest Motor Express are both hiring in your area, both paying 77cpm for linehaul and $32/hr for P&D.

 

Market is down, freight is down, election year too. Most ltl companies are staff heavy right now. Not the best time to get in, even if you do a layoff is a possibility.

 

I second this. Put in an application to all the companies you can find but this is one of the worst years for freight in general. Even if you do get hired on, there is a good chance you will be laid off before Christmas. Hang tight until the economy starts showing signs of recovery.

 

I got in pretty easy, but I got in at a time they were desperate for help. It was an employees market back then.

Now it's an employers market. Things are more stringent now. Standards and requirements are stricter and higher. So you need to make some new contacts who are in LTL, someone you can use as a reference.

If you don't have your Hazmat, Doubles/Triples and Tanker, you need to get that yesterday.

I would apply with Saia first. They always seem desperate for help. They can't keep drivers at that company though. Most drivers dont like the driver facing cameras.