LTL job for 21 year old with no experience?

Discussion in 'Questions From New Drivers' started by RobertFord, May 28, 2012.

  1. RobertFord

    RobertFord Bobtail Member

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    May 28, 2012
    Grand Prairie, Texas
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    As the title said I'm just trying to find a job right now, pretty badly, because I have bills I have to pay on and I've been having to skip on my payments, and stop on others, because I'm now unemployed.

    I'm willing to work somewhere, "lesser", as long as they will hire someone like me; clean records and no tickets, etc.
    I have no idea where to look and I'm getting kind of desperate now, I applied at Sonics..:biggrin_25511:
    I live in the Grand Prairie, Texas area and I'm looking for a full-time position.

    Thank you very much for reading this!

    EDIT: Didn't read the Forum's title "thoroughly" sorry for the misplacement!
     
    Last edited: May 28, 2012
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  3. GAlanFink

    GAlanFink Medium Load Member

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    May 8, 2012
    Bucks County, PA
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    Lumper maybe, Driver?... not likely. No experience with no CDL training tells me your desperation is putting you looking in the wrong places.
    No self-respecting Commercial Freight Hauler would hire a 21 year old to drive a $100,000, plus tractor.
     
  4. Gizmo_Man

    Gizmo_Man Road Train Member

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    Ok, first, you need to be properly trained in the operation of big rigs (class A CDL) or even "box trucks" (class B CDL). So I would recommend that you at least apply to a local truck driving school, and see what type of grants, loans or free training you can get, by a company sponsored partnership with a school. Class B CDL "may be" cheaper to get than a class A CDL, and you can always upgrade at a later time

    Now if this is a failure, you can always try walking into any LTL company, moving company, long haul/warehouse company, storage company, lumber yard, and inquire if they need workers in general, not drivers.

    sometimes, if you hit it just right, you can be hired as a day laborer, or on a part time daily basis. From there, they will get to know you and advance you to a more higher paying position, or heck, even sponsor you for truck driver training. Also, if they have any benefits package, this time in, can and should go towards that as well.

    It is still a rotten economy out there, but a job can be found/had, but an awful lot of shoe leather will be needed. As always, dress neatly, clean shaved, and talk clear, look the person square into the eyes, and keep a good attitude about yourself.

    You might do well soon, real soon.

    One other question, are you NOT eligible for unemployment benefits???

    Or did they run out??

    Are you bucking for the azzhat of the year award????

    No self respecting trucking company will hire him????

    Maybe perhaps you should look into your past, and see what you had to go thru to get a job, or did "daddy" hire you right outta the womb????

    Your lack of tact and compassion show what a azzhat you are.
     
    Last edited: May 28, 2012
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  5. Brandonpdx

    Brandonpdx Road Train Member

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    If I were in your position (young, no CDL...) I'd get on at UPS. They're gonna start you off as a package handler for about 8 or 9 bucks an hour, but if you do a good job for them and let them know you're serious about driving...it may take a few years but its one of the best paying jobs on the road. And they would train you.
     
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  6. ACH1130

    ACH1130 Road Train Member

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    Con-Way freight, and ABF both have truck driving schools. Its easier to get into CWF but ABF is better down the long road. I believe YRC (old yellow frieght and roadway express) is starting their own school soon too. It doesnt hurt to apply, or even apply as a dock worker and they will move you to a driving position
     
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  7. Gizmo_Man

    Gizmo_Man Road Train Member

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    this is TRUE.

    i have spoken with two different UPS drivers that come to my location for a pick up/trailer swap.

    they each pretty much actually went to UPS as package handlers at the age of 18??

    and each is now under 55 and can retire, as they have thier time in, but they have to wait a few more years, otherwise they will not get thier full retirement package. i think 58 is when they can both retire..???
     
  8. CenutryClass

    CenutryClass Road Train Member

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    While they might be one of the best paying jobs out there, it takes 15-20 yrs in most places to get a feeder gig. That's 20 yrs of earning potential lost, just waiting in hopes to drive a UPS T/T...Not very smart in my opinion.
     
  9. RobertFord

    RobertFord Bobtail Member

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    May 28, 2012
    Grand Prairie, Texas
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    Thanks for that, people seem to be like that towards me often just because of my age. They don't even know me either.
     
  10. Gizmo_Man

    Gizmo_Man Road Train Member

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    well then, keep expecting it, cuz it'll keep happening.

    try as i suggested, even a dock worker's job can open up doors sooner than you think.

    best of luck to you.

    you never answered my question though, are you eligible for unemployment benefits, or did you collect, and they ran out???
     
  11. chompi

    chompi Road Train Member

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    Deland, FL
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    Being 21 is the minimum for an otr driver. You have to start somewhere though. Like Gizmo recommended, do it right the first time and it will save you lots of time and money! There are many companies out there that will get you through school and training for little to no money upfront. They will pay for school, license, transportation, lodging some meals etc.. You just have to sign a year contract or so with them. Personally I would rather be on the hook with a trucking company than a bank but that's your prerogative. You will find it a little hard to land your dream job right off the bat whether it be local or regional, LTL etc... but like I said you have to start somewhere. Residing in Texas should be in your favor though being a greater choice of carriers. Hopefully you have no family or spouse making home time not so important. This is the number one reason for newbies quitting!

    Take your time, do your research. This website is an excellent place to start and for good info on the industry.

    Good luck!
     
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