Military trucking experience considered?

Discussion in 'Motor Carrier Questions - The Inside Scoop' started by WarVet, Apr 23, 2013.

  1. WarVet

    WarVet Bobtail Member

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    Apr 23, 2013
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    Ok I'm new to the forum and rather enjoying the wealth of knowledge, humor... and rumor that goes on around here.

    Just out of curiosity I would like to know what consideration is given to military trucking experience from the better (experience required) carriers? I know there is a world of difference between trucking in the military and the civilian trucking industry but in the end.... hauling is hauling! I've hauled flatbeds through thousands of miles of the most hostile territory and terrain imaginable, led convoys/missions consisting of up to 40 trucks at a time. We were usually "over the road" or "outside the wire" for several weeks at a time, slept in/on/under trucks, provided our own security, and recovered our own trucks/equipment when damaged as a result of terrain or enemy activity. A lot of the job posting that I see that pay well or are worth a look require 2 plus years of OTR experience (I will be looking for local, dedicated, or regional opportunities first). Since the military doesn't require a CDL, I'm excited to be attending a CDL course at the end of the month to obtain my license and sponge up some good intel about the civilian side of trucking. My question to those that may have been down my road: Am I applying as a newby with zero experience or will my experiences actually count for something on the civilian side other than being a veteran?? I just don't want to approach potential employers the wrong way....

    Please share any opinions, thoughts, or personal experiences with this. Thanks!
     
    The Challenger Thanks this.
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  3. coastie

    coastie Road Train Member

    Do not know if they take that as experience but most will look closer at you cause you are a Vet, Combat Vet (Gov Money)

    And thanks for your service.
     
  4. JohnBoy

    JohnBoy Road Train Member

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    These companies need to hire you to educate their training departments, but we know that won't happen. Thanks for your service though.
     
  5. ironpony

    ironpony Road Train Member

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    Schneider National has been advertising a veterans program - you might want to give them a call.
     
    ewill71 Thanks this.
  6. Hammertyme

    Hammertyme Light Load Member

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    Apr 23, 2013
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    Ex-88m/64c here. You will be treated like any other newby but earn a penny or two more a mile. Just stick with it because you have to pay your dues like we all did. Truck companys like military because they whine less.
     
  7. ironpony

    ironpony Road Train Member

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    I think it's more because we're not a bunch of cryin' little spoiled brats.
     
  8. Hammertyme

    Hammertyme Light Load Member

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    Apr 23, 2013
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    Just drive on troop!
     
  9. H-D Road Glide

    H-D Road Glide Light Load Member

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    Depending on what your MOS/Rate, how long you've been out, can dictate your future opportunities. Quality Carriers, Averitt, And Crete come to mind.

    http://www.qcdriver.com/PC/military.html
    http://m.cretecarrierjobs.com/military

    These suggestions are only for military utilizing their prior military driving experience, not to be confused with the VA's Apprenticeship Program. I'm sure there's more places, but these are just the ones I could come up with off the top of my head.
     
  10. RickG

    RickG Road Train Member

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    Quality Carriers isn't the best of carriers but they offer the best opportunity for veterans with driving experience if you meet their qualifications . You should be able to transfer your military transport license to a CDL . http://www.qcdriver.com/PC/military.html
     
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