More confused than ever! Can't choose a company to train with!

I'm pretty sure System Transport is based in your area,and Interstate distributors also? Good luck buddy

 

Schneider has a drop yard in Kent, but you'd train at their O.C. in Portland. They may be an option

 

poor @Chinatown. poor poor china.

 

From what you've posted, James J. Williams has what you're looking for. They don't have their own cdl school, but work with DTS for drivers. James J. Williams has tuition reimbursement if you attend private cdl school such as DTS. You will need a passport or passport card for Canada runs plus hazmat/tanker endorsements. The school can explain all that to you. If you call DTS, tell them your're looking at James J. Williams.
DTS Driver Training and Solutions (cut & paste from their website)
"Is Financial Aid Available?
Please contact our office to discuss the funding options available to our students. If you're a dislocated worker or Veteran, the States of Washington, Oregon, and Idaho might be able to assist you with tuition! Ask us about financial aid programs!"

There's also Jim Palmer Trucking and Jones Bros. Trucking, both have cdl school in Missoula,Montana. You can run western states with Jim Palmer, but hometime won't be the best. Still it's a good outfit.
Leavitt's Freight Service also hires from DTS.

Swift will get the job done for you; the training is good and you can switch to James J. Williams after your obligation is complete which will take over a year.

 

Thanks, everyone! @Chinatown I think I'm going to give Jim Palmer a call soon. I would love to do DTS but I don't think I'll get financial aid at this point and I can't afford to pay that much upfront. My wife has ssi benefits to pay the rent and food but I, unfortunately, need to make something while training to help with bills. I was originally looking at Prime and Schneider but I know there are a lot of opinions on those companies! I read as many good reviews as bad reviews for most companies. I know the first couple years will be tough but if I can get the experience in and find a job that will fit my needs better, we're willing to sacrifice. So would Prime or Schneider be a mistake?

 

They wouldn't be a mistake because we do what we have to do in a given situation. Probably make the most money with Prime or Jim Palmer. I like Jim Palmer because they use full size trucks, but either one will suffice in your situation.
If you're unemployed or under-employed, the state will probably pay the tuition for you at a private school.

 

I still believe any reference to a female should be accompanied by a photo. Chinatown even puts his main squeeze in his profile. We can all dream.

Remember the first company you drive and train with is only your foot in the door company. I have seen drivers who started with Pam who were very well trained. No way I would drive that cheap but they do a great job in teaching you how to operate a commercial vehicle. Get hired, get your license, get some experience, and then get a real job with a company that pays real wages.

 

How much did DTS say you need upfront? They finance the tuition and James J. Williams pays the bill.
What did Schneider tell you? Not a bad company, but the pay is low.
You don't have to start out with low pay unless you choose to.

 

i've driven for both these companies. IMHO! prime is the better choice. more pay during training, and a higher CPM after. hotel is nicer, people are nicer, and way better facilities. hell just the crew that runs the cafe at the hotel make it worth going. they had me cracking up twice a day. keep in mind i have Army standards when it comes to food but it's good.

with prime you get 700 a week or 14 cpm while training which ever is higher. it's common for students to bring home 800 while training. then all 3 divisions are over .40 cpm once you get in your own truck.

 

being a rookie is tough and any company that takes you on will abuse you quititly but you have earn your stripes one way or another,Just hang in there and once you get miles under your belt and years then it will look better for you just make sure you keep your driving record clean cause thats what they look for.Ive been driving for 27 years and I still enjoy driving . so good luck. to all.