My adventures at CRST Malone

Day 2 in OKC in started with coil securement on the training flatbed in several configurations then after that a few more tests and hopefully wrapping up the last of loose end paperwork. O/O trucks were inspected and I had a rear brake pad that was too worn, got it changed out. Honestly most of this 2 days so far has been sitting around but it's a good group of guys in my class, only lost one on the first day and lots of experiences to share while we're waiting.
Like Playa said, it's pretty disorganized during orientation and I'm sure it'll be more of the same for the lease guys after hearing stories of occasionally having to pick up trucks all over the country including Cali. If I didn't come into this with a decent amount of savings I'd be freaking out as to why we're not hurrying the process up so I could get my first load. A few Malone drivers have come by and chatted with us while we're waiting and they're all happy with positive stories of good paying loads. Looking forward to getting more hands on training tomorrow

 

Day 3 & 4,OKC, more coil securement in different configurations and going over CRST policies. Also covered slinkies, and pipe loads. Also lots of people have a variety of different issues that are very time consuming. Had a couple hour conference call with a Birmingham employee going over the ins and outs of the lease purchase program, fuel procedures, safety, pay, etc. Tammy does the orientation and is great but definitely has a lot going on but handles it very well.

 

Some advice for when you hit the road...

The listing of agents they give you almost worthless if you dont understand what I'm going to say next.

Just because you're in one location doesnt mean there arent loads available from an agent across the country. I'm currently under a sweet paying no tarp that I got from an agent 4 states away.

Some agents almost never post anything on the boards. The Detroit office for example. But they almost always have something.

Pay attention to the agents who have loads posted in an area. Next time you're looking for a load in that area, call those agents. Even if you're in georgia and the agent is in Texas for example.

 

Do they have a bunch of trailers (flatbed) on the yard?

I turned in my lease a month ago, took some time off and bought a truck.

Will be up there Monday to put their numbers on and grab a trailer. Just curious if they still have a bunch of empties like they did a month ago. Suppose I could call my old dispatcher and have him put one on hold for me.

 

I'd add one more thing to Keith's advice, ask the agent who's load your pulling if they have a backhaul out of the area their sending you to. Chances are they might and if not they might know who to call for one

 

Thanks for the advice. I certainly get what your saying and will be sure to be calling around and introducing myself to anyone and everyone I can.

 

No, they do not. Maybe 2 or 3 if those aren't already assigned. I'm wondering because they already have equipment on them so I'm gonna assume they may just be someone's who is on hometime. I'm hoping to find out tomorrow whee my trailer is located

 

Thanks, I'll def do that when i get the opportunity. After reading this thread, I can see how important it is to know what I'm doing after my current load and have it set up

 

Thank you to everyone for the advice and for Playa for having this thread. I'm feeling a little nervous as I head into this final day of getting a trailer and my first load. No previous flatbed experience but I'm gonna take my time and over secure and ask all the questions I need until it's right. I've saved my money so I can take my time and carefully take one load at a time and not feel rushed to generate big income right away.