New guy from Arizona

Do you have a question?


Conservative to the Bone.

 

Welcom, Ken.

Both careers aren't what they used to be, this is the place to get the real story on trucking.

 

Ok, don't be sorry, just wanted clarification.

If you want or need advise, this is the place to be. There is many different directions to go in this industry. From Truckload like Swift, or LTL(less than truckload) like my company ABF. To tanker, to flatbed, to heavyhaul, to moving companies, to whatever.

And if you wanna be an owner operator to company driver, to union(like me) or non union.

Now, what ever direction you go, you can't go wrong. But it won't be easy.

My advise, go to a school, get your CDL, and start with your typical starter company. Swift, Werner, who ever. Just get your experience in. And keep your nose clean!!!! You won't make a lot of money your first couple years, or see home a lot either. Your probably make 40 to 50 a year your first couple years.

But spend that time learning every aspect of this industry. At the truckstops talk to other drivers from different fields. You may find you would like LTL over Truckload, or Tanker over flatbed. Everyone is different.

Nothing wrong with being an owner op either. But do your homework!!!! Understand the driving the truck is easiest part of the job. Running a trucking business can be very lucrative. But will be a major headache at the same time. And if you don't have a business plan, becoming an owner op can and will bankrupt you.
I've never been an owner op, but have heard both horror stories, and positive stories.
On this site there is a ton of owner ops who love to help and give great advice. Don't be shy to ask questions.

I see your from Az. I am too. May I recommend you look into AIT for a trucking school. I went there in 1999. Great school. There located off 51st ave and buckeye in Phoenix.

http://www.ait-schools.com/

Basically, just spend your first couple years learning all you can. Your only 21, you got plenty of time. Good luck you. We're all here to help you.


Conservative to the Bone.

 

Welcome Ken!

 

Howdy Hizen, I have been retired for 5 years now so I'm not up on all the latest happenings in the trucking Industry, but after 47 years I certainly know quite a bit. I think Stoney gave you one of the best answers to your questions. Here in the "real world" He is right on! The 1st 20 years I drove over the road, had alot of good times and never made the big $$. the last 20 years I worked the L.T.L. part of trucking and in my opinion thats where the best $$ are. But as he said to each his own! Take care now and Happy trails! Levi39.

 

Welcome to the party!

You'll find lots of information on this forum just by browsing the threads!