Newb, need some advice

to me as an experienced driver ,30+yrs, a terminal within an easy drive has always been an important factor.
if things don't work out or family emergencies, I don't worry about parking with a load or having truck broke into.
and it's free parking.
take this weekend, wife had to go the hospital, I was home, called in and they swapped my trailer out. no problem .

 

Carter Express. Home often, and all their drivers seem to stick around. They have a lot of dedicated automotive, so you possibly pull that freight. And if you work the automotive schedule, you will be off from dec 24-jan 3, and then in July for two weeks. Almost a month off a year and probably make 60k or better, home several times a week and off weekends. That’s if you are hauling Nissan to canton ms.

 

As far as parking download Trucker Path. Since drive a truck I notice anywhere a truck is parked but if you don't it's easy to miss many places. Where I park you could easily miss it's actually a truck stop because the diesel lanes are way in back and seldom used as is the parking. Also most places have rv parking if you want actual security but you have to pay.

I would check you local community college. They often have 6 months programs and financial aid available. Most states will also pay for CDL training. That frees you from contracts with trucking companies. You quit they want their money. Chances are they pay for your training it's crap pay so not having that sword hanging over you is preferable. Where I started got me about $30k/year, jumped ship to $45k then $60k in under a year.

 

Depends on the person as far as contracts go. I still have the "doom of Damocles" hanging over me for a few more months.

I would say to estimate 3 months no pay. 4 weeks for school (minimum), 3 - 4 weeks orientation (minimum), and an additional 2- 3 weeks for first check to clear. This will make sure that your ### is covered throughout the process. Just my 2 cents.

 

Any of those 3 companies you're considering will be ok. Roehl gives hair follicle test.
Stock up on some instant foods to help until the paychecks start coming. I know they're not healthy, but they're cheap and can help in the beginning because truckstop meals are expensive. Those foods will also be nice to have when you're in school and studying at night.
Microwave use is free in truckstops and probably in the lodging where you will stay during school. Pack all that stuff in a flexible bag, not a hard suitcase, because the flexible bag is easy to store in the truck, especially when you and the trainer are teaming in the beginning.
Ramen Noodles
oatmeal
instant coffee
soup
bennie-weenies
etc.

 

Schneider also has a Walmart account in Washington Courthouse. Check their website for paid cdl training.

Assuming you pass everything on the first go and can get into orientation a week and a half after school you would get your first check on week 7 or 8 (week 1 being first day of school). They require a 1 year contract but deduct nothing from your pay to "pay back school". Just another option.