Not a New Driver but been out the truck so What's a good Starter Company?

Discussion in 'Questions From New Drivers' started by truckingqueen, Apr 23, 2013.

  1. truckingqueen

    truckingqueen Bobtail Member

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    OK So I have been driving since 2005 and have been out the truck since May 2012 and had brain surgery to save my life from brain tumors! So I already talked to FMCSA in Washington and I need to be released by 3 docs which will happen next month!

    So my question is what is a good STARTER Company for someone who is getting back in the truck?

    Sorry about the lil details but I wanted all who read to have a little idea where I am coming from.

    Thanks in advance!
     
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  3. pattyj

    pattyj Road Train Member

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    Some of the smaller companies may take you.With the mega starter companies you may have to take a refresher course.Don't think there is any real good starter company.They're all the same in one way or another.So I suggest filling out apps and the first one that calls go there or put the names in a hat and pick one.
     
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  4. truckingqueen

    truckingqueen Bobtail Member

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    Yeah I talked to a recruiter at Gordon and he said they can work with me but it will be close because you have to have 6 months in the last year! But if all else fails I figured I can do a refresher course here and then go on. I understand each company has different requirements and insurances vary.

    If push comes to shove I am sure I can go back to where I come from!
     
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  5. JIMROY

    JIMROY Medium Load Member

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    keep looking there are plenty of smaller companies out there that won't require that recent experience crap.. And with decent pay also... Why go back to work for pennies when you can earn dollars.... If you ain't been laid in a year you don't forget how do ya,,,, same with driving.... Bet you didn't stop driving just stopped herding a big truck..... Personally i think that recent experience stuff is a load of bs.... Its a way for insurance companies to dig another nickle out of your already empty pockets.... Some posters here say you need a refresher course , they are probably paid posters and they are full of bs too......i quit in 90 and came back this last feb, i needed updated on new hos and that was it..... The hos didn't really change all that much....good luck to ya and welcome back, god speed and keep ya safe from stupid people....
     
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  6. Jakaby

    Jakaby Medium Load Member

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    He's right for the most part. I wouldn't start with the big companies until you check on all the other companies. Just be up front from the start. Let them know you are ready to work. As long as you have a good record it's probably not going to be hard finding someone to take you on. Even if it is, then try and find a mom and pop outfit where someone with a personality will actually listen to your story with an objective ear.

    Good luck to you and hope you're all better now.
     
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  7. Richter

    Richter Road Train Member

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    The problem for small companies is insurance. its nearly impossible to insure someone who hasn't been behind the wheel in the last year. Big companies self insure and thus can handle new drivers or drivers who don't have RECENT experience. Truth is a refresher program sucks, but its only 2-5 weeks out of your life. That should not make or brake who you drive for. TMC pays around .45/mile if you take the % option and has paid training/retraining.
     
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  8. truckingqueen

    truckingqueen Bobtail Member

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    HA HA HA! That part about getting laid was funny! But see its different NO you don't forget how to get laid but driving a semi truck after brain surgery is a whole different ball game!!! Thank you for your advice!
     
    mje Thanks this.
  9. truckingqueen

    truckingqueen Bobtail Member

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    Dang, the refresher course I seen here are 40 hrs for 4,000 and 44 hrs for 1300.

    Thank you to all for your advice.
     
    mje Thanks this.
  10. CougFan

    CougFan Light Load Member

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    I drive for Gordon, good to great company to work for. If they will take you I dont think you will be making a mistake. :)
     
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  11. Palazon

    Palazon Road Train Member

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    2nd that, not a bad "starter" company. I'd say they're good for a 1-3 year stint. Good equipment, more adult treatment than say Swift. Like any larger company tho there are some office idjits, it happens.
     
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