Over the road.

Discussion in 'Questions From New Drivers' started by Retrovirus, Aug 19, 2023.

  1. Retrovirus

    Retrovirus Bobtail Member

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    Aug 19, 2023
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    Hello, I am from Fort Myers, Florida. I am planning to attend Suncoast Trucking Academy for school. Once I complete the academy and obtain my CDL, I will need to board my 50 lb Labrador while I drive with the instructor at whichever company I join. After that, I don't really have a home to return to, so I am interested in being on the road for a year or more, as long as my dog can accompany me. Being single, I enjoy extended road trips and have experience in mobile billboard driving on the East Coast, which I loved, especially the drives between states.

    I've reached out to a few companies, but they've mentioned that they are not hiring drivers from Florida. Fray Miller even mentioned that they avoid Florida due to the presence of what they call "CDL Mills" and the perception of poor drivers from here. I'm unsure if this is accurate information or not. Could you please suggest some reputable companies that would be a good fit for my situation after I obtain my CDL from Suncoast Trucking Academy?

    I appreciate your time and any insights you can provide. Thank you.
     
    Flat Earth Trucker Thanks this.
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  3. JoeyJunk

    JoeyJunk Road Train Member

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    I think you will have a difficult time finding a company to let you bring your dog during training.
     
  4. Retrovirus

    Retrovirus Bobtail Member

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    I apologize for any confusion earlier. I now comprehend your point. You're correct that I won't be able to have my dog with me while training with the instructor. I'm aware that this training phase can last up to 2 months, as advised by my school's trainer. Consequently, I've made arrangements to have my dog boarded during this initial training period. However, my main concern and question lie in what comes after this training phase. Thank you for your understanding.
     
  5. lual

    lual Road Train Member

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    Greetings -- from extreme southern GA!

    Schneider veteran here.

    My latest gig: hazmat tanker, hauling fuel (but NOT with Schneider).

    You will be entering the trucking industry when freight volumes are down quite sharply.

    Your current location places you at a severe disadvantage: you need to be AT LEAST above I-4 in Florida, to have a worthwhile shot at decent beginner opportunities, in the current market.

    Since you don't have a home there in south FL to which to return -- while you're in CDL school -- SERIOUSLY CONSIDER establishing some form of residency above I-4; or even better still -- somewhere up in Georgia.

    You will maximize your later job opps with a residency up in Georgia -- or even in Alabama.

    -- L
     
    tscottme and born&raisedintheusa Thank this.
  6. Retrovirus

    Retrovirus Bobtail Member

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    I'm receiving a government grant to secure a spot at this school, and I simply don't have the funds to relocate. I'm presently staying at my father's house. My initial income doesn't matter much to me, as long as it exceeds $30,000.
     
    4wayflashers Thanks this.
  7. Retrovirus

    Retrovirus Bobtail Member

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    Aug 19, 2023
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    Thank you for that advice though I will keep that in mind when I have some money on my side.
     
  8. Retrovirus

    Retrovirus Bobtail Member

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    Would it be possible to use a UPS address, like a click-and-ship location, as my residence? Or would I need to update my license and other information?
     
  9. lual

    lual Road Train Member

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    BTW: how old are you?

    You need to be at least 21 years old, for many interstate CDL jobs; other carriers will want you to be older than that. It depends on the carrier in question.

    -- L
     
  10. Retrovirus

    Retrovirus Bobtail Member

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    Aug 19, 2023
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    33, I had a rough start at life.
     
    4wayflashers Thanks this.
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