Putting in OTR time to get local gig, realistic?

yes you can make that happen. just keep a clean record and see what the requirements are for local companies. i just recently moved from texas but you can definitely do that

 

The first step is to secure your CDL-A, unless you already have one... then check local and regional listings in the 'Transport' column of Craigslist, or do a bit of research at fleetdirectory.com, where companies are listed by state. Not every company requires OTR experience, although in this economy it certainly wouldn't hurt to have it when you apply. For some employers, your MVR and a clean criminal background are more important, while a certificate from truck driving school is an added plus. The 'Transport' column of C/L serves as a good barometer for economic activity in whatever area you choose as your new home. Good luck to ya!!!

 

It pays to look around, but a few years ago when I was looking for local work, I applied at 10 + places and they all told me a needed 1 year and then they could work with me. They are getting even picker now, with so many qualified drivers looking for work. I was in a local LTL place here in town last week, and there was a guy in his fifties working the dock, and working as a swing driver to get a perm job.....he had over 15 years OTR

 

You could also check into local vendors such as beer and wine haulers. Or concrete, lumber, equipment hauler. Check out some local construction or environmental companies many of them will hire you with no experience or if you have your permit already will let you ride with a driver to learn and when you are ready let you use the truck to test in. A couple guys I work with started out as technictions (sp) and went on to get their cdl with out ever going over the road.

 

I actually wanted to go OTR when I first got my CDL but due to my lack of experience I couldn't find a carrier to hire me. So I ended up applying for local jobs... Oddly enough I am now using my local experience to look for OTR positions The person who suggested local vendors(Beer/Wine) is spot on...I actually started out with Pepsi... What surprised me about Pepsi is that they actually like to hire people WITHOUT CDL's and train them. I was able to skip the 1 year employment contract since I was already experienced with CDL in hand but for alot of guys that works out well. You might have to start out on a bay truck(side loader) running route sales but it only took me 6 months to move into a bulk route pulling a 53ft van getting paid straight hourly... GRAVY job

 

Your best bet would be to get your wife her license and go teaming over the road together. You will be surprised how much money you will make!

 

Oddly enough, I think it is harder to get a good OTR job then a local job. My FIL got an AWESOME local Union gig and they didn't even check his references or previous employers lol.

Remember though, there are just as many scummy local gigs as OTR. Our local transport section of craigslist is full of "beware of so-n-so" ads and most of them are for local jobs.

 

That'll work. Many gone the same route. Them drivers have to come from somewhere.

Consider getting into LTL with UPS or such. That's where the money is at.

Yeah beware of Craiglist. Half are good and half are bogus.

 

It worked for me, but if I'd stayed with my company it would have bankrupted me. And that was one of the good ones. The horror stories I hear on this board,,,

Best advice? Don't hit nutin'.