Recent CDL Grad NJ

Discussion in 'Questions From New Drivers' started by TD3, Jun 27, 2024.

  1. TD3

    TD3 Bobtail Member

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    Hope everyone is doing safe and well. I recently graduated from CDL school. I’m in Central Jersey. I want to go OTR. Can anyone help me out with some information. Much appreciated. Godbless.
     
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  3. lual

    lual Road Train Member

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    The CDL job market -- especially for new CDL grads -- is actually pretty terrible right now. :(

    Many carriers....that normally take new grads right out of school....now want 3 to 6 months experience.

    Some want even more....or have switched to hiring teams only.

    Your CDL school....if it's worth its salt....should be able to direct you to carriers that hire from that school (if any still do so).

    Otherwise -- look for carriers that have a dedicated training program/period for rookies.

    What endorsements do you have (if any)?

    What type(s) of freight are of most interest?

    -- L
     
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  4. TD3

    TD3 Bobtail Member

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    Thanks L.

    I have seen a few companies with Mentor programs/training programs. I do not have any endorsements yet. The freight don’t matter to me bruh. I’ll go down to Bumbletucky if I have to and haul cattle. :)
     
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  5. lual

    lual Road Train Member

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    If your personal driving record (& criminal history) is clean....& you can pass a drug screen....here are some carriers that you should avoid (they have poor reputations here on the Forum -- & usually for good reasons):

    • C R England
    • Western Express
    • CRST
    • TransAm
    • Pam Transport
    Join a carrier -- not a circus.

    -- L
     
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  6. TD3

    TD3 Bobtail Member

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    Thanks many. I have someone that said they can refer me into Werner. Seems like a win win. I get a job and they get some type of bonus.
     
  7. lual

    lual Road Train Member

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    Flatbed freight mite be ok for you, if:
    • Don't mind tarping freight -- in bad/cold/hot/humid weather conditions (including rain/sleet/snow)
    • Enjoy lots of physical labor, & later seeing the results of your efforts
    • Generally get along well with people in the construction/farming/mining fields
    • Want to drive mostly during daylight hours, & deliver/pickup during regular business hours
    Refrigeratored freight (aka, "reefer") might be ok for you, if:

    • Can survive on irregular sleep patterns
    • Don't mind/like LOTS of driving at night (in lieu of sleeping)
    • Have a very thick skin -- & can tolerate copious amounts of rudeness/disrespect from shippers/receivers
    • Like the idea of waiting for hours & hours -- parked at warehouse docks -- hoping/praying to be unloaded soon
    • Like tight load schedules/delivery time windows
    That leaves (basically) dry van freight...& tankers.

    What's my point here?

    Different strokes....for different folks.

    What freight type(s) may indeed be a good "fit"....for someone else -- might not be a good fit for you (& vice-versa). o_O

    -- L
     
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  8. Eddiec

    Eddiec Road Train Member

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  9. TD3

    TD3 Bobtail Member

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    that makes sense and I appreciate that information. What I’m really looking for is dry OTR drop and hook. I don’t mind being on the road for three weeks at a time. I thought maybe I can get teamed up with a mentor and go on the road with them and can get trained. Any companies that you know of for that. ?
     
  10. TD3

    TD3 Bobtail Member

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    That’s the man I need to talk to. 17 Mott Street.
     
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  11. Chinatown

    Chinatown Road Train Member

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    Team or solo driving?
     
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