Suggestions for a newbie in bad locale

Look covenant is good for beginners

 

Try Prime. They have a floral warehouse down there in Pierson, so they can get out of FL whenever they want. I do not know if they have a terminal or drop yard there. I should know since I worked for them a bit back, but I have no idea. I just got my pretty plants and rolled north - no delays other than loading.

Or, CFI. They purchased MCT a while back and kept the Sanford, FL, terminal open. Google still has it listed as MCT. They take rookies, too. Although they are a subsidiary of Heartland Express (sucky company), CFI drivers are generally satisfied even after the merger. Not bad for starting out.

Swift has a bad reputation from LONG ago. Since their merger with Knight, they don't have as many problems. They get the bad rap just like Schneider and JB Hunt did back in the day. Most former Swift drivers I know are #### good ones, so they aren't all THAT bad overall. Knight keeps them in check since Jerry Moyes was "retired" by the Knight brothers (as was the majority of their board of directors). Swift isn't bad for starting out. Your wife is right to be cautious, but I think she's working off oldish news.

Speaking of Knight, they too are a major presence in Florida. They used to train from CDL onward, not sure if they still do.

And, there should be a few around you that'll NOT be a Mega but will still consider you. Google search your area for trucking companies and check their websites. For those without web sites, pick up the phone.

Have you considered getting experience through local work (garbage hauling, dump beds, flatbed, or tanks)? If you're willing to earn the high pay, Sysco or McLane both train rookies. Local deliveries, but you will earn your keep. Good pay and bennies. I think both are Day One for benefits (McLane is for sure).