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Thinking hard about it

Discussion in 'Questions From New Drivers' started by Jewel02, Aug 16, 2008.

  1. Aug 16, 2008 #1
    Jewel02

    Jewel02 Bobtail Member

    5
    0
    Aug 4, 2008
    Arizona
    0
    So ever since I went with my bf on one of his runs I've been thinking about becoming a driver. I'm currently unemployed and have been for about 6 weeks today. It's difficult to find any other jobs and I need something with some stability so I've been researching truck driving. I'm learning the bad and the good and just had a few questions for those who would like to share some experience.

    *I have a speeding ticket (about 2-3 years ago) and a failure to avoid an accident (1 1/2-2 years ago) on my record but nothing like a DUI or DWI, would that be a problem at all?

    *Has anyone worked with Driver Solutions?

    *Are they a good idea to start out with or would it be better to just go to an individual company?

    *I'd probably have to just work off the schooling for my CDL, how many companies work with you on that?

    *How long does is take to pay it off?

    *Do you automatically go solo or can you request to be part of a team?

    *(Stupid question here) I've never driven a manual before, is it hard to learn to drive a truck? I remember watching my bf driving his and wondering how he does it, but maybe I'm over-thinking it...

    *How much is typical to make per mile when you first start?

    I know I'll probably think of more, but I'm pretty tired now and can't think of anything else. Anything else you can think of would be most appreciated though! :) I just want to get this totally thought out and researched before I bring it up to the bf. He's not crazy about trucking, but did suggest at one time we team up together. I just don't want to say anything until I'm closer to making a decision.
     
    Jewel02, Aug 16, 2008
    Jewel02, Aug 16, 2008
    #1
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  3. Aug 16, 2008 #2
    RickG

    RickG Road Train Member

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    Jul 22, 2008
    Owensboro , KY
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    You'd probably want to team with your boyfriend or your schedules would rarely allow you to see each other . For couples I'd recommend expediting . There are fleet owners leased to companies like Panther and FedEx Custom Critical that hire teams on contract . Usually teams get 60% of gross plus 100% of fuel surcharge . Teams buy the fuel . That's necessary to avoid excessive deadheading off route and to keep idling to a minimum . Most expedite trucks are straight trucks with huge sleepers . Rates are good . You run less , earn more . Fleet owners are usually cooperative in helping train an inexperienced member of a team .
     
    RickG, Aug 16, 2008
    RickG, Aug 16, 2008
    #2
  4. Aug 16, 2008 #3
    Lurchgs

    Lurchgs Road Train Member

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    Feb 13, 2008
    Denver, CO
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    problem: yes. BIG problem: probably not. Going to depend on the company

    I'll skip that one - I've not worked with them

    see above

    Quite a few

    Varies - 12 months to 24 are typical

    again, going to vary by company

    You are actually in a better position than those of us who spent years of driving shift in a car - you have nothing to unlearn. Double clutching isn't HARD - it's just a different set of reflexes from driving a car. I've been driving for a bit over two months and I don't even think about it any more.

    Anywhere from 22 cents to low 30s - solo. As a team, you might make a bit less per mile, but you'll cover more miles.

    I'd like to address schooling, if I may. I am of the strong opinion that you should get your CDL from a third party school - independent of any carrier. My personal preference is SAGE.

    Run down to your local unemployment office and see if you qualify for WIA grants or some other re-training funding. try to take the financial burden off your own shoulders entirely, instead of just delaying it
     
    Lurchgs, Aug 16, 2008
    Lurchgs, Aug 16, 2008
    #3
    Jewel02 Thanks this.
  5. Aug 16, 2008 #4
    Jewel02

    Jewel02 Bobtail Member

    5
    0
    Aug 4, 2008
    Arizona
    0
    That's what I'd like to do eventually, but his company is a small one and most likely doesn't offer the school assistance I'd need to get my CDL, so I'd probably have to get it and then join him.

    I did look up SAGE and they look pretty decent. I'll have to call them on Monday. I always find something to follow up on on a weekend when I can't do anything about it. :rolleyes: Or could I get my CDL and then just learn by driving with my bf's company? Would he be allowed to teach me with his truck or would it just be better to learn from an actual school first?

    Thanks for the help guys. :)
     
    Jewel02, Aug 16, 2008
    Jewel02, Aug 16, 2008
    #4
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