What are my options?

Discussion in 'Questions From New Drivers' started by Rocknroller4, Jan 22, 2016.

  1. Rocknroller4

    Rocknroller4 Road Train Member

    1,165
    613
    Nov 25, 2015
    0
    So it's been 6-7 months since I graduated CDL school. Due to things out of my control wasn't able to start until now. What companies will be willing to hire me?

    I am on the West Coast.
     
    Chinatown Thanks this.
  2. Truckers Report Jobs

    Trucking Jobs in 30 seconds

    Every month 400 people find a job with the help of TruckersReport.

  3. DenaliDad

    DenaliDad Retired Wheel Dog

    You're almost outside the magic grace period so get on the computer and start sending out applications to every starter company you can find. Then you can make decisions.
     
    G13Tomcat Thanks this.
  4. Rocknroller4

    Rocknroller4 Road Train Member

    1,165
    613
    Nov 25, 2015
    0
    Well I can go with Swift or Western Exp.
     
  5. MooneyBravo

    MooneyBravo Heavy Load Member

    853
    1,216
    Feb 20, 2012
    Vermilion, Oh
    0
    I used to train drivers back in the early 90's. What I used to tell them is that your new CDL is merely a license to learn. And that's exactly what you are going to have to do before anyone will hire you. You start your learning by training with a qualified driver trainer. All the big companies like Werner, Schneider, JB Hunt, Swift etc. are not the best companies to drive for but they all have training programs to start your career. You will spend the required time with a trainer until you are qualified to test out. Once you are a qualified solo driver you will need to spend a minimum of 6 months to a year acquiring some experience as a solo driver. Personally, I recommend 2 years. Once you have done this, you will have more widely opened up the door of opportunity. Don't wait too long because 6 or 7 months is a long time ago and you will eventually be required to get more school time.
     
    Last edited: Jan 22, 2016
    G13Tomcat and Getsinyourblood Thank this.
  6. Knucklehead619

    Knucklehead619 Medium Load Member

    537
    591
    Mar 11, 2014
    Flyover Country
    0
    Swift isn't quite as bad as Western Express. I drove for Swift after CDL school and stuck around a few years as a trainer. It's not the best company out there and doesn't pay great but most training companies are worse. On the other hand, I don't think I've heard a single good thing said about Western Express. Ever. You might give Crete a call as they'll train you and pay you a LOT better. Interstate may work too... I have a buddy driving for them and he seems to like it.

    Keep sending in applications but if you only have the choice of the 2 I'd recommend Swift. Good luck.
     
    rachi Thanks this.
  7. Chinatown

    Chinatown Road Train Member

    75,050
    171,133
    Aug 28, 2011
    Henderson, NV & Orient
    0
    Freymiller has a "Restore Program" for drivers in your situation.
    If that doesn't work:
    KKW Trucking in Pomona.
    Jim Palmer Trucking

    I'd pick Western Express over Swift; reason for this is Swift has listening devices in the truck. Can hear you talking & phone conversations.
     
    Chewy352 and bottomdumpin Thank this.
  8. Florida Playboy

    Florida Playboy Road Train Member

    4,102
    6,621
    Dec 19, 2012
    Florida
    0
    Really? Or is this just an unproven rumor?
     
  9. coffee mug

    coffee mug Light Load Member

    112
    50
    Jan 22, 2016
    0
    when i was a paschall truck lines driver in 2009, i was dispatched to a US Xpress terminal just east of the 2 TA Truck stops a few exits around ontario,ca and CRST , Abeline, also had trailers droped in their[​IMG]
     
  10. Chinatown

    Chinatown Road Train Member

    75,050
    171,133
    Aug 28, 2011
    Henderson, NV & Orient
    0
    It's fact. Several threads on it here from the drivers themselves.
     
    Rocknroller4 Thanks this.
  11. GenericUserName

    GenericUserName Road Train Member

    1,543
    13,065
    May 17, 2014
    Santa Monica, CA
    0
    It shouldnt be too difficult to coat the lens with an invisible material that blurs the visibility of the camera.
     
  • Truckers Report Jobs

    Trucking Jobs in 30 seconds

    Every month 400 people find a job with the help of TruckersReport.