What is the difference in entry level co's and others?

Discussion in 'Questions From New Drivers' started by Batdog, May 18, 2009.

  1. Batdog

    Batdog Bobtail Member

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    Nov 22, 2007
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    Hi all. My wife and have been teaming now for about 9 months with one of those - what everyone calls - an "entry level" company. But we are happy here, so far so good. The home terminal is 3 miles from our house, and we are running about average miles from what we learn talking around at truck stops etc. (We paid for our CDL's ourselves so as not to be on a 12 month contract with anyone.)

    So as our first year driving approaches, we are being told by others in the biz "time to find a better company". OK, great. Well after researching other companies, I really don't see where we benefit much by starting over.

    "Better Company". What am I missing? Seems to me as a Company noob that it is what it is out here: Pick up a trailer, take it here. Repeat as needed.

    Thanks!
     
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  3. rswinnerton

    rswinnerton Light Load Member

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    Marysville, PA
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    The only real difference is the color of the equipment. If you're happy with the money and the company, stay.
    Russ
     
  4. ironpony

    ironpony Road Train Member

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    Ask my GPS...
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    Good advice. All that really happens is the equipment changes, and you loose revenue (paychecks) while you're off between jobs. By all means, look around, but make sure there is a real positive difference if you do jump.

    Right now, IMO, the grass really isn't greener on the other side of the fence. It might be better to wait until the economy picks up.
     
  5. doubledragon5

    doubledragon5 Road Train Member

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    It is always better to stay put for a while any way. If your making decent money, able to pay your bills, and have some left over, then there is no reason to leave your current company.. The economy is bad, drivers are loosing their jobs on a daily bases.. Besides if you do leave, your not guaranteed, to get employment else where as there are more experience drivers with perfect driving records look for work now.. Considere yourself luck to be working and by all means stay put..
     
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  6. leannamarie

    leannamarie "California Girl"

    If you are happy, stay where you are. It is that simple. Why let anyone else tell you what you should do? Even entry-level companies have long-time drivers driving for them. Not every company "fits" everyone. If yours fits you, you would only lose time, money, vacation, and reputation to leave.
     
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  7. JW430

    JW430 Medium Load Member

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    May 23, 2009
    Rocklin, CA
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    One thing I have learned in my life is that the grass is always greener where you water it.
     
  8. dancnoone

    dancnoone "Village Idiot"

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    Starting over, is for solo drivers. Teams typically hire in at the prevailing pay scale. Which can be as much as 8-14 cents differance, depending on the company.

    You didn't say what company you were with.

    But I can name one entry level, that pays teams with 4 years experience. 6 cents less per mile than another "leading" company pays it 6 month experience drivers.

    But, if you're happy....why bother?
     
  9. bigcountry30

    bigcountry30 Light Load Member

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    May 17, 2009
    Indiana
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    If your happy stay. Some people are lifers at these Starter companies Some last 6 months. The key in this business is finding a company that fits YOUR needs. who cares what anyone else tells you they are not paying your bills, you are. If things get bad later look for something else then.
     
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  10. dancnoone

    dancnoone "Village Idiot"

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    Exactly right. It's all about the driver, and his/her personal needs and goals.

    One guy needs .40 a mile, and 3900 miles a week.

    The other is perfectly happy with .30 a mile and 2000 a week.
     
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