Year One Reality

thanks for the information that really helps I'm gonna start looking around.

 

Gashauler, there's a big difference driving for an oil company vs. CR England! I think you know what I mean when I am talking about large carriers or mega-carriers.

T-train more cents per mile and nicer trucks usually equals less miles and pay for drivers. You could be offered $1.00 a mile but if you are sitting in a truck stop not running any miles you aren't making a dime!

Most companies either pay more per mile or have nicer trucks. Rarely do they have both. They have to balance the budget somewhere. Like I said too, its best to go with a carrier that is offering average pay. First off, they are being up front and more honest with you and second, they are most likely running good miles if they don't have to try and compensate their drivers with an enticing bribe.

 

Orientation at most large trucking companies is nothing more than an extended job interview. It is where the hiring decision is actually made. Many people quit an existing job to attend orientation with one of the bottom feeding mega carriers only to find out that they really don't have a job, but just the opportunity to continue the interview process to see if they are actually offered a job. Most of the time during the "orientation" is where the DOT physical/drug test is given as well as references checked and background check completed. An applicant can be sent home at anytime (most of the time at their own expense).

With my current company my orientation was just as you would think. Filling out benefit forms, meeting office staff, getting pic taken for company ID, ordering uniforms, etc..... I didn't walk in for orientation until all of my pre-hire requirements were completed.

Just another reason to avoid the mega starter companies in the first place

 

There are no guarantees with one of these starter company orientations. You can be sent home for any reason they choose. Could be a crash with the truck, could be an instructor doesn't like you, could be you violate some rule that you were unaware of (See: walking on the grass at TMC). What limited protections you have as an employee you have even less during one of these orientations.

I would not work for a company where I was not an actual employee from my first day there. Company sponsored CDL training should be avoided at all costs.

 

I don't know that anyone said that, but going in with your eyes open and realistic expectations will increase your chances of success.