You've got to let me know...should I stay or should I go?

You need to determine how much of US Express' 82cpm is bonuses. And are those bonuses obtainable? I changed jobs early in my career too. And as it turns out, was not an improvement. I did it hastily. I took more time on the next time, and my 3rd job was a huge improvement over the first 2. I know sometimes people have to make a job switch right now. Sounds like that isn't the case for you. So I'd just say hang out where you are and do more research.

 

Assuming money is what matters..

..From what I've seen on these boards, I'd be checking out ODFL,, if I were teamed with the other half .

If not ODFL, mebbe see if you can find an OTR linehaul gig? It'd likely be the same route over and over, but from what I see/hear, the money is crazy good. Prolly a lot less work too, but balls to the wall driving

 

Look around on job websites for the linehaul gigs and ask around. off the top of my head I remember seeing a KS-CA-KS, 80k ea/home weekends. FXG ,, I know a husband wife team that was with one their contractors. they did ok moneywise, but not great, home weekends. Not sure how the fleet owners themselves do tho, I would imagine pretty good when they can keep drivers in trucks. Another friend of mine was doing an OH-TX-CO-OH team gig, haven't talked to him in a while tho.

But you got some exp, id say screw USX et el!

 

why go otr doing Linehaul when you can make 80k coming home every night? or morning I guess..

 

There's something to be said for a dedicated route. Nice knowing where you are and where you can get help if trouble arises.

 

The grass isn't always greener some times it the BS that's the green you are looking at .
They may pay more but do they move you more or at least the same ?
If you chase the bonus money for better pay you are going to lose .
The reason they make it a bonus instead of a wage is because they know they wont have to pay it to a majority of drivers .

I am not saying you wont do better but just warning you that it's like prom night out here and you are the prom queen.
All they want to do is stick it in just a little bit .
So keep your knees closed and your eyes open .

 

Do I need a hazmat endorsement to haul sodium chloride in a aqueous solution of dihydrogen monoxide?

 

If my high school chemistry hasn't failed me - no. But you may need a tanker endorsement depending on how it's packaged and how many gallons there are.