Dedicated To Helping Those That Are New To The Trucking Industry
We’re glad you’re here and we’re certain you’re going to find tons of great stories and informative artlclies about life on the road that will help you understand the in’s and out’s of the trucking industry. We have a number of different authors with various levels of experience in the industry, and we’re always looking for more! If you’re interested in having your own blog on TruckingTruth, just let us know by emailing Brett@truckingtruth.com. We’d love to have you!
A Positive, Honest, and Realistic View of the Trucking Industry
At TruckingTruth, we all enjoy trucking, but we want you to know the good side and the things you need to look out for. We have no hidden agendas and we’ll pull no punches. We want to give you an honest, realistic view of the industry so that you can decide for yourself if trucking is for you. And if you do decide you’d like a career in trucking, then we’re here to help you all the way!
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We’re putting together a great team of writers that are going to cover all different aspects of the trucking industry. These folks represent all different experience levels, and give a wide variety of insights and perspectives on truck driving and trucking as a career. We’re going to have everything from students in truck driving school, to new drivers, experienced drivers, and even some retired truck driving veterans with over 30 years of driving and millions of miles behind them on the highways across the U.S. and Canada. We’ll be covering the trucking industry and beyond with subjects including:
- The steps to becoming a truck driver
- Choosing a truck driving school
- How to find free CDL training
- Choosing the right trucking company
- Surviving your first year on the road
- Handling the DOT and your logbook
- Scheduling your time on the road
- The lifestyle of a big rig driver
- and a whole lot more….
So check out the work we’ve put together and I promise you you’re going to find more information here than all the other sources out there put together. And listen, this isn’t a one way street. We want your questions, comments, suggestions, and any kind of input you’d like to give. If there’s a specific question you need answered or a subject you’d like to see covered, just leave a comment after one of our posts, drop us an email, or check out our Ask A Driver section, our trucking articles, or our trucker’s forum and start typin away! We’re here all the time and we’ll be sure to get right back to you as quick as can be! So here’s the authors we are featuring and there will be more added all the time! Enjoy!
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Pappy is our long-time veteran of the road. He self proclaims “I try to lead a simple life, I’m not after riches untold or fame, I prefer to love, live, and be free”, and yet five minutes later while still continuing the same thought says “Folks, this man was askin for something he couldn’t pay for, even with all his possessions. When I unloaded a southpaw to his nose he crumpled to the ground…I told him he left me no other choice but to take outta his ass what I figured he would cost me.” So understand somethin about Pappy – he’s a kind-hearted, generous family man, no question. I know this for a fact. But he isn’t wasting his kindness on those who need settin’ straight, and he’s going to tell you what you need to know, even if it isn’t what you want to hear. But you better listen, because he’s been everywhere you’re gettin’ ready to go, and he already knows what you need to know before you even knew the right questions to ask. |
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If you’ve never traveled the country in a home on wheels the size of a walk-in closet with your true love, then you don’t know what you’re missin. But Tumbleweed does! TruckingTruth is lucky enough to bring you the stories, adventures, advice, and insights of a fine lady who has put in her time behind the wheel, and did it with her partner by her side. She knows the trucking industry and she knows a woman’s side of it – a side that more and more women are hoping to learn more about every year. So strap in, listen up, and follow along as Tumbleweed guides you along a woman’s path through the trucking industry. |
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With what seemed like a secure job and stable life, this fellow, like so many others, was surprised to find out one day that his job in the auto industry had come to an end. So what was the plan? With few choices in a terrible economy, Scott chose trucking to get him through the coming years. Will the auto industry ever get back to where it was? Will manufacturing ever be what it was? Nobody knows. But trucking still provides the opportunities people need to make good money and see the country. So follow along as Scott goes through his CDL training and gets out on the big roads making his way through life in a new trucking career. |
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Many of us have thought about driving truck over the years, but for one reason or another just never got around to doing it. Farmer Bob was one of em. With a nickname out of the “Far Side” cartoons and having retired from a job that was just too good to quit, Farmer Bob is finally headin out onto the highways in a big rig. With the support of his wife and an eagerness to see what life is like on the road, Farmer Bob will take you along as he ventures through school, goes out on the road with his trainer, and then on his own in the great big world of truckin. With so many lifestyle changes and surprises along the way, his insights will give you a great understanding of what’s out there on the road, and just what you’ll find interesting and unique if you were to ever travel the American highways for a living. |
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Jaunting about the place – that sounds about right. “To make a usually short journey for pleasure” as it is defined – and Peter’s trips around the country will likely be little different than his jaunts around town – except now he’ll be in an 80,000 lb rig. Not one to hold back opinions, and wih a sharp wit to match, you’re going to know exactly what Peter Jr is thinking, and why, and he doesn’t much care for wasting time worrying about who might be unhappy about it. Follow Peter Jr through his schooling, his training out on the road, and his jaunts around the country as he reports back to his family and friends his tales of the road. |
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In so few words this fine lady sums up herself by saying, “The beauty that I hold is for myself in the respect of who I am; I’m confident, respectful, with a worth that comes from God.” It could be said no better. Traveling from time to time with her husband in big rigs out of the Great Northwest, Karen has gained an appreciation for the road and the warriors who travel it every day. They get too little respect and appreciation, and Karen is here to stand up for those who have earned their place in our world by working so hard to help make it what it is. Kind-hearted and caring, with a spiritual side that guides her, Karen’s letters will appeal to those who root for the underdog and respect the hard working men and women of our land. |
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Ater completing a tour in Iraq, ranting warrior had a great job working for a friend in an auto shop. He liked his job, made good money, and put in his time. But like many, his friend’s shop fell victim to the failing economy. Left in a tough position, Ranting Warrior says “The thought of getting a nine to five office job makes me shutter. You would have to know me to understand – I would go insane. So any degree where I would be couped up doing monotonous things day after day is out the window, which is most of the degrees that lead to making good money.” After considering truck driving previously, he was led to a point in his life where the options were few, and the needs were immediate, and the question soon arose, “Why not trucking?” – and there you have it. Follow along as Ranting Warrior learns the ropes and faces the challenges of his new career on the road. |
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As the vice-president of Eagle Training Services, a Truck Driving School located in the Chicago area, Tanya has tons of great insights into the world of CDL training. With specifics about training in Illinois, along with a lot of general insights into the world of trucking, Tanya’s perspective is priceless for anyone considering becoming a truck driving. Follow along as she helps you understand the world of truck driver training, and lets you know what to expect should you choose truck driving as a career. |
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A former sailor in the Navy, Adrian went on to a career in the computer industry, until like so many others, the devastating economy took it’s toll, and work became scarce. What work there was paid very little, and a career in trucking seemed a likely replacement for his office and desk. And so it would be. Follow Adrian as he begins his CDL training, goes out on the road, and shares his thoughts about life in the trucking industry from the perspective only a new driver can give. |
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I have lived in this great state, South Carolina, for most of my life. I spent a short amount of time in Florida plus a few short stints on some Army bases spread here and there. My dad’s oldest brother was a trucker and he would let us go out with him during our summer breaks from school, so I got exposed to the life very early and it has stuck with me. I am a young man, 25 years old to be exact. I am married and have three beautiful little children…and I am going trucking. I have worked quite a variety of jobs in my 25 years. I am a nomad at heart…a wanderer. I don’t like sitting in one place very long and I find myself bored with jobs that have a monotonous routine. What all have I done you ask? Well, I have been a warehouse worker, loaded trucks for UPS, washed cars, worked in the dye house and spinning room of a cotton mill, sold insurance, been a police officer for 3 years, pastor of three , yes three, country churches in rural SC, a Field Artillery Surveyor for Uncle Sam’s Army, worked as a bar back in a restaurant, and I have done electrical work with my dad. So follow along as I now embark on my latest journey – becoming a truck driver. |
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I am a 50 year executive who is considering a local truck driving school with a good reputation, and then a new mid-life trucking career until retirement. My main concern may sound a little crazy, but I’m worried that I’ll be able to maintain my fitness level. I have done several Ironman triathlons, but running is a passion. How feasible is it to grab a 10-mile run during the day on some country road off a truck stop somewhere? Again, this may seem like a silly question, but in my mind it could be a deal-breaker on this career as my health and sanity are #1. Thanks in advance for any advice on this. I really hope it is do-able since I’m quite excited about starting this new career. Thanks!
Dennis
Hi Dennis.
Well, you served me up the perfect question, because I’ve always been a runner and I drove for 15 years, so I can tell you from experience that running while you’re on the road is absolutely doable. I used to love it. Now I never ran triathlons or anything like that, but I’ll average about 20 miles a week. I just do it for fun and fitness – I’ve never competed. But I used to love getting up in the morning about 3:00-4:00, drive a couple hours to wake up, and stop about 5:00-6:00 to run wherever I was at. Sometimes you’re stuck in busy areas – and nobody prefers running along busy roads. But most of the time you can easily find a truck stop or an on ramp to park at, out in the middle of nowhere, and have a great run. My favorite used to be way out in the middle of the desert – never a soul in sight. Being from the east coast, where everything is green, the desert scenery used to amaze me. The contrast was crazy.
But over the years I’ve run along Florida beaches, in the Colorado Rockies, through the mountainous wilderness in Oregon, through the streets of L.A., and everywhere in between. Yes, you can certainly find the time to go running. it won’t be perfect – you won’t always get the chance when you’d like to and you won’t always be in the ideal location, but most of the time you can find places that are secluded, peaceful, and with beautiful scenery which will make for some of the most memorable runs you’ve ever had, not to mention some of the most challenging terrain you’ll find anywhere. I used to love the variety – one day you’re in the cornfields of Illinois, the next day you’re in the Mountains of Colorado, the next day you’re in the desert Southwest in Arizona.
I think you’ll really enjoy running while you’re on the road. The variety, the scenery, and the challenges you’ll find are priceless.
Brett, thanks a million for your response. It really meant a lot to me. As a fellow runner you know how important the issue is. It’s something that’s been really bugging me – but no more. I appreciate the advice, and I look forward to scratching this little itch I’ve had for many years to get on the road and get the heck out of the office. Fantastic website and blog. Keep up the great work!
I am considering trucking for a living and have doctor prescribed Vicodens. a pain med I take. Is this going to be an issue with passing the drug test?
Wallace
I don’t know which prescriptions are specifically allowed, but you can contact your family doctor and see if he/she gives DOT physicals. If not, find a doctor that does and you should simply be able to ask them over the phone if this is a problem or not.
I know vicoden have a warning with the scrip. it says something to the affect of “NOT TO OPERATE MACHINERY, OR OPERATE A MOTORVEHICLE” so I would say they are not allowed. I know because I had to take them for a time and couldn’t go to my factory job, and when I talked to a recruiter at TDI/CDI in northern Indiana he told me to wait till I was off of them that any kind of prescribed pain meds are not a good mix with driving and I would not get past the tox screen
To all the authors of this website:
I have really enjoyed reading the information, blogs within this website. I am considering getting into a truck driving job again. I haven’t driven in over twenty years, but still have a clean CDL after all this time. I am getting real burned out with my current job and need a change. I never did get much trucking experience; I gave up my trucking job because I had a new born son at the time that I wanted to spend more time with. Between my son being grown up now, and the burnout with my current job I need a job change. I liked driving a truck, but I would still prefer being home more often. I see now that companies are starting to give drivers the option of more home time. Is it really possible to have the best of both worlds, still drive but be home more often? I am just glad I found this website because everything else I have read was all negative.
P.S I really appreciate any help you can give because this a really big move for me.
Thanks,
Troy
Hey Troy.
Ya know, getting into trucking is a big move for everyone that does it. It’s not just a career change, it’s a complete change of lifestyle, and no small task to get through all the schooling and training. But it’s easy enough to get out of it if someone decides it’s not for them, so I don’t believe I’ve ever heard anyone say they regret the decision to take a shot at it. Our site has certainly opened a lot of eyes to the realities of the trucking industry as we present both the positive and negative side so that people can make the right decisions for themselves.
It’s true that there are a lot of companies that offer more hometime than in the past. The regional runs, where you get home most weekends, are far more plentiful than they were 10 years ago because manufacturing and warehousing across the country have regionalized their operations more to improve efficiency of service to their customers. So there are more shorter runs available, and trucking companies are often times able to keep drivers busy, and still within striking distance of their homes on most weekends.
You’ll also find that the technology available today, which didn’t exist when you and I began trucking, like GPS, satellite links to the company, cell phones, wireless internet, collision avoidance systems, etc – make navigation and communication much, much easier than it was in the past. The equipment has changed dramatically too, including the widespread use of automatic transmissions, which no experienced driver likes the sound of, but believe me – once you try one, you’ll never want to go back to shifting. I’ve been there – they’re great! And Chicago has made a lot of changes and eliminated the vast majority of their low bridges! Back in the day you wouldn’t DARE go anywhere in that city unless you were certain of what was up ahead, and dreaded a low bridge around every turn! Not so much anymore.
But you’ll find that the DOT is more strict and the logbook rules have changed. Everyone seems a lot more “serious” when it comes to enforcement of everything, and the traffic has definitely gotten worse over the years. Also, you will have to start from scratch and do the schooling all over again. You will be considered a brand new driver with no experience whatsoever – the insurance companies have made it that way. But don’t feel bad, they do it to people with a million miles under their belt and only 2 years away from the industry. That’s just the way it is – so don’t take it personally – which a lot of guys seem to do. It’s an insurance thing and nothing more.
Join us in the trucker’s forum – it’s full of incredibly friendly, helpful people that would love to welcome you aboard and help guide you back into the industry. We’ll answer any questions ya got and you’ll certainly make some friends along the way.
Best of luck! Hope to hear from you a lot more very soon.
Hi Troy!
So glad you like our stories. We write them to help people and let all know what it is like in the life of a driver–good and bad days and some humor in it too. Just the facts.
Brett said it best to help you get started again. Keep us posted and please come on over to the forum and check that out.
Hey Brett,
Thanks for the very detailed reply to my questions. I had lunch yesterday at an Arizona I 10 truck stop (TA Truck Stop, near Wilcox, AZ) and enjoyed a conversation with a very experienced driver for Old Dominion Freightliner; He told me he was very happy working for them. He has worked for them for about twenty years, so they must be doing something right. Anyway, he said there is a large ODF distribution terminal in Tucson, and that I should check with them about work. He said they probably wouldn’t be hiring now but could be soon. He encouraged me to check them out. It sounds like a good company that pays well, so I will probably check the company out. Thanks again for your website.
In regards to your reply about going back to a school again because of insurance issues, I agree that I will probably need to go to work for another company besides ODF first to get the training and at least a years of current experience. The ODF driver said because I already have a CDL I might be hired to go out with one of ODF experience drivers to prove I can still drive thus skipping the school. Can you please suggest a company that I can gain experience and get current schooling if I do need to do so? The closest company that provides training is Swift Transportation out of Pheonix, but I have read alot of negative blogs about them. I figure a driver’s attitude is mostly what he or she makes of it, but I’m sure some of these bloggers have some justifiable issues with Swift.
Thanks,
Troy
Troy
Hi Bret,
I have found a Vo-Tech that I can get my CDL thru. After reading the Q & A you guys have provided allot of my questions have been answered. Great site btw. Fortunately I have a couple more for you.
After I get my CDL and find a company to work for it’s my understanding that I will have to serve a probation period usually 3 months from what I have herd. My Concerns are having to ride along with a complete stranger for however long they require me to. My questions are. What should I expect when paired up with another driver? What happens if this driver is less then desirable to ride with or I think isn’t giving me the proper instruction or can’t get along. You can see my concerns as it’s hard to put my life in the hands of a complete stranger. One more question. What are the options on bring personal protection in a truck with me? This day and age there are too many crazies out there for me to not want to be unarmed.
Thx in advanced for your responses and you have a grate site here.
Hey Chris – we’re really glad you enjoy the site!
Your concern about who you will be paired with in training is shared by everyone. Generally speaking, most companies will try to work with a driver if they are paired with a trainer that they absolutely do not get along with. As far as the trainer’s driving skills, it is highly unlikely you will find yourself paired with an unsafe trainer – very, very rare. But the training period is generally 4-6 weeks long at most companies and you may find yourself with someone that’s not too much to your liking. The bottom line is to remember that it’s temporary. You do what you have to do to get your new career started out on the right foot, and if that means tolerating someone you aren’t too thrilled with for a month or two, then that’s what you do because it’s well worth it in the end.
Just make sure you keep your cool and don’t do anything dumb – like getting in a fight or getting out of your trainer’s truck somewhere on the road and expecting your company to come get you and take care of you like a child – because they certainly won’t. Believe me, I’m not making this stuff up – it happens more than I care to think about. Be professional, remember that anything worth doing is tough sometime, and trucking is certainly no exception.
Best of luck! Hope we here from you again. Take a look at our trucker’s forum as another great resource for information.
Very interesting site. I’ve been driving since 1991 and have seen/done a majority of what the trucking industry has to offer. Company driver in flats & steps,vans,reefers,dumps(end & bottom) (straight & semi), ready mix, grain,& dry balk pnuematics. Short haul,long haul,local,& big city driving. I’ve solely owned a small trucking company and am currently in a partnership owned company. I would NEVER discourage a person from becoming a truck driver. There is an unexplainable pride in having a hand in keeping this country moving. Trucking is a VERY demanding career that will take you through all spectrums of the emotional scale on a daily basis. PLEASE consider your family when you decide to become a truck driver. It takes special people to be self sufficient while you are away all week or all month – generally an easy fit for prior military types. I wish everyone the best of luck in thier choices. Trucking can be a VERY rewarding career. C’y'all on the road!
Al, I have a question for you. Can money be made as a owner operator in the trucking industry? If so what type of freight dry van, flatbed, tanker,exc. and what kind of tractor and what model year and approximate value of a tractor. Thank y0u
Hi Brett,
I responded to your reply to my blog questions, but I haven’t heard back from you so I thought I would give it another try. I did as you suggested and registered on the website, but according to what I read I will need to reply to an e-mail within 24 hours.
I had mentioned that I haven’t driven for twenty year, I’m considering returning to trucking. I did read the information under “trucking schools” about Swift and that article was very helpful. I just have one more question-What kind of yearly income can a company driver expect after 3-5 years experience? Thanks again to your response to my earlier blog and this current blog.
Troy
I am a government employ and plan on staying that way until I retire. But I also have an itch to drive truck. I would only be able to do it part-time. My vision is that I would work for a company that would allow me the flexibility to take a load, drop it, and return with a load. This may occur in one day or an overnight trip. Flexibility would be the key. I am not interested in being delivery driver for UPS at Christmas time:-) I am interested in “no touch” freight. Have you ever heard of such a thing or am I living a dream?
Hey Troy.
Well, that may wind up being more of a dream. If you had a year or two of experience over-the-road and just happened to come across the right company at the right time, you may find some sort of situation like that. But 99.9% of the time, it’s the driver that need to be flexible and adjust to the load schedule and type of loads, not the other way around. I myself have considered the idea of contacting a local company and being “on call” to take a load or two if extras come up or a driver calls in sick, but I never tried it. Again, right company at the right time and it might work.
But regardless, you would likely need some over-the-road experience first before someone would consider hiring you for something like that. They’d want to know that you can handle a rig, and that they can count on you when called upon. It’s actually very interesting that you mentioned that flexibility would be the key, because I’ve come across situations a million times over the years where drivers are unhappy with the company they’re at, only to find out that they won’t drive when they’re tired, they don’t like driving at night, they won’t drive in the Northeast, they don’t like driving in the snow, and they won’t drive on partly cloudy Thursdays in the second or fourth week of August (you get the idea
), and yet they can’t figure out why they’re not getting any miles!
Trucking requires a lot of dedication, commitment, and sacrifice from the drivers. It’s a tough lifestyle and a very dynamic and unpredictable environment. A driver has to constantly adapt to changing conditions of all sorts – including traffic, weather, load schedules, etc. Basically, when the freight is available, you run it, or someone else will and you can sit. Do that a few times and you’ll be sitting home looking for another job before you know it.
Geez – I just wrote a blog! In fact, I’m going to make it official and write one on the subject right now. Thanks so much for the question! I’ll respond to this again when the blog is written to let you know.
Thanks Brett for the quick response. I was hired by the railroad at one time and basically they said the same thing; be available or we will go to the next guy and that will only happen a few times before termination. First thing I need to do is get my CDL A. I found a school in St Louis, Nuway, and maybe with my work schedule I can figure something out. Thanks!
i currently work as a forklift driver. thinking about getting my cdl. i have 3 more years and my daughter gets out of high school. then 2 more and i will have my 20 at my current job. i work for a ups/fedex type of job. i have 7 years active duty army, vet of war, female, and used to having a take charge attitude, can do it myself type of personality. sooooo is it really that hard being an owner operator. can you really make 175,000 a year doing long haul at certain companys like posted on the back of the trailors. and what does it take to make that much money. do i have to do heavy duty freight? drive the rockies or what. in 5 years my job as i know it might not be there and i might be forced into retiring. i pee clean, have good credit and havent had a traffic accedent or fines in the last 7 years. i dont use fmla, and i show up when i am assigned to. my big question is can i at least make 100,000 a year.
Hi Ida.
Yes, it is incredibly difficult to break even as an owner-operator, let alone turn a profit. Hardly anyone does, and if you look at the steady decline in the number of owner-ops out there over the past few decades, the market is clearly showing that it’s the wrong way to go. Company driving is where it’s at. Oh, you’ll hear stories of people making big revenues doing it, but in 15 years of driving I never once saw an ounce of proof that anyone was actually making a sizable profit – or any profit for that matter. As they always say in business, if it was that easy, we’d all be doing it. I wrote a pretty long and detailed article about exactly why you should never consider becoming an owner operator, and that goes ten-fold for someone who is new to the industry. It’s a guaranteed disaster. Read that article and let me know what ya think.
I hope this helps!
About to make the plunge into trucking. My recruiter mentioned a company that is strictly flat bed, pays first year drivers between 40 and 45 grand a year as an average and guarantees at least 36 weekends a year to be home. I checked them out on the web and verified what he said. Sounds like something I’d be interested in. Does this sound accurate to you and is there any negatives I should be aware of. I know it will be a little more physical that sitting in a van all day, but I prefer that anyway. In your opinion is there still a lot of jobs available in the industry. Thanks Tim
I made a mistake in my previous statement regarding weekends to be home every year. It was 46, not 36. Also wanted to know your opinion on cpm vs percentage. Thanks Again, Tim
I would prefer mileage pay over percentage, simply because you don’t know if what they’re telling you your percentage should be is true or not. It would seem very difficult for a company with narrow profit margins to not “scrape a little extra off the top” for themselves before giving the driver his share. But most flatbed companies do percentage I do believe, so I guess it comes with the territory. I just think percentage adds a whole new can of worms to the mix. The potential for cheating the drivers is too high, and the potential for drivers to feel cheated and become resentful would also seem high. With mileage pay it’s straight up – you know what you’re getting.
Now on that note, companies do pay “trip miles” which are actually around 5%-10% less than the actual miles you will be driving, which in itself has always been considered “cheating” by drivers and causes a lot of resentment. To me, if a company will openly cheat you out of miles – and they almost ALL do it – then why WOULDN’T a company be cheating you when it comes to your percentage, which you have no way of knowing? My answer is – of course they would cheat you if they could – that’s the reality of the business world.
There is indeed still plenty of jobs to be found in the industry.
I have no problem with the idea of someone wanting to drive flatbed. But the problem is you’re doing a whole lot of extra work for a small difference in pay. Trucking is exhausting without having to carry around heavy tarps, chains, and straps and being responsible for securing and releasing all of your loads – in all weather conditions. Plus, the DOT is always on flatbeds because they are easy to inspect for improperly secured loads – and that’s a huge safety issue. Lastly, being a new driver is incredibly difficult to begin with – learning the industry, the job, handling the rig, being away from home, adjusting to the crazy schedules, etc. Adding the burden of flatbedding to the equation makes that first year that much tougher.
But it can definitely be done. I pulled some heavy equipment around on flatbeds locally at times, but over-the-road I never wanted the extra hassle myself. I would rather see somebody that is brand new to trucking start out with a dry van or refrigerated carrier and then switch to flatbed after a year or so, but I would definitely not say that you must do it that way. You’re adding a layer of complexity to an already complex undertaking, but it’s doable if you think you’re up to the challenge.
I just finished Driving school at Tri-State in Middletown, Ohio and feel like the school did a good job. I recieved 5 offers while in the school and decided to go with Werner Enterprises. I go to orientation in Springfield, Ohio on Monday the 26th and then go on the road with a trainer. Just wondering if any of you know anything about Werner and or have any advice. I am looking forward to getting out on the road.
Werner is a great company to start your career with. It’s one of the most common places that new drivers go to work. The absolute best advice I have is to focus on doing whatever it takes to stay with Werner for one full year and keep your safety record clean. They’re going to test you, and there’s going to be times you’ll want to choke someone – that goes for any company you go to work for, certainly not just Werner. But if you’ll stick it out for one full year and keep that safety record clean, you’re going to learn a ton about the trucking industry and driving in general and you’ll be in great shape to either stay with Werner and have a great career there, or see what else the trucking world has to offer.
Keep that goal fresh in your mind at all times – “One full year here – perfect safety record” – make sure everything you do revolves around accomplishing that goal and you’ll find yourself with a great start to your new career. Best of luck to ya!
Hi Brett,
Thank You for your website. It really is helpful for folks thinking of entering the trucking world. It gives me many things to consider that I wouldn’t have otherwise. I receieved my class B CDL just under 2 years ago and I must say that at that time everyone told me to get my class A which in retrospect I should have. I didn’t pursue it because it was a rough winter with over 7 big rig BAD accidents and rollover’s in Vermont. I am thinking about getting it now. I am wondering if a Dedicated Run means going to the same place each trip and then returning? If so, what is a realistic schedule for a “dedicated Run”? What is your thought of joining a company to be a team driver but not knowing who the other team driver would be? I live in Vermont and I used to deliver water well products throughout New England in a box truck. I once had to stop due to a low bridge that was in the middle of a city and not marked. You can imagine the fiasco with traffic behind me. I had to back up quite a distance before I was able to back into an alley. I can’t imagine that happening with a big rig. My thoughts are that with a dedicated run, I would know the route and not have the low bridge snafu along with possibly a better idea of home time. Are these the type of jobs that are hard to come by and not given to new drivers? Any thoughts on team driving would be helpful as well. I am sure I have overlooked many pros and cons. I have driven in New York City and Boston and I can’t imagine kicking around an 18 wheeler in the middle of those 2 cities. Thanks again.
Hi Dave.
First of all, dedicated runs are not easy to come by, but they’re out there. Experienced drivers shoot for em of course, and they don’t always pay quite as well as over-the-road. They usually entail either going to the same place or group of places on a regular basis. The best chance of finding work that gets you home on a more predictable schedule is to either find a dedicated run, find a company that runs a regional fleet that can get you home regularly, or find a local job that will get you home every night, or at least almost every night. You can find jobs like this from companies like Sysco Foods, a beverage distributor like Pepsi or Budweiser, or a company that delivers to local grocery stores and convenient stores like dairies, gasolines trucks, and snack vendors. A typical dedicated or regional run will get you home most weekends, where a local run will get you home most nights. The amount of experience a job like this will require depends on each individual company.
As far as running team with a company and not knowing who the other driver will be – most companies have a simple matching system in place that will try to match you with a driver that has similar traits – like smoking/non-smoking, outgoing or quiet, wants to get home often/stay out long periods, etc. Then once you’re out on the road with that person, you can always request to be placed with someone else. Companies aren’t going to trip over themselves letting you go through 20 drivers in a year or something ridiculous like that, but if you get with one and you have some genuine concerns, they’ll surely match you up with someone else.
I have a comment or question. Are there any trucking companies that will hire part time driver (over the road). So what I am saying is as an example. Out two weeks, home one week. Or anything near that ratio. I like the idea of driving a big rig. Being out of town a couple weeks works for me. Beyond that seems like cruel and unusual punishment. I understand this would be considered parttime. Im good with that.
Hi Richard. Unfortunately, that particular scenario is very rare, especially for new drivers in a slow economy like this. When the economy is moving along well, trucking companies work much harder to attract drivers with sign-on bonuses, better pay and benefits, more home time, and a host of other perks. Right now there are more drivers than there are jobs and companies are not being nearly as welcoming as they were in the past.
There are a lot of regional opportunities, though, which will get you home most weekends. It’s hard for new drivers to get on with regional fleets – often times you may need six months to a year of experience before finding this type of opportunity. Of course there are local jobs that get you home every night but they tend to pay less and require even more experience because so many people would love to be home every night.
The larger dry van companies like Werner, JB Hunt, Schneider, US Xpress, etc are the ones that generally have the most regional opportunities available.
Hi everyone,
First and foremost, I’d like to thank Brett for this amazing website- it’s always the first hit when I google anything related to trucking. I’m 21 years old and currently researching truck driving schools, as the possibility of finishing my college degree seems to quickly be vanishing from my near future. I’m fresh out of college and needless to say, broke, so what I really need is a company that will pay for my school. I have a spotless driving record & have had steady employment since the age of 15, but with the job market the way it is- I desperately need to start thinking “career” and not just “job,” if y’all catch my drift. I was born & raised in Dallas and I’m aware that a few large companies have training centers in and around TX, but I’m having a hard time finding one that will take a 21 year old. I’ve called Stevens & Swift, but each seems to have raised their age requirements to 23 due to insurance restrictions. I have yet to talk to a Prime Inc. representative (or Werner for that matter), but they’ve called & left me voice mail messages letting me know I’ve been pre-approved.
My question is the following: out of the few companies that offer a “free” driving school of their own, which of these would accept a 21 year old with no driving experience? Again, I’m not looking to attend a 3rd party driving school- I don’t exactly have 5 grand to invest right now.
Your comments are much appreciated.
Be safe and God bless,
Gus
Hi Gus.
Honestly, I’m not sure which companies allow 21 y/o’s – company policies change constantly. The running joke has always been that if you don’t like the company you’re at then give it 3 months and it will be a totally different company – and often times it’s true. You’ll just have to do the research to find out who is allowing 21 y/o’s right now.
Also, as far as the independent schools go (3rd party) – there are a lot of trucking companies that will make your tuition payments for you as long as you work for them. So if you can get financial aid for your schooling – that is an option worth considering.
Not being able to locate any blog on which the issue of insurance companies control over the hiring and firing of drivers, I am putting my question here.
I read a message from a driver saying that he was fired because a trucking company insurance company refused to insure because of 1 23 years old ticket.
So my questions are:
How many years are driving records retained by the various state and Federal government agencies?
Why does the DMV fail to provide at least the same MVR to the driver as they provide to the driver?
And in line with the above question, is there any way a driver can obtain his MVR for the same period that is provided to either the companies insurance company or the company?
How long a state retains driving records varies from state to state – but the MVR you get will be the same one your company gets. Companies do quite extensive background checks – and they don’t miss a thing – trust me. The main rules that companies apply to driving and criminal records are regarding DUI’s and felonies – no DUI’s or felonies within the past 7 years at some companies, and other companies will not allow anyone who has ever had a DUI or felony in their lifetime. If someone was terminated from something 23 years ago then they likely had a DUI or felony and didn’t reveal it – and it took the company a little while to find it in their background checks.
Everything that a company will request regarding your criminal or driving background will include a time frame. For example, “Have you ever had a DUI or felony?” or “Have you had any misdemeanors in the past 3 years?” – things like that. People are constantly trying to hide things in their past but I’m tellin you – it almost never works. Be honest with them when filling out your application – otherwise it will catch up to you shortly down the road.
hello im a recent graduate of a trucking school located in fenton …MIchigan…..i am having a hard time finding a job because of my gender …..ive heard no female trainers out of the hiring range ..not enough experience…..i went thru the no workers left behind program…….but im still being left behind …..im a bit discouraged…..any suggestions or help anyone may provide would be greatly appreciated
Unfortunately with the poor economy there has been a huge influx of people into the trucking industry and trainers are in high demand – especially female trainers. There has always been somewhat of a shortage of female trainers, but it’s much worse right now. I wish I could offer some clear-cut solutions, but there really aren’t any. The only thing you can really do is constantly keep applying to trucking companies that accept students and find a place that will have one available in a reasonable amount of time.
There are companies that allow a male trainer to have a female student but understandably not everyone is comfortable with this idea.
Otherwise it’s just an unfortunate matter of circumstances. It’s not that anyone is being prejudiced towards women, it’s just a simple imbalance of supply and demand – not enough female trainers for all the new female students coming into the industry. Keep trying different companies and be diligent – sooner or later (hopefully sooner) you’ll find a female trainer and you’ll be out there truckin along.
I am ahving a hard time getting a job. My last company listed 4 accidents on my DAC, which in fact was only two. How can I get a job. Thanks
Well, I hate to state the obvious first, but you have to get that DAC report straightened out first and foremost. After that, the most important thing when it comes to finding work in the trucking industry right now is persistence. There is such a flood of applicants right now that the recruiters are having a tough time keeping up. Apply to as many jobs as you possibly can and call each of them back about every other day until you can get a recruiter on the phone to process your application. Otherwise it will likely sit there in a pile and get overlooked. Be persistent – make them process your application and get the ball rolling.
We have a huge truck driving jobs database which would be a great place to start. Tons of jobs, it’s completely free to use, and no registration required. Fill out all the apps you like!
I have applied to several Truck Driving schools, C.R. England, Prime Inc., Swift, etc..I have been reading your blogs for while now, and definetly answered all my / most of my questions. What do these companies look at from previous emplyment? I did have one speeding ticket recently, and only one in long time…no criminal history, credit report seems to be ok and don’t use drugs. What could be the hold up?
Hey Chris.
Right now, the hold-up is the economy and the slow season. The economy is terrible of course – we’re all painfully aware of that. But every year from mid-December through maybe March or so is the slowest time of the year for trucking and most companies, especially in this economy, will do very little hiring during that time. They will be hiring – but slowly. More opportunities will be readily available in the spring.
Also, because there is such a flood of new drivers coming into the trucking industry these schools are overwhelmed with applications. In order to get a shot, you have to get their attention. I always suggest calling every company you applied to at least every other day until you can get someone in recruiting on the phone and get them to pull up your application and process it. Otherwise it will likely sit on a pile collecting dust forever. Be persistent. Apply to all of the company sponsored CDL training programs you can find and keep calling them until they process your application. It may take some time – it’s hard to say. You may not have a ton of luck right now because of the slow season but the persistence will certainly pay off. It’s mostly about being in the right place at the right time so stay after them and keep your fingers crossed. Best of luck!
Hi Brett
i am writing because i am having a hard time finding the right school for the job. i live in joliet IL. and i was just wondering if you have a list of recomended schools in my area. and that have at least a 95% job placement thank you hope to here from you soon.
Hi Jose.
Actually, I personally know someone who went to Eagle Training Services in your area and they are an outstanding school. They are certified by the State of Illinois which is a really big deal in your state. My friend was incredibly happy with the school and would recommend it to anyone. I’ve spoken with the director several times and she has even done some blogging on TruckingTruth. Check out their website at http://eagletrainingservices.com/ and get in touch with them. I don’t think you’ll find better school in your area – they do a great job. And if you look around TruckingTruth you’ll find that I almost never recommend a particular school or trucking company, but this one has proven itself to be very good.
Hope this helps!