Profile For Billy Bob

I am currently a flatbed driver with 8 months experience and will likely stay til the 1 year mark at least but I am seriously considering switching to dry van because I'm sick of throwing tarps (90% of loads are tarped). I'd consider staying flatbed if I can find a company 25% tarp or less. Wondering if anyone had any recommendations for a dry van company with good pay (currently 48cpm and 51 in 4 months, dont want to take a big pay cut) , new trucks, prefer APU, pet friendly (cat), and run all 48 states or most at least, I love driving out west but need them to hire out of South Florida. Also a truck faster than 65 would be nice but I wont hold my breath on that one! Any advice is appreciated, I want to hear from drivers because I dont trust the recruiters. I've heard the horror stories of them lying just to get you there and last thing I want to do is quit to go to a bad company so please share your experiences as a driver, thanks!

Billy Bob, look at the post that is currently below yours. Starting a career at 59. All the info you need. Welcome to the forum

Thanks Tractor man! Those companies either don't provide CDL training or don't allow pets though :( but I definitely need to dig further into that career guide and read Brett's book.

I'm looking to start an OTR trucking career but not sure which company to start with... I don't have a CDL yet but am almost ready to pass the learners permit exam. I live in Fort Lauderdale, FL (near Miami) but wouldn't mind going to another state for the training if the company's worth it. I'm looking for a thorough but not excessively long company sponsored CDL training (don't want to wait 6 months to bring my kitty on board). A pet policy is a must for 1 or maybe 2 cats and decent starting pay. Newer trucks with an automatic transmission, APU, fridge and good equipment is a big plus. I'm still researching but see mixed reviews between live load & drop and hook. which is better? Pros vs. cons? Dry van vs. reefer? I'm in this for the long haul and want to be sure I'm headed down the right road from the start. Any helpful advice is appreciated and if I missed anything else I should take into consideration then please advise. Thank you!