Comments By Ted P.

You have to get used to being paid a small amount because of your lack of experience, it doesn't really matter where you're going or driving for, after you're driving for at least six months consistently then and only then you can expect the pay increase. This is a troubling time for you, you're going to want to look into other people's backyard and see the grass is greener in their yard then your own. Sorry to use the saying, however it is true. You must drive your truck responsibly, remember this if you remember anything else,. YOU trust but verify everything. Directions, addresses, and routes you need to drive...

Another useful task for you to practice, stay out of the truck stops. It's expensive even if you don't think so. When you're sleeping and surviving in that truck, live in that truck as you would if you were living alone, you don't go out to eat every time you have a meal, you will gain weight... get into the habit of exercising and walking around your truck after you wake up, regardless the temperature outside, you will need to say somewhat physically active while on the road, it helps it helps a lot. If needs be go to a Walmart or some other grocery store of some kind, buy food and survive just in that truck. In a way it's like going camping, me personally I had an emergency service in the truck just in case I had to go to the bathroom, camping type of porta potties are available for camping needs. No it isn't what everyone talks about but everyone understands depending on what you eat depends on how solid your stool is but it is a bodily function that we cannot deny, and it is irresponsible thinking to ignore it, most drivers use a old water bottle as a urinal, it's a good way to keep you out of the truck stops, controlling one's bodily functions is a skill that you learn, unfortunately. It is also the main reason why truck drivers are looked at to be very disgusting people because most people forget to get rid of that on a daily basis. If you are responsible with it it's no big deal,

For the most part all of the information I am giving you is needed information especially when you're starting out by yourself, learn about the job, and or lifestyle, it is not something you can just go to work and come home, because once you deliver the load you have to be ready to leave immediately to do it again. there are a few key issues that you need to address or have addressed just in case.

Your safety in that truck, no it is not legal for most companies to carry a firearm in that truck, but you can have other tools available for you just in case an intruder breaks into the truck while you're in it, tire thumpers are always a good tool to use in this, another is wasp spray (be careful with that one) I would strongly suggest look into some legal service to follow you in your career just in case. I did, the only way a driver can actually make money being a truck driver is to own the truck. Once you get to that point the money changes drastically. Earning a $900 paycheck a week gross is pretty typical. but if you stick at it you can make a decent life for yourself and your family. Being an owner is a bigger responsibility and a bigger cost to you, a good thing not to do is dream, focus on the task at hand and you will be fine... Sorry for the book, but I do pick on a few topics that are REAL and problemsome when you are on the road... When driving respect other people, even if they don't deserve it. Watch your distance...

Another point I can bring up very short, is vehicle spacing, when I were actively driving it's called the Smith system, a lot of trucking companies adapted to the system and are teaching our drivers to do the same. The Smith System, teaches drivers to look as far as possible there was second of every minute of every hour of every day, when you are driving down the road, Leave yourself and out, means leave yourself space next to you to maneuver if you need to, try to stay eight or nine seconds away from the vehicle in front of you, this is where the skill kicks in I have more experience guessing what drivers are going to do before they do it then you do, insurance companies have that part right.... Going up and down mountains take your time there's a lot at stake, your safety is key, there is no such thing as freight being more important than the driver. most toll bridges have available what's called is a bridge map, it's a map that signifies low clearance for semis that have height of 13 ft 6 in, I strongly suggest you get one ASAP. They're only available for local routes for drivers that are not from that town. Their availabile in cities your going towards.

Question for all of you more experienced drivers. So I’m going out to Nashville tomorrow for orientation but I’m a little skeptical on the .32cpm and how I’m going to make a living on it. Even at 3000 miles a week it’s 960 gross, which is going to be a hard pill to swallow. I guess I’m asking if there are any of you who currently work for western express who can give me tips on how to make more money or if they truly start you off at .32cpm?

I haven't read this, I am glad you made a decision. there are a few pointers I could give you as a suggestion, first listen to your "gut" whenever your driving, up hills don't always go down in the gear lower, sometimes it is lower than that. Listen to your trainer, or ask the forum here... If the "trainer" has a "radio" stay off of it. most trainers don't let the trainee touch it. Other than that yes, I could fill your head with allot of mumbo jumbo but I won't... Just be sure you try talking to us once you get into the truck by yourself... I would suggest you get a Rand McNally road atlas for Tractor Trailers... Blow up addition, it shows more, not all GPS's are a good fit for a Big Truck. most of the ones available are made for cars, NOT trucks, road weights do change faster then the service can update. From what I know I could flood you with info you do not need now. SO if needs be, Contact this and I will see it...K....good luck

I would "Text" you but not knowing your sleeping schedule I don't want to come off as being rude or inconsiderate to your needs... I have O/O 3 times before in the past one successful purchase program, but that deal I got in 2004 was a "dream" come true...LOL

I baught a 2003 Pete with a 600hp cat, split 18 and hauled liquid freight for like 6 years. ended up selling the truck about in 2010 after my divorce. So I do know things, research using a "fuel card" system it does help manage fueling while on the road. I used "trucker resolutions" which used a fuel card EFS system. and they handled maintenance account for me as well... another really good source for going to "Lease purchase" is getting a 3rd party truck from a dealer and getting financing through a bank or a Cooperate silent investor... that is how I did it, you get the money you need to get the truck's final authority quicker and they make a financial benefit from doing this, yes there is a contract that you must honor, but the freedom is way better then an option of leasing through a company, where unless you have 50% of the truck paid off, they are going to treat you as just an employee for the most part, once you have bought the truck 60% or more, then the situation changes... I had insurance through where I used for the families cars' so I got a big deal for having a Corporate account and for using them as a personal account as well. fuel card comes in handy with this deal cause everyone needs gas to get around as well. IF this is something you are considering, look into the state you reside in about the cost involved getting or becoming an "LLC" some states cost, some it is free, lucky for me Wisconsin is free, don't let any company convince you it has a cost before you look, it is the biggest ploy for them to "rob" you...

I set up a business called "PaPa Trucking" I miss it because I had the truck Optimus Prime was made out of, too bad I sold it... but if you do your "homework" you'll be fine. I hired an attorney to do the lease contract, but it was more than 10 years ago for that... I did email you, and you can give me your times you are awake so I do not disturb your sleeping schedule if you do call or text...K ..... In my opinion, this isn't something to get into unless you have at least 5 years of driving under your belt with an accident free record, MY opinion.. I haven't been in an accident in 12 years presently, at the time I had a attorney on retainer and finances set aside for accidents and fixing the truck which everyone needs already set aside, either way please be careful, going bankrupt while Leasing has catastrophic consequences....

I have read the negative reasons in the forum why new drivers should not become lease operators. I am sure there is wisdom in being cautious when starting out. I am not in any hurry but I do like to research things in advance. I wonder if some of you who are lease operators would be willing to dialogue with me directly through email (raif.turner@gmail.com) or text messaging (806-789-8877).

If not, I would also welcome your input here in the forum.

Thank you for your information.

NOW since you have replied so quickly , I personally would suggest going to a LTL carrier, job pays well and your home to have a "life" more so than a road carrier, With that being said now your experience would be a question for their recruiters to answer, every company is different. they are Local for the most part, situations do happen and hotels are usually the option at that point, Holland regional are local trucks ( Haz-mat required and tank endorsement required as well, even on a road fleet, but they sleep in motels every time there driving time is up... and that part is nice... NO truck stop BS... Don't take my word for it... give them a call...

Yes, a refreshers course is the only option you have at this point. most recruiters will say, " you do not have enough recent experience." I would suggest the same as the other drivers that have commented as well, there are other carriers out there than just (Prime, Schneider, Swift, Werner, Roehl, etc....) the bigger the carrier, the more insurance they have for training students, you might have opportunities' in other carriers all the more, covenant, and US Xpress are good ones as well, I wouldn't suggest US Xpress since like Arnold has just automatic trucks, and they do not offer a versatile experience as many carriers offer, but this might just be me.

Got my CDL back in 2018 of November with no Endorsements. Worked in the Oilfield as Frac for a year and 3 months, up until January 21st 2020. Other Companies dont count that as experience because i wasnt driving constantly. I just want to do OTR and get experience. Werner, Cfi told me no, im sure the other companies i applied will also.

Please anybody know who can take me in for OTR?

So yall are saying i can call a recruiter and ask for a refresher course? Or ask for cdl training program?

If you getting a "sleep apnea test" asking the company your intending on going to "who do you accept" is the question to ask, IF they only use there Doctor office, the "LAW" is you are entitled to a second opinion, and they say you need it, but your doctor says otherwise, according to the "safety protocol" your family doctor reigns supreme, legally... Most Drivers aren't equipped to do this so doing as they suggest is usually the best course of action. just throwing that out there.... driving for a company they "rule" if O/O I rule, it does change the situation, most Companies don't ask if your O/O it is up to you to handle you... I am a big guy also, I am 6'4" 265lbs. I have been dealing with this "sleep apnea issue" for a long time... and sewed 4 companies because of it... all cases were settled out of court, no it isn't thought as admittance, but this issue never came up again... ME personally I'd never do "company driver", I am leading towards office Manager now, or Dispatcher manager presently... I do work from home... take care

Just got off the phone with my Prime recruiter. I’m officially starting with Prime on the 25th. They wouldn’t have even accepted the outside sleep apnea test.

I would "Text" you but not knowing your sleeping schedule I don't want to come off as being rude or inconsiderate to your needs... I have O/O 3 times before in the past one successful purchase program, but that deal I got in 2004 was a "dream" come true...LOL

I baught a 2003 Pete with a 600hp cat, split 18 and hauled liquid freight for like 6 years. ended up selling the truck about in 2010 after my divorce. So I do know things, research using a "fuel card" system it does help manage fueling while on the road. I used "trucker resolutions" which used a fuel card EFS system. and they handled maintenance account for me as well... another really good source for going to "Lease purchase" is getting a 3rd party truck from a dealer and getting financing through a bank or a Cooperate silent investor... that is how I did it, you get the money you need to get the truck's final authority quicker and they make a financial benefit from doing this, yes there is a contract that you must honor, but the freedom is way better then an option of leasing through a company, where unless you have 50% of the truck paid off, they are going to treat you as just an employee for the most part, once you have bought the truck 60% or more, then the situation changes... I had insurance through where I used for the families cars' so I got a big deal for having a Corporate account and for using them as a personal account as well. fuel card comes in handy with this deal cause everyone needs gas to get around as well. IF this is something you are considering, look into the state you reside in about the cost involved getting or becoming an "LLC" some states cost, some it is free, lucky for me Wisconsin is free, don't let any company convince you it has a cost before you look, it is the biggest ploy for them to "rob" you...

I set up a business called "PaPa Trucking" I miss it because I had the truck Optimus Prime was made out of, too bad I sold it... but if you do your "homework" you'll be fine. I hired an attorney to do the lease contract, but it was more than 10 years ago for that... I did email you, and you can give me your times you are awake so I do not disturb your sleeping schedule if you do call or text...K ..... In my opinion, this isn't something to get into unless you have at least 5 years of driving under your belt with an accident free record, MY opinion.. I haven't been in an accident in 12 years presently, at the time I had a attorney on retainer and finances set aside for accidents and fixing the truck which everyone needs already set aside, either way please be careful, going bankrupt while Leasing has catastrophic consequences....

I have read the negative reasons in the forum why new drivers should not become lease operators. I am sure there is wisdom in being cautious when starting out. I am not in any hurry but I do like to research things in advance. I wonder if some of you who are lease operators would be willing to dialogue with me directly through email (raif.turner@gmail.com) or text messaging (806-789-8877).

If not, I would also welcome your input here in the forum.

Thank you for your information.

Yes, a refreshers course is the only option you have at this point. most recruiters will say, " you do not have enough recent experience." I would suggest the same as the other drivers that have commented as well, there are other carriers out there than just (Prime, Schneider, Swift, Werner, Roehl, etc....) the bigger the carrier, the more insurance they have for training students, you might have opportunities' in other carriers all the more, covenant, and US Xpress are good ones as well, I wouldn't suggest US Xpress since like Arnold has just automatic trucks, and they do not offer a versatile experience as many carriers offer, but this might just be me.

Got my CDL back in 2018 of November with no Endorsements. Worked in the Oilfield as Frac for a year and 3 months, up until January 21st 2020. Other Companies dont count that as experience because i wasnt driving constantly. I just want to do OTR and get experience. Werner, Cfi told me no, im sure the other companies i applied will also.

Please anybody know who can take me in for OTR?

So yall are saying i can call a recruiter and ask for a refresher course? Or ask for cdl training program?

As much as some people don't know this the concern of the Doctor isn't a weight issue as it is a neck diameter.... Depending on the "carrier" does depend on the Doctor, or service used... Concentra is usually used for the most part. I have been dealing with Concentra for the better side of 10 years, and the Doctors there I golf with occasionally... Keeping the "Doctor" in your friend network is always a good idea, for this reason as well, IF they know you personally it is a conflicting authority that these other Doctor's opinion would NOT be a valid concern... with this being said, If the situation goes to court the other doctor will look over-cautious... ( My opinion) In my life it has gotten to that point. Managing weight IS a major issue in the truck, for most of US on the road, it is a hard battle, even when it is very cold outside. self motivation is harder to stay positive, but must be handled. Sleep apnea has always been a concern IF you are a bigger guy, or gal. and always will be. also to think about if your older getting someone younger in that truck is better for the company rather them taking there chance on just you. with this being said, and you have received the sleep apnea test they require, then that lasts 2 years as well as the Fed Med card they will give you. it isn't the point that they are cautious, the fact is that you have to second guess there request before they ask for it. public safety is there main concern. with all due respect.

Just got done with my physical to get my clp but they only gave me a 3 month card and brochure for a sleep apnea study. Wilson and Roehl have pulled back there offers and I am sure Prime will too. Sleep like a baby every night but this damn dr swears I must have apnea because of my neck is over 17 inches. It was stressful enough changing careers now this. Sorry had to rant, now back to your normal broadcast.

From my experience, freight lanes depend on the broker, just cause some carriers do not have allot of freight it can change from day to day, so stay positive, the next thing is the experience level of you supposed co-driver, the company will make sure that person has more then you, most companies have a SOP(standard operating procedure) when it comes to training, he/she might just drive you to get the miles you offer, verses teaching you anything since D.O.T. requires a certain amount of hours for you to be behind the wheel before your on your own... mileage pay suck, really... it is what it is, but I haven't been paid mileage in more than a few years, the time I left the road I was at top scale and that was 1.45 a mile loaded, and usually had to broker my own load back to a high freight lane through another broker... it can get complicated, but most O/O go through this exact thing...

If you really want to make some big green get into Tank work open bore, that is where the money is, usually start is 55 cpm low end, and goes up from there... and most decent companies pay more than just mileage there, shut down pay, safety pay, etc... tank work is also way more dangerous then a "door swinger", LOL those hoses get dirty and must be re-sanitized for the next load, so most of the time your driving around a trailer going back and forth with a very small amount of product in the trailer that needs to get cleaned out... anyways...

Tampa huh, wow I have more than a few people I know down there... including family. another thing you might want to hope you have the opportunity with is driving through the Rocky's in the winter time, granted it isn't like Florida but it is a different driving experience altogether different... Mountain driving can get dangerous in itself, road conditions, constructions, and other unseen hazards can change very quickly... I don't know if you know this but it is illegal for any person to be on the top bunk while the truck is in motion, make sure you have a sleeping bag, and maybe a pillow with a bag on it... just in case, not talking this BS virus, but other issues you might want to protect yourself against, keep your feel clean and dry as much as possible, and don't drive in "sandals", if you do don't get out f the truck that way, most people get in trouble that way... driving team is different than driving solo, he /she must drive or stay moving about 600 or so miles to make REAL progress, yes, trucks break down but if this happens too much your not gong to make any money, there are good weeks and bad, so good luck either way, I wish you the best, cause I never could sleep in a moving truck...take care... happy new year...

Sometimes things don't go all as planned, so we take a step back, turn, and move along. For me, like most on this forum, that's sliding into a seat behind a big steering wheel. All the reasons aside, once the decision was made the challenge of finding the best place for me to start began.

Getting the CDP here in FL isn't going to be difficult, COVID (rather our Gov.) hasn't shut us down to needing appointments. I can even get the license for a reasonable fee just an hour away, though I've yet to see the benefit. It's finding that company that will not only give me the training I'll need, but fulfill the ultimate purpose and pay my bills. Sure, who doesn't like the idea of commanding a big rig? Yet, I'm not a kid right outa school so that isn't enough to move me from my comfort zone. I need to know who's training well enough and paying well enough for grown up bills.

I'm in FL. As they say, everything comes here but nothing leaves, so that alone limits the opportunities.

Having a long and clean driving record, and able to pass a bg check for hazmat; I'm getting calls. Seems the best offer so far is team driving with Pam. Ya'll can update the training section cuz they're offering $0.48 right after training which is only two weeks (at $350/wk) after classes. Recruiter at CRST wasn't happy with me when I mentioned that.

I do think two weeks of OTR training is light, but it's offset with another driver's eyes. I'm also pretty confident in my own ability to pick it up, but worried my co-driver will be inexperienced as well. I wish all I needed to do was soak up skills for a year, but I've got people dependent on me so getting the miles at the top pay has to be part of the equation. It doesn't hurt that Driver's Solutions classes are just over an hr away from my home and the idea of getting my CDL in the upper midwest in Jan chills my southern blood.

So I reckon I started this thread to look at my own thought processes and see if anyone would offer up a different perspective, or better, just agree with me.

And for the trucker bringing my wife's Christmas present from CA, drive safe but hurry, yer late!

Merry Christmas all.

Just like "Jammer said, relax, the voyage into a trucking company isn't one to take lightly... it is allot of "red tape" but there are companies that you haven't checked that might work out IF you are willing to look.... for instance; Werner is a decent company to go for, and they train ( IF memory serves) with you having a felony you can't go past the "Canadian line", U.s.xpress, Covenant Transport, Schneider, sometime it does matter what the felony was for, but being 11 years old it shouldn't be an issue, (really) I'd request to chat with "safety" not recruiting, but this is me... Knight bought most of Swift trucks, so try them, or Riverside transport, don't do J.B.Hunt there for experienced drivers... I will chat with a buddy of mine who works at swift and let you know tomorrow sometime...K

Thanks PackRat. I have applied to every major carrier that I know of, and they all denied me for various reasons. Some of the were because of my felony in 2009 and the other were because of my careless driving in 2006.

I would also like to state that I avoided carriers that require hair follicle tests. I can do urine test just fine. I’m choosing not to wait the 3 to 6 months for the hair test because I’ve already been out of work for a month waiting to go to CDL school, and I simply cannot afford it.

I know my math is incorrect, but total 3 accidents in a quad axle, and 2 non-preventable investigated with Werner, O/O, and Swift.... sorry for the correction, IF you went through a "company school then fired, you could go to a private school, IF this isn't a choice, there are other outfits you could try that most "Company schools" would be OK with... Waist management is ALWAYS looking for hiring drivers, they don't look at it as your a "driver" your delivering garbage... a "roll off" truck is like a dump truck more or less... you just put the "box" down on the ground... there is always LTL as an option also, not to mention NON-CDL work that leads to CDL work, it just takes time... there are allot of chances to work in the Driver field, just do not quit looking.... job center, or indeed etc.... someone is looking, might even go to "Covenant Transport" they mandate every driver to team once out of training...