Question.

Hope it's ok for me to ask this...from my understanding, different companies specialized in different types of transport (reefer, flatbed, etc) and some have more than one type.

If for example I'm interested in Roehl because of their flexible home time, what are my options? I've read that they mostly do flatbeds, and I don't think that's a good idea for me to do that. I don't want to have to handle tarps, straps and such. I don't think I'm strong enough for it. I want to drive, not break my back. I also read that reefers are often coast to coast, and again, probably not a good idea if I want to be home every week.

Roehl has all the options. Van, Reefer , Flatbed.

Hope it's ok for me to ask this...from my understanding, different companies specialized in different types of transport (reefer, flatbed, etc) and some have more than one type.

If for example I'm interested in Roehl because of their flexible home time, what are my options? I've read that they mostly do flatbeds, and I don't think that's a good idea for me to do that. I don't want to have to handle tarps, straps and such. I don't think I'm strong enough for it. I want to drive, not break my back. I also read that reefers are often coast to coast, and again, probably not a good idea if I want to be home every week.

A friend of mine drove for Ruan and loved them. Check them out

Don't forget I'm in Western MA... ;)

Roehl has all the options. Van, Reefer , Flatbed.

Thank you :)

My friend drove for Roehl on their 14 on 7 off deal and he pulled reefers mainly between Atlanta and Chicago or Wisconsin. They have nice equipment and seem to do a good job with upkeep. His only complaint was he didn't get to go out west while he was with them.

With Roehl, you can choose from dry van , reefer , curtainside, or flatbed. How much freight they have for each one really depends on the area you will be driving in. When I was hired, I just asked the recruiter what drivers they were looking for in my area and since at that moment they were short on van drivers, that is what I went with. I believe you said before that you would be based out of the Springfield yard. Whenever I have gone through there I have only seen dry vans. Maybe another Roehl driver that knows that area better can chime in, but my guess would be that your best bet with them will be dry van.

Ask your recruiter. Even if they may be pushing a specific fleet at you, they may still be hiring in your area for the one you are interested in.

Thanks Hrynn! :)

I also remember you told me that the Spfld yard was tight! Better practice a lot at trucking school! I don't want to hit anything!

Weatherman, as much as I'd like to see the whole country, for now I'd be happy just visiting anywhere....New England is nice, but asides from FL, I haven't seen anything else in the USA.... :)

It sounds like you're narrowing "what" you want in the job and that's good.

I say apply to all and then see who can offer the type of work you want. Some will quickly fall away and you'll have a nice group of candidate companies from which to choose.

I had a hard time believing there could be that many companies willing to make me an offer, but you'll find plenty. In the end, probably one or two will stand out.

Just remember; you're still applying for the job until they hand you the keys.

Good luck.