Advice On FFE/Central Refrigerated And Getting Into Trucking At 52

Hello Brett and all,

I am about to make a decision within the next day or so on FFE. I applied and have been told I can attend the accelerated course as I have the card but do not have any experience. I chose FFE after research on company paid training and have tried to make an informed decision. They seem like a good choice, but I would like to make the correct one. I applied to Central Ref yesterday as a second choice.

I would greatly appreciate advice/comments/help with this. I am 52. Too late to start this career?

Thanks in advance and Brett, keep up the great site!

Jeff

The average age for a driver is in the mid 40s. There is no age discrimination. In fact, companies prefer older drivers because they are usually more mature and take less chances. As long as you can pass the DOT physical you got a job. So you are definitely not too old for trucking!

I currently drive for Central Refrigerated and I can tell you right now that its no different than FFE. We both haul food and we are often times both delivering and picking up at the same customers. The only real difference is the colors of the trucks. FFE is a great company so if you feel like they meet your needs then go for it!

Its good that you have done your research. If FFE is setting up a start date for you and willing to train you then I would gladly take it if I were you. Like I said, both companies are identical.

FFE Training Diary

That's a journal of a driver who came through here who went to FFE. You should definitely check that out.

So if FFE fits your needs then go for it. You aren't making a bad call they are a great company. And remember, your age isn't a problem as long as you can pass the DOT physical. Have a good day - hope I helped.

Thank you Daniel for you much needed and appreciated reply. It was a 'shot in the arm' that I have needed, as most people I mention this to are against me going into the trucking world. It was also good to read that FFE new driver blog, as it resonated my circumstances. One never knows where life will take them, and how the cards will be dealt. But knowing there are great people like you who can relate and have 'been there' in this choice makes a difference. I wish you success at Central and in your life.

as most people I mention this to are against me going into the trucking world.

Same here. Believe it or not but I am currently 22 years old. I went to trucking a week after I turned 21 and have been at it ever since. When I told my folks that I wanted to do trucking they completely disagreed. They told me straight up that they don't think I can handle the job nor could I handle driving something so massive. My dad told me I should be an electrician. He didn't take it too kindly that I went against what he wanted but eventually he accepted it.

But it sure feels good to be where I am now and telling them "told you I could!"

Ignore the negative people. If you give it all you got and do it with a positive and profession attitude then you will make it! Come into trucking motivated to prove those people who are against it wrong.

To help you prepare before school you should do our exclusive High Road Training Program. It will prepare you for trucking. If you complete that program, we guarantee you will easily pass the permit test and be the "know-it-all" in your classroom. I did it over a year ago when I was in your position and I am very thankful that I did. Its totally free!

We have awesome CDL Practice Tests for you to do.

We also have a collection of articles that will definitely answer a lot of your questions and concerns.

Thinking about becoming a truck driver?

Is trucking right for you?

Consider the time spent alone.

Is it in your blood?

This is what your first year will be like.

Here's a interesting FAQ

As if you're not overwhelmed enough at this point. Here's Brett's Book for you. This will give you an inside look at life on the road. Its a very good read, I know that because I've read it. Definitely read this from beginning to end.

So... you have a lot of preparation to do. Company sponsored schools are extremely fast paced. Before you get into all of that make sure you are well prepared. The class will be on edge, everyone will be tense. Meanwhile, you'll be on cruise control.

Thanks. I appreciate your time and encouragement. Ah the days when I was 21. A lifetime ago and how time flies.

My only advantage right now is that I have my class a in my pocket. Actually obtained it many years ago thinking I would go into UPS. So, on paper I have gone though a school and had that road test. But I have forgotten most of it and hence the refresher. In one way I would be learning all over, but without the sweating of that exam.

I read Brett's online book and some of the articles, all helpful. Many questions have been answered along the way.

Thanks again and keep it safe.