This is a little advice for those considering a new career in the industry. We know our program however great we believe it is, is not going to be the perfect fit for everyone’s needs. So read this so you’ll know what to ask before working for a trucking company.
Truck driving jobs are always available, but in today’s economy, the schools are more finicky than in the past so that they can get the best and safest drivers possible. In fact, the standards are much higher now than they were just 5 years ago. A truck driver candidate does not need to be perfect, but having a good work history, a clean driving record, and a minimal past criminal record will get you started.
Different personalities are needed for different jobs in trucking. For those who like to be at home in the evenings, day runs work for them. These drivers may have a personal responsibility to family or just like to sleep in there own king size bed every night. For those who love to travel, long hauls are a better fit. This is for people that love to see the country and the open road. Whatever the priority, truck drivers need to pick a job that best fits them.
Those looking for a truck driver job should read points below on which jobs to accept and which ones to steer away from.
- Income – Most people choose the job for the highest pay. If you are flexible enough, take that direction. But if you have priorities that are more important than the pay, make sure your money received is enough to pay your bills before accepting a job. If you find the perfect job, but it doesn’t pay enough to cover your bills, you have the option of refusing the job or finding ways to cut your budget to make it work.
- Policy of Home Time – For most drivers, home time is a big factor to choosing a job. A large portion of trucking companies gives more home time to those who have worked there the longest. If you choose a job that does not have every night home, you may have to pay your dues for a few years to gather more time at home. Different companies have different home time policies from each other. Regional jobs could keep you within an average of 7 states, allowing you to get home more often. Make sure you know what you are getting into.
- Freight Type – Different companies haul different freight. If you are in it for the money, you are probably interested in heavy haul. If flat bed intrigues you, there are plenty of Trucking Companies that you can drive for. There are plenty of different types of freight to haul. If you are a driver that enjoys hook up and roll, find the company that gives you that responsibility. Choose the one you would enjoy the most before accepting that job!
- Reputation of The Company You Work For – Talk to drivers who work for the company you are interested in. There will always be those drivers who will complain even if they have it good. Make sure you are comfortable with the reputation of the company you will be working for.
- Quality of Equipment – In the interview process, ask the Company how new their equipment is and their maintenance program to see if the truck will keep you moving. The newer models are usually connected to lease/purchase options. If you need to, ask other drivers in the company to get their opinion.
I like the analogy of “Asking former employees what their company was like is like asking a republican what they think of democrats.” After you laugh, think about it. Getting the scoop may include reading between the lines. Also, check out how long the company has been in business and their reputation. Search the Internet and read up on the company you are interested in working for.
Also ask questions that affect your personal situation. Do they allow pets, how many terminals do they have, locations, and other questions that you need answers too. Do your research and be willing to pay your dues. Good Luck!