After receiving your commercial driver's license (CDL), you can become a truck driver and earn a high salary while enjoying a variety of benefits. After graduation, the first step in beginning your career is deciding which trucking firm you want to work for.
There are a lot of alternatives available, which can be confusing. Your search for organizations that are recruiting new drivers can be whittled down with the assistance of our job placement support team. It's a good idea to consider your priorities before agreeing to work with a carrier. So, before you type the keyword “truck driving jobs” in google, keep in mind these tips for choosing a trucking company.
1. Freight Type
You should decide what kind of freight you are interested in first. Dry vans are typically easier to carry and have more work openings for new license holders, thus many CDL graduates start off driving them. A job driving refrigerated trucks (reefers) can potentially be an alternative. Hazardous materials (hazmat) are one of the most specialized categories of freight that frequently, but not always, need for prior trucking knowledge.
2. Benefits & Pay
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The salaries and benefits that each company provides are the easiest way to compare them. Although this isn't the entire tale, it can be an excellent starting point. The majority of over-the-road (OTR) trucking jobs pay per mile, so take into account both their rate and the number of miles you may reasonably anticipate receiving. You might be able to obtain a sense of this by speaking with current and previous drivers. In addition to analyzing the cents-per-mile (CPM), take into account any sign-on incentives, the prerequisites for receiving them, and the perks associated with the position.
3. Home time
OTR trucking usually requires being on the road for several weeks at a time. Nevertheless, different home time regulations exist. To gain a full picture, talk to both current and former drivers as well as company personnel about this. Instead of an OTR work, think about a regional or local position if you want to return home as much as feasible.
4. Vehicle Quality
It's a good idea to think about the quality of this vehicle because you'll be spending a lot of time behind the wheel of a semi-truck. Some businesses have modern fleets with cutting-edge machinery, while others just have older trucks. Look for elements that increase driver comfort and safety. Also consider the reputation of the truck brand itself, even if it’s second-hand. A used Peterbilt 579 truck being on the fleet is an asset, while a lesser marque might make you think twice.
5. Authenticity and company culture
Any trucking firm will be the subject of conflicting viewpoints, so it's crucial to try to hear both sides and get as much information as you can. Speak with current and former drivers and research the business online.
