Are you interested in pursuing a career as a trucker? Are you unsure about how to choose the best trucking company for a new driver? Look no further.
In this article, first we’ll explore what exactly trucking company drivers do. Then we’ll provide tips for finding the top trucking companies for new drivers, covering pay rates, benefits, and training programs. We also explain how to apply for trucking company jobs, including information on CDL requirements and job search resources.
After reading this guide, you’ll know how to find the best trucking company for you as a new driver. And when you’re finished, check out the other articles in our ‘Insights and tips for new drivers’ series:
- What to expect as a new trucking company driver
- How to choose the best trucking company for new drivers
- Flatbed trucking insights for new drivers
- Pros and cons of OTR trucking jobs for new drivers
What do company drivers do?
Company truck drivers are generally employed to operate company vehicles for the purposes of transporting cargo to different locations. Specific responsibilities may vary depending on the industry and company needs, but some common tasks include:
- Operating company vehicles in a safe, efficient, and compliant manner
- Conducting pre-trip and post-trip vehicle inspections
- Maintaining accurate records of trips, mileage, and fuel usage
- Reporting any accidents, incidents, or vehicle maintenance issues to the company
- Communicating with dispatchers, supervisors, and customers as needed
- Keeping the vehicle clean and well-maintained
- Adhering to company policies and procedures while on the job
How to choose the best trucking company for new drivers
Here are some top tips to help an inexperienced driver choose the best trucking employer:
- Research the company’s reputation: Seek out online company reviews and check their rating on websites like the Better Business Bureau. Ask other drivers in the industry about their experience with the company.
- Benefits and pay: Look for a company that offers competitive pay and benefits. Compare different companies’ salaries, health insurance, retirement plans, and other employee perks.
- Training and support: Explore whether prospective employers provide comprehensive training and ongoing support. Some companies have established training programs to help drivers enhance their skills.
- Safety and compliance: Research safety records on the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration portal. You’ll want an employer that takes safety seriously and adheres to all relevant compliance regulations.
- Equipment and maintenance: Consider companies with rigorous fleet maintenance standards, and that invest in newer, more reliable equipment.
- Culture and work environment: Find a workplace where you feel like you can thrive. Take culture, management style, and work-life balance into account.
Remember that finding one of the top paying trucking companies for new drivers can take time. In the meantime, the best trucking company to start out with is one that supports and values you as a driver.
How to become a truck driver
Here are some steps you can take to get started in your new company trucking career.
Find trucking companies hiring new drivers
If you’re just starting out in the trucking industry, you’re probably wondering who hires new CDL drivers. One way to find trucking companies that are hiring drivers is to complete the FreightWaves Ratings Truck Driving Jobs form to get matched with some of the best truck driving companies.
Another option is to go it alone by looking up “truck driving jobs no experience,” “best truck companies for new drivers,” or “best trucking jobs for new drivers” online. Even the highest paid CDL jobs from good trucking companies for new drivers can be found with enough research.
You can also check with local staffing agencies that specialize in entry level trucking companies to find the highest paying trucking jobs and the best CDL jobs for new drivers.
Check job requirements
Review the truck driver requirements listed in the job postings carefully to ensure you meet the minimum qualifications.
Most trucking companies will require a driver’s license, a clean motor vehicle record, and a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL).
How hard is it to get a CDL license? Getting a CDL is not particularly easy, but the difficulty level varies depending on the state and type of CDL you need. Generally, you have to pass a written test, a pre-trip inspection, and a driving skills test. Most truck driving schools offer four- to six-week courses.
The best paying truck driving jobs may also require that a driver meet certain medical and physical requirements. Some factors that can make getting a CDL more challenging include a history of traffic violations or accidents, a lack of experience with heavy vehicles, and language barriers. Nevertheless, with proper training and preparation, many people are able to obtain a CDL successfully.
Submit your application
Once you’ve found good truck driving companies to work for, visit their company career webpages and complete their online job application forms. You will likely have to upload a resume and answer a few questions.
Attend the interview
The company will contact you if your application is shortlisted, and invite you to attend an interview and skills assessment. Make sure to prepare for the interview by researching the company and brushing up on your knowledge of the trucking industry.
Complete training
If offered a position from one of the best beginner trucking companies, you’ll be expected to complete a training program before becoming a truck driver. On-the-job training for new drivers will likely cover company policies and procedures, load handling, safety guidelines, and trip planning. Once the training is complete, you will be assigned a truck and a shift schedule.
So, how long does it take to become a truck driver? In general, it can take several weeks to several months.
FAQ
Truck drivers who operate heavy-duty vehicles such as tractor-trailers, tankers, and flatbeds are in high demand and find the top paid truck driver jobs. Additionally, drivers who have certifications or experience in specialized fields such as hazardous materials (hazmat), oversized loads, and refrigerated (reefer) trailers are also in demand for the best truck driver jobs.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for different types of truck drivers was $45,260 as of May 2019. However, salaries vary depending on factors such as experience, type of cargo, and geographical location. Some truckers may also be paid by the mile, while others may earn hourly wages. Additionally, some truckers are owner-operators, which means they own and operate their own trucks and are responsible for their own expenses and income.
How much a truck driver makes varies. On average, truck drivers may earn between $0.40 to $0.60 for an average truck driver pay per mile. Some may also receive other benefits, such as bonuses for safe driving, mileage incentives, insurance coverage, and retirement plans.
The job market and demand for truck drivers may vary depending on location, industry, and overall economic conditions. In general, there is a high demand for qualified truck drivers. Factors such as experience, driving record, types of truck and qualifications can also play a role in the hiring process of the best truck company for new drivers.
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