Truck Driving Jobs Are Not For Everyone But Trucking is a Great Career For the Right Person

Truck driving jobs are still plentiful despite the economy. People have in their minds a certain image of the average trucker. They think truckers are driving because they can't do anything else. This also implies that anyone could become a professional truck driver.

You may be reading this saying, "Well, anyone can get a truck driving job".

I beg to differ. Many, certainly can get their CDL license and then jump behind the wheel of a big truck but they will never become a professional truck driver. They won't be able to turn it into a successful career because they will be on the road disgusted.

Where are there bad truck drivers on the road that are not professionals? Too many drivers get on the big road without asking enough questions about becoming a trucker. They don't realize how taxing it is on family life until they become truckers out on the road away from home for weeks.

They didn't know that there were so many uncontrollable situations that easily turns stressful on a bad day. They didn't realize along with the travel and site seeing there was also breakdowns and unexpected detours. Some people become truckers before they realize they would have to deal with four wheelers who seems to care little about safety on the highway or just don't understand. Drivers also find that it is expensive on the road if they don't plan ahead for being on the road. Spend in the truck stops every day will eat up a paycheck, then of course what's the point.

These types of truck drivers usually make bad drivers and don't last long on the big road before they leave to do an easier job. This is one of the reasons that there is always a need for truck drivers. This is fine and desirable, we need drivers out here who love trucking. Anytime a person is not enjoying their job or if the job is causing problems for them they are better off doing something else.

Why would someone take a truck driving job?

People become professional driver for many reasons, some want to get paid as they travel but they understand that it is a job first so they are happy. Some choose trucking to escape a negative environment. Many truckers were introduced to trucking at a young age by a father or uncle or grandfather and knew from that very point in time they wanted to become a trucker driver. Some people become drivers simply to experience the adventure. Often a person will retire from another career such as military, or police officer and take a job as a driver. Some people change careers from an even more stressful jobs. I have met a Doctor, Lawyer and Accountant who switched to trucking. Some become truckers because of the potential to make good money with benefits.

It's truly unbelievable how diverse the background of drivers are and the reasons they decide to drive. Any reason is fine for the person who knows what he or she is getting into.

Ok, so what are some things that should be taken into consideration before taking a truck driving job?

The candidate for the open road should be self reliant and responsible. He must be disciplined and dependable. Drivers need to be on time to pick up and deliver their loads. How else will goods show up on shelves when they are supposed to?

The right person means that if family is involved they must also be of a certain type for having a trucking parent and or spouse over the road and be happy. It is not a decision that the potential driver should make alone. Before taking a truck driving job there should be serious discussion. Also, proper care must be taken to ensure that the stay at home spouse can handle all the business.

You can't guarantee that you will make it back by certain dates to handle things. Yes, this also mean you can't guarantee that you will make it home for some of your kids important events. Relax, you won't miss all of the events if you plan ahead and keep your dispatcher clued in but your definitely won't make them all.

How do you find the best truck driving job to suit you?

First remember the phrase, best truck driving job to suit you. There is no perfect job or trucking company. (Just like there is no perfect driver, yes me included!)

One of the best ways to get the information you need to determine if trucking is for you and choosing the right company is to visit your nearest truck stop. There are a dozen or more trucking magazines there that lists companies and their profiles. These are nice to get a general idea of who to contact and use for comparison of benefits, wages, traffic lanes (this is the area that a carrier commonly travels). You will see that a lot of companies only hire in certain areas. (This is good for both of you)

After identifying a selection of companies you like, get your pad call them and ask them questions like -

-How often will you get home?

-How many days will you get off when you do get home?

-Ask about benefits you need. (People have different insurance requirements, etc)

-Find out if they have a rider program if that is important to you. Not every company allows riders.

-Ask about the pay structure, including how much you can expect the first year. (Some of the figures you see in the magazines are based on achieving bonuses, raises, performance, etc. Also, they may not be the pay for the first year of trucking)

-See if they will allow you to carry a dog if you plan to have a dog. Not all companies will allow that or some will allow it and charge you.

After talking to the companies about the truck driving job, this will usually be the recruiter, go back to the truck stop and see if you can spot drivers for that company. (Of course, the smaller the company, the harder this will be to accomplish). Ask the drivers the same questions you asked the company to see how closely his answers match the recruiters.

This will give you a more accurate information about home time. How the company will handle certain situations, pay raises and other things that some companies may not be completely forthright about.

Cruising the internet may also help you narrow down choices of companies. Also keep in mind, there are many types of truck driving jobs, ranging from dump trucks to heavy hauling and hauling anything in between. While your on the internet and while talking to drivers

Be sure you consider what it means to be away from home 2 or 3 weeks at a time before deciding you want to become a trucker. I always recommend that a person pretend he or she is gone away from the home for 3 weeks and let the spouse handle everything in the home just as she would if you were gone.

This will help insure you didn't forget to cover something before you leave away from home on the big road.

Truck driving jobs are a solid career path with lots of potential for growth. You can buy a truck, buy several trucks (You must find top quality drivers if you do this) and lease on to a company or get your own authority. You could develop relationships and establish contacts while your driving so that you can build your trucking company with your own contracts.

There are many other arrangements and opportunities in trucking just remember, trucking is far more than a job, trucking is a lifestyle. The entire family lives a certain way because of a parent and/or spouse become a trucker.

Now, if I haven't scared you away, good luck if you so desire to take on one of the many truck driving jobs around the country. I hope to see you out here one day on the big road.

Hi my name is Hervy.
I have been driving for over 10 years in excess of 1,000,000 miles all across this great country.

If you need more in depth information about becoming a trucker or about the many different types of truck driving jobs feel free to visit my website Life as a trucker.

http://www.lifeasatrucker.com

Choosing a Truck Driving Job Part VIII - Talking With the Right People

In part one of our series, Choosing A Truck Driving Job Part I: Factors That Effect All Companies, we talked about different factors and considerations which will affect your experience at any company you go to work for.

In part 2, "Choosing A Truck Driving Job Part II: You and "Your People" Are The Most Important Factor", we talked about surrounding yourself with the right people, understanding factors that affect the freight you'll be getting, and things you can do to put yourself in the best position to succeed.

In part 3, "Choosing A Truck Driving Job Part III: How Your Family and Lifestyle Will Affect Your Choice", we considered your personality and lifestyle. Are you married? Do you have children? Do you love adventure? How long would you like to be away from home? These questions all figure into the process of choosing the right truck driving job.

In part 4, "Choosing A Truck Driving Job Part IV: Advantages of Large Trucking Companies", we of course talked about the advantages of working at a large trucking company.

In part 5, "Choosing A Truck Driving Job Part V: Comparing Large Trucking Companies To Small Ones", we compared working for companies of different sizes.

In part 6, "Choosing A Truck Driving Job Part VI: Dry Van and Refrigerated Companies", we talked a little bit about life on the road with a dry van or a refrigerated carrier.

In part 7, "Choosing A Truck Driving Job Part VII: Tankers and Flatbeds" we talked a little bit about life on the road with a flatbed or tanker carrier.

Now, in our final installment of this series, we'll talk about finding out some good information about any company you are interested in working for.

Getting The Right Information From The Right People

There are three main groups of people that you will be speaking with when you are considering working for a particular trucking company. They are:

The company's drivers
The company's mechanics
The company's recruiters

Knowing each group's agendas and viewpoints will help you ask the right questions, and interpret the quality of the responses you get.

Speaking With Company Drivers

One of the best ways, in my opinion, to really find out what life is like on the inside of a company you are considering applying to is to talk with some of the drivers and mechanics that work there. It's simple to do, it's incredibly effective, it makes perfect sense that a company's current drivers would know best, and you're going to be pleasantly surprised at the honesty you'll get!

Now please be aware of one thing, though....often times, a company will offer a referral bonus to any employee that refers a driver to the company. Often times it's quite significant...in the area of $500. So when you begin talking with a truck driver or a mechanic, make it perfectly clear that you are looking for an honest opinion, not a sales pitch. If you were looking for propaganda you could simply talk to their recruiting department. If they seem rather persistent about wanting to give you their name and truck number so that they can make money for recruiting you, simply thank them for their time and try to find someone else.

But most of the time you will get a brutally honest opinion. Truck drivers often tend to look out for other truck drivers. We all live the same kind of lives and face the same difficulties, so the last thing we should want to do is make life difficult for one another. I've been asked many hundreds of times about my experience working for a particular company. I have never once given out my truck number or name, nor have I ever received a nickel in referral money. Often times guys were so appreciative of my time and honesty that they asked me for the info, knowing I would get paid for the referral, and I politely declined. I told them that there was no way they could be sure I was being honest with them if I knew I was going to get paid to promote my company. I've gotten plenty of good advice for free over the years, so I just considered it good karma to give some back.

Make sure you talk to at least five different drivers from any particular trucking company. One or two could just be happy or unhappy with their company at that particular time based on some current events. But if you can get a pretty consistent group of opinions from several different drivers then you know you've probably gotten a good feel for the way drivers are being treated at that company. Ask them if they're getting the mileage they would like to be getting, whether they get home roughly when they are supposed to, and whether or not the trucks are well maintained. That's the three most important things a company must do well.

Speaking With Company Mechanics

Also, talk to one or two mechanics if you can get the opportunity. And if the company is located too far away to visit in person, don't be afraid to call the shop! Just tell whoever answers the phone that you're considering becoming a driver for the company and you'd like to know his opinion on their maintenance program. Ask them if the trucks are well taken care of and especially if their driver's requests for small things like new wiper blades, faulty mirror heaters, and blown fuses are handled promptly and without debate. If they aren't taking the time and care to look after the trucks then not only will you be losing a lot of money while unreliable trucks are sitting in the repair shop all the time, but you'll know that the company's management really isn't concerned with the comfort, safety, and happiness of its drivers.

A poor maintenance program is a huge red flag. Stay away from that company. You'll also be surprised at how often a trucking company's maintenance guys will be honest with you. The vast majority of mechanics take pride in what they do. They want to do things the right away because the safety and reliability of the equipment they work on is what determines their reputation. If they aren't being allowed to maintain the equipment properly, they'll more than likely let you know. It's their way of defending their reputation, and I don't blame them. I was a mechanic for Harley Davidson at one point and I felt the same way.

Speaking With Company Recruiters

A recruiter's job at any trucking company is to get you in the door, period. Once you've gotten hired at a company their job is done. Some of them will lie their brains out if it gets them paid...like a used car salesman. Tons of drivers I've talked to have been promised new trucks, a spot in certain divisions, big miles, and lots of home time, only to find out they've been lied to by the recruiter. What can you do about it if this happens to you? Nothing. Everyone will simply shrug their shoulders and say, "don't know what to tell ya".

When it comes to speaking with recruiters, there are some things to be aware of. First of all, be leery of guarantees from a company. The trucking industry is by nature cyclical and unpredictable. If they make promises like "you will be home every Friday by dinnertime", or "everybody gets home for the holidays", or "you will get a minimum of 2000 miles per week", then more than likely you're being lied to. There are no guarantees in this industry. Factors including weather, fleet size, economic fluctuations, vehicle breakdowns, gaining or losing customers, changes in computer software, changes in dispatching structure, changes in management, and a massive number of other variables all lead to a naturally unpredictable amount of miles and home time from week to week and year to year. You have to go with the flow and understand the dynamics of the industry.

There's one easy way to test a recruiter - tell them to put it in writing. If they promise you a new truck for instance, tell them to fax it in writing to you with their name on it so that you can bring it to orientation with you. If they'll do that, then you may actually get what they've promised, but I'm not guaranteeing that either. Recruiting can be a dirty process at times, so watch out for promises. Some of them will lie to you if they think they can get away with it.

There will be good weeks and bad weeks, good months and bad months, and even years can fluctuate quite a bit from one to the next. You have to take the good with the bad and try to get a good understanding of the big picture and how all of the different variables will affect your mileage and home time. If a company makes guarantees, they're often times lying. If they make statements like, "we try to get everyone home on weekends and holidays", and "you'll average about 2200 miles per week overall" then you can be pretty sure they're doing their best to be honest. Just be aware of the personal interests and agendas of the person you are speaking with. Remember, the drivers are the ones that are in demand, so keep in mind that you should be interviewing the company, not just the other way around. If your record is decent, then more than likely they'll be glad to have you. Just make sure that the job you choose seems like it will fit in with your goals, your personality, and your lifestyle.

About The Author
Brett R Aquila
15 Year Truck Driving Veteran
Owner - http://www.truckingtruth.com - the largest, most honest, and informative site on the web for those considering becoming a truck driver. We have tons of resources on our site, including:
Trucking Articles Trucking Driving Blogs From Many Different Authors Truck Driving Schools Free Truck Driving Schools Truck Driver's Forum Truck Driving Jobs Companies With CDL Training Advice, Tips, and Stories And Much More!
You can even make money with your own blog on TruckingTruth! We have several authors and are always looking for many more! So if you're considering becoming a truck driver, TruckingTruth is the place to go. You will not be disappointed!

Is the Ford F650 the Right Truck for You?

If you are looking to purchase a truck for your employees or business, you are looking for the best value for your needs. This is not always an easy task but with a little bit of research you can make an educated decision on what truck gives you the most bang for your buck. A popular choice is the Ford F650. Here are a few factors to consider when looking into purchasing a Ford F650 for your company or business.

Size

This commercial grade truck is no small beast. It is arguably the biggest and toughest truck out there and boasts of features that few other trucks can't even come close to offering. If you are often doing big jobs and need a truck that can withstand the harshest, most unforgiving loads and environments, the Ford F650 may be for you. If you are really just doing lighter work and not as often, you may be able to get by on a smaller model. Leave the Ford F650 for the biggest and hardest work.

Power

The Ford F650 comes with a 6.7L Cummins B series or 7.2L Caterpillar C7 diesel engine. This bad boy is made to haul the heaviest of the heavy loads. Each engine can change between eight to ten horse power torque settings. Again, if your loads are big enough to need that much power this truck is right for you, but if you find that your loads can be handled by a less powerful truck you may want to save some money and look for something with a smaller engine.

Because the Ford F650 is currently only offered through special order it is important to properly determine whether or not this is the truck you need. Though you may be drawn to its power and ruggedness, it also comes with a fairly shocking price tag. Keep in mind the cost and value. If you can do with a smaller truck, you are better off saving the money because as soon as you get behind the wheel of your truck the value depreciates. If you realize later that what you bought is overkill for the work you do, you will not be able to sell and see a full return on your investment.

By doing a bit of research on the topic and looking into the type of projects you are working on and will be working on in the future and determining what type of power and size is really necessary to get your work done and done well, you can ultimately save you and your company tons of money. If you do realize that this is the truck for you, you are looking at the crème de le crème of power and ability. With such a well reviewed piece of machinery and a name synonymous with the industry you can trust that you are getting a valuable tool that will pull you through the toughest and hardest jobs your business faces.

The Ford F650 offers Tons of Capacity, Brute Strength, Upfit Flexibility and comes in 3 cab configurations - Regular Cab, Super Cab or Crew Cab. Sherway Ford Trucks has been selling and servicing Ford commercial trucks and Fleet Trucks since 1970.

View the original article here

Finding the Right Haulage Services Company

Obtaining the correct heavy haualge company is a job to be done very carefully. The transporting of hard drives, houses, cranes and other vast goods is essential to you and the economy. There are tons of companies in business but not every freight transporter may be good for your business enterprise.

Expensive break downs and badly serviced equipment can lead to unnecessary expense and a lot of money at risk if delays transpire and are not dealt with professionally and quickly.

Some merchandise and goods are time delicate and mistakes simply cannot be tolerated. Merchandise being transported to a dock or train station to be moved abroad can not wait for a difficulty with transport for delivery; the problems have to be dealt with quickly.

This is an important consideration when considering a heavy haulage company. Does the company you're considering have the necessary experience, equipment, permits, driver skills and insurance? Can they deliver the goods on time and to a high enough standard?

These are all important things to consider when choosing the right heavy haulage company. Often it will take quite a bit of research and speaking to many companies, but it is important that you choose a suitable company.

Major haulage involves permits, routes may be difficult and require special thought and attention; all this can lead to an increase in costs and require a premium service.

Knowledgeable freight solutions should have the individuals, equipment, and the necessary permits in place to guarantee to get your merchandise delivered promptly.

Transferring freight is a job which needs to be carried out with many security features for the protection of the public, the individuals doing the job and the manufacturer. Targeted visitors can be disrupted with heavy haulage so times and routes have to be arranged.

Large fines may be levied if freight is transported with no correct paperwork.

You may want to be able to track your expensive shipment, this maybe something that you customer insists on. So make sure that your chosen heavy haulage company can provide you with the necessary service.

Seasoned freight services should understand what is expected leaving you to concentrate on your organization. A dependable producer should get your merchandise delivered promptly.

Let a home freight services company handle your haulage needs. No matter whether you are importing, exporting, or necessity large haulage for domestic transporting there is a freight solutions company out there to help you.

Smiths Mechanical specialise in heavy haulage throughout the UK. Boasting a specialist vehicle and trailer fleet providing both ridged and articulated combinations covering a wide range of weights and lengths. So if you are looking for a heavy haulage company look no further than Smiths Mechanical Heavy Haulage.

View the original article here

Important Things to Consider When Choosing the Right Heavy Haulage Company

Choosing the right heavy haulage and transportation is very important. It often takes quite a bit of research to make sure you select the right company for you. After all your load is precious to both you and your customer.

When doing a simple internet search for potential haulage companies it is easy to become overwhelmed by the vast number offering services throughout the UK and Europe. But how do you choose the right one? What should you be looking out for? And how can you be sure that they have the necessary equipment to handle your goods/loads? We have compiled a list of questions that you need to consider when choosing the right heavy haulage company, so read on and find the right company for you.

Do your goods require handling in certain way?

More often than not, you will find that your load/goods will need to be handled with great care, whether these goods are fragile computer components or a delivery of vehicles. Make sure that your selected haulage company can handle the load with the care that it deserves. This requires making sure that they have necessary equipment and driver training. Experience is also an important factor when considering the handling of goods. Does your heavy haulage company have the necessary experience in handling your types of goods?

Are your goods to be delivered in specific time scale?

Heavy haulage companies have different views when it comes to transportation logistics. Some can pick up goods en route to other pick-ups or drop-offs. Make sure that if you have an agreed time scale with your client that your haulage company can match this. Make sure they understand the route in full before receiving a quote for the transportation.

Does your chosen company have necessary insurance?

One of the single most important factors to think about when choosing the correct heavy haulage company is the load that they will be carrying. For example they maybe collecting a multimillion pound jet engine, if this is the case make sure that they are insured to carry goods to this value. If not then look elsewhere. There are many companies out there that would be able to do so and it is not worth the risk.

Lastly, when getting quotes for haulage companies make sure that you have at least 3 and that you give the same requirements. This way you can be sure that you are getting the best possible price for your transportation needs.

Smiths Mechanical specialise in heavy haulage throughout the UK. Boasting a specialist vehicle and trailer fleet providing both ridged and articulated combinations covering a wide range of weights and lengths. So if you are looking for a heavy haulage company look no further than Smiths Mechanical heavy haulage.

View the original article here

Utility Trucks - Shop For The Right Truck At The Best Prices

Utility trucks have become a valuable piece of equipment for many businesses. To be able to succeed in today's competitive marketplace, companies need to have the right tools. If you own a utility business, you should get your hands on a truck to make your company more efficient which subsequently results in increased profit from more work.

With the challenges increasing each day in the marketplace, you need the right equipment and tools to get ahead. To be able to surpass your competitor's, you have to provide exemplary service in diversified markets. This is only possible if you have the right equipment to rely on. A reliable utility truck is not only useful for your business but profitable as well. Whether you own a small scale business or a large company, you know that a truck can do wonders when it comes to increasing the profit. A utility truck can help you get and complete jobs you otherwise couldn't, even the seemingly hard ones.

The first thing you need is to determine the kind of truck your business requires. Utility trucks come in a variety of makes and models which include bucket trucks, boom trucks, grapple trucks, forestry trucks and digger derricks, to name a few. Different trucks are used for different purposes like the digger derricks are specifically created to dig placement holes for Telephone pole and bucket trucks elevate workers to a height that's hard to climb otherwise.

Once you have decided on the type of utility truck you need, you should start working on your budget as the price range can vary depending on the model. The decision for that also rests on the type of truck you require. Bucket Trucks are classified as small, medium and heavy duty. This correlates to their working height and chassis size. Larger trucks will inevitably cost more, but depending on the Year, Make, Model and Boom, pricing can be competitive. Ironically, Utility Trucks don't have a Blue Book Valuation like automobiles do. It is based on the overall condition of the truck, whether is has been refurbished and how old it is.

Since purchasing a utility truck is major investment for your company, it's recommended that you know exactly what type of bucket truck you need. Often times, companies may have a couple of bucket trucks so they can do different types of jobs. Depending on the work and the area, a medium duty bucket truck may be all you'll ever need. Take careful consideration before purchasing, because you might be better off with a larger truck. Know your business and know what you need!

Since heavy duty trucks are expensive, most people opt out of buying them. If you are on a tight budget, you can opt for a used truck as it's the most cost effective solution to owning the right tool for your business' success. The prices of used trucks are cut down by a huge margin and if you shop at the right place, you can get one that is superb in quality and functionality. Several used truck Dealers specialize in fully reconditioning used utility vehicles.

Doing some research prior to making a huge investment is vital, so do your homework, search the Internet for a company that offers the best used trucks. Whether you require digger, forestry or grapple truck, you should ensure that the company is offering the highest standard trucks that can be relied upon to carry out any task. While you are at it, you should go about comparing the prices offered so that you can strike the best deals.

This article has been written by an expert associated with I80 Equipment, a leading company that offers an exclusive range of used trucks ranging from Altec bucket trucks to Versa Lift digger derrick trucks at most competitive prices.

View the original article here

How to Choose the Right Moving Labor Company

Choosing the right moving labor company can be difficult to do. With the growing number of startup companies, many are proving to be unreliable or simply poor choices. Moving can be a stressful process and trying to find a quality moving company should make your life easier not more difficult. Here are some tips to help you choose the right moving labor company quickly and effectively.

1. Pay Attention to Legality Claims

There are a lot of moving labor companies that spend a lot of their advertising time talking about being "legal". Ironically, these are often the same companies that are skirting the line between ethic and unethical practices. If a company does not have any legal problems, they probably won't bring it up anyways. You don't see big name brands telling everyone that they are "legal", they just are. One of the growing concerns is identity theft and the easy way to protect yourself is by staying informed. The easiest way to do this is to do a quick online search with the Better Business Bureau to make sure that there the company has a solid history.

2. Understanding What "Movers Insurance" Really Is

There are some companies talk about providing movers insurance, which is an important issue to discuss. However, some will not tell you much more about what the insurance actually is or what it covers. The only insurance that you need to make that a moving company has is liability insurance and care and custody insurance. This will ensure that your belongs are protected at all times that they are being handled and transported. Additionally, in order to make sure that you covered, the moving company should be able to show you documentation related to their insurance.

3. Knowing What They Can and Cannot Do

Law and restrictions will vary from state to state in regards to what a moving company can and cannot do. For example, in some states moving companies cannot drive rental trucks, which means that either you will need to drive or they must bring their own truck. By knowing the laws of your state, you will be able to avoid penalties and fines that can end up costing your thousands of dollars. This can be a tricky ordeal to handle, but one of the easiest way to handle these issues is to ask the same questions to several perspective moving labor companies. If one says they can do it and two say that it is illegal, then it is safe bet that you should avoid the first one.

Choosing a moving labor company should make your life easier not more difficult. By following these 3 tips, will be well on your way to choosing a legitimate company that will be able to make your move a little less stressful. Remember to avoid companies that make legality claims, make sure that the movers have the proper insurance and can document it, and make sure to know what they are legally allowed to do and what they cannot do.

Get help loading and unloading your Pods unit or moving truck. Find professional moving labor near you.

Choosing a Truck Driving Job Part VIII - Talking With the Right People

In part one of our series, Choosing A Truck Driving Job Part I: Factors That Effect All Companies, we talked about different factors and considerations which will affect your experience at any company you go to work for.

In part 2, "Choosing A Truck Driving Job Part II: You and "Your People" Are The Most Important Factor", we talked about surrounding yourself with the right people, understanding factors that affect the freight you'll be getting, and things you can do to put yourself in the best position to succeed.

In part 3, "Choosing A Truck Driving Job Part III: How Your Family and Lifestyle Will Affect Your Choice", we considered your personality and lifestyle. Are you married? Do you have children? Do you love adventure? How long would you like to be away from home? These questions all figure into the process of choosing the right truck driving job.

In part 4, "Choosing A Truck Driving Job Part IV: Advantages of Large Trucking Companies", we of course talked about the advantages of working at a large trucking company.

In part 5, "Choosing A Truck Driving Job Part V: Comparing Large Trucking Companies To Small Ones", we compared working for companies of different sizes.

In part 6, "Choosing A Truck Driving Job Part VI: Dry Van and Refrigerated Companies", we talked a little bit about life on the road with a dry van or a refrigerated carrier.

In part 7, "Choosing A Truck Driving Job Part VII: Tankers and Flatbeds" we talked a little bit about life on the road with a flatbed or tanker carrier.

Now, in our final installment of this series, we'll talk about finding out some good information about any company you are interested in working for.

Getting The Right Information From The Right People

There are three main groups of people that you will be speaking with when you are considering working for a particular trucking company. They are:

The company's drivers
The company's mechanics
The company's recruiters

Knowing each group's agendas and viewpoints will help you ask the right questions, and interpret the quality of the responses you get.

Speaking With Company Drivers

One of the best ways, in my opinion, to really find out what life is like on the inside of a company you are considering applying to is to talk with some of the drivers and mechanics that work there. It's simple to do, it's incredibly effective, it makes perfect sense that a company's current drivers would know best, and you're going to be pleasantly surprised at the honesty you'll get!

Now please be aware of one thing, though....often times, a company will offer a referral bonus to any employee that refers a driver to the company. Often times it's quite significant...in the area of $500. So when you begin talking with a truck driver or a mechanic, make it perfectly clear that you are looking for an honest opinion, not a sales pitch. If you were looking for propaganda you could simply talk to their recruiting department. If they seem rather persistent about wanting to give you their name and truck number so that they can make money for recruiting you, simply thank them for their time and try to find someone else.

But most of the time you will get a brutally honest opinion. Truck drivers often tend to look out for other truck drivers. We all live the same kind of lives and face the same difficulties, so the last thing we should want to do is make life difficult for one another. I've been asked many hundreds of times about my experience working for a particular company. I have never once given out my truck number or name, nor have I ever received a nickel in referral money. Often times guys were so appreciative of my time and honesty that they asked me for the info, knowing I would get paid for the referral, and I politely declined. I told them that there was no way they could be sure I was being honest with them if I knew I was going to get paid to promote my company. I've gotten plenty of good advice for free over the years, so I just considered it good karma to give some back.

Make sure you talk to at least five different drivers from any particular trucking company. One or two could just be happy or unhappy with their company at that particular time based on some current events. But if you can get a pretty consistent group of opinions from several different drivers then you know you've probably gotten a good feel for the way drivers are being treated at that company. Ask them if they're getting the mileage they would like to be getting, whether they get home roughly when they are supposed to, and whether or not the trucks are well maintained. That's the three most important things a company must do well.

Speaking With Company Mechanics

Also, talk to one or two mechanics if you can get the opportunity. And if the company is located too far away to visit in person, don't be afraid to call the shop! Just tell whoever answers the phone that you're considering becoming a driver for the company and you'd like to know his opinion on their maintenance program. Ask them if the trucks are well taken care of and especially if their driver's requests for small things like new wiper blades, faulty mirror heaters, and blown fuses are handled promptly and without debate. If they aren't taking the time and care to look after the trucks then not only will you be losing a lot of money while unreliable trucks are sitting in the repair shop all the time, but you'll know that the company's management really isn't concerned with the comfort, safety, and happiness of its drivers.

A poor maintenance program is a huge red flag. Stay away from that company. You'll also be surprised at how often a trucking company's maintenance guys will be honest with you. The vast majority of mechanics take pride in what they do. They want to do things the right away because the safety and reliability of the equipment they work on is what determines their reputation. If they aren't being allowed to maintain the equipment properly, they'll more than likely let you know. It's their way of defending their reputation, and I don't blame them. I was a mechanic for Harley Davidson at one point and I felt the same way.

Speaking With Company Recruiters

A recruiter's job at any trucking company is to get you in the door, period. Once you've gotten hired at a company their job is done. Some of them will lie their brains out if it gets them paid...like a used car salesman. Tons of drivers I've talked to have been promised new trucks, a spot in certain divisions, big miles, and lots of home time, only to find out they've been lied to by the recruiter. What can you do about it if this happens to you? Nothing. Everyone will simply shrug their shoulders and say, "don't know what to tell ya".

When it comes to speaking with recruiters, there are some things to be aware of. First of all, be leery of guarantees from a company. The trucking industry is by nature cyclical and unpredictable. If they make promises like "you will be home every Friday by dinnertime", or "everybody gets home for the holidays", or "you will get a minimum of 2000 miles per week", then more than likely you're being lied to. There are no guarantees in this industry. Factors including weather, fleet size, economic fluctuations, vehicle breakdowns, gaining or losing customers, changes in computer software, changes in dispatching structure, changes in management, and a massive number of other variables all lead to a naturally unpredictable amount of miles and home time from week to week and year to year. You have to go with the flow and understand the dynamics of the industry.

There's one easy way to test a recruiter - tell them to put it in writing. If they promise you a new truck for instance, tell them to fax it in writing to you with their name on it so that you can bring it to orientation with you. If they'll do that, then you may actually get what they've promised, but I'm not guaranteeing that either. Recruiting can be a dirty process at times, so watch out for promises. Some of them will lie to you if they think they can get away with it.

There will be good weeks and bad weeks, good months and bad months, and even years can fluctuate quite a bit from one to the next. You have to take the good with the bad and try to get a good understanding of the big picture and how all of the different variables will affect your mileage and home time. If a company makes guarantees, they're often times lying. If they make statements like, "we try to get everyone home on weekends and holidays", and "you'll average about 2200 miles per week overall" then you can be pretty sure they're doing their best to be honest. Just be aware of the personal interests and agendas of the person you are speaking with. Remember, the drivers are the ones that are in demand, so keep in mind that you should be interviewing the company, not just the other way around. If your record is decent, then more than likely they'll be glad to have you. Just make sure that the job you choose seems like it will fit in with your goals, your personality, and your lifestyle.

About The Author
Brett R Aquila
15 Year Truck Driving Veteran
Owner - http://www.truckingtruth.com - the largest, most honest, and informative site on the web for those considering becoming a truck driver. We have tons of resources on our site, including:
Trucking Articles Trucking Driving Blogs From Many Different Authors Truck Driving Schools Free Truck Driving Schools Truck Driver's Forum Truck Driving Jobs Companies With CDL Training Advice, Tips, and Stories And Much More!
You can even make money with your own blog on TruckingTruth! We have several authors and are always looking for many more! So if you're considering becoming a truck driver, TruckingTruth is the place to go. You will not be disappointed!

IS TRUCKING RIGHT FOR YOU? - Aug 17,2008

Sorry, I could not read the content fromt this page.Sorry, I could not read the content fromt this page.

View the original article here