Question:
Im about to go get my CDL and start with a company, still trying to decide which to go with, and one of the biggest complaints I hear are from drivers who say they are always sitting. Thats one thing id like to try and avoid if possible. So, what are some companies, that offer training for newbies, that are known for "keeping you moving"? I figured some of the larger ones would have enough freight to keep a newby on the road, so what companies do you suggest that typically dont keep their guys sitting long? thanks

Answer:
Click here to visit the website dedicated to Schneider drviers. There are several boards you can look at and post questions to. Schneider has a pretty decent rep in the industry.
Swift, JB Hunt, CR England, Werner - all are big companies and they'll all keep you busy if you want to run. However, you should look at more than just whether or not a company will keep you going. Length of haul may, or may not, be a factor for you. However, if your dispatcher keeps you busy with short runs all the time, you won't be getting any real miles, which is where you make your money. The biggest thing to look for is how well you fit in with the company and how good a company fits in to what you want as far as benefits, time at home, mileage pay, etc. Look at them all and then make your decision. Good luck.
[This message was edited by BDGFN on November 10, 2003 at 17:28.]

Answer:
However, if your dispatcher keeps you busy with short runs all the time, you won't be getting any real miles, which is where you make your money
Some companies pay more for short runs. Sometimes a lot more, like up to 20 cpm more or a flat bonus of like $50 or $75 more for runs under so many miles. In these cases you can make some real good money doing the short haul bit. I have worked for companies where I may not have gotten 1700 miles in a week, but by the time you added in the short haul pay, a little detention pay, and a few extra stop pays my check was equivelant to over 3000 miles for the week.
When talking to a company be sure to inquire about all accessorial pay (short haul, extra stop, detention, etc.)
Also be careful when talking about average length of haul. Some companies advertise a long avg length of haul but are heavy on teams and they get the long runs while solo drivers get much shorter runs. Be sure to ask specifcally for the avg length of haul for the fleet you are applying for, or find out if the numbers they provide you are merely a company average and what percentage of teams they run.
I will always be a mutter trucker at heart.
Answer:
In some cases, how many miles you get can be decided by the type of operation they run. But a lot has to do with how well you and your driver manager (dispatcher) get along. Keep a good raport with them and they will most likely give you all the miles you can run. Be a troublemaker and they will sometimes "starve you out" by giving you crap runs and lots of layovers.

Answer:
I am a newbie and am working for TransAm. My average run since I started is 956 mi. They will keep you busy as long as you deliver on time. ( A big point when you haul meat !)

Answer:
I would have to agree with Schneider. Most that go there have few complaints. but there are always some. I also understand Roehl and Millis will keep you busy. I would stay away from companies like CR England and Prime, also Stevens. They will keep you very busy. they just wont pay you much.
BDGFN had some good advice also.
Good luck to you.
"There is just something about fresh winter snow and a river. The day is bright even if it is cloudy, the water is friendly even if it is cold and the fish are there even if they are not biting."
Member: Happy Dweller Society
Team Driver Division

Answer:
you almost get the pick of the litter.
Go with the best company for your personal needs. Check into things like benefits, and how much they cost. How many raises will you get?
Some companies will have you at .29cpm after a year, while other won't have you there for a few years.
Don't be fooled by shiney trucks. Sure, you could go drive a long nose pete for Wil-Trand, and make .24cpm.......forever!