Truck driving can be a rewarding career path for many, with a level of freedom unrivaled by most. When I began driving I commonly heard, “Travel on your employer’s dime.” While not entirely true, I have certainly traveled to many locations that I otherwise wouldn’t have
When searching for the ideal employer you have, literally, thousands upon thousands of options. From small operations that operate a couple of trucks to the megacarriers that flood the nation with freight haulers, there are a few aspects of a company that could help you with your decision. Do not be afraid to ask questions and do some research, it could be the difference between loving and loathing your job.
Consider the type of freight you are looking to haul. Most newer drivers stick with dry vans which are generally easier to haul and have many openings for newer drivers. Other types of freight, such as oversized or hazardous materials require permits and endorsements making it more difficult for new drivers to enter the market fresh out of training.
When you know what you want to haul, consider the pay and benefits. While the cents-per-mile rate may seem attractive, consider the total number of expected miles per week since this can significantly influence your total paycheck. For many, home time is more important than big money. Don’t be afraid to ask about the anticipated home time if you plan to go OTR. It may be a good idea to seek driving opportunities on a local or regional basis to make the most of your home time. In addition to great pay and home time, benefits can include health care, dental care, vision care, and medications. Do not overlook the value of caring for your physical and mental well-being. Ask about the health benefits offered by potential employers.
Of course, drivers want to look good on the highway, but more important is the quality of the equipment. As the saying goes, chrome will not get you home. Many fleets put great emphasis on their equipment to ensure drivers are happy and the trucks are reliable. This will help you keep the miles rolling and get you home on time. With these thoughts in mind, let’s take a look at some great companies to work for.
Estes Express Lines: Operating out of Richmond, VA, for over 90 years, this is the largest privately-owned trucking company in North America serving all 50 states. Drivers speak positively about their pay, quality of equipment, and employee benefits. Individuals looking to enter the trucking industry can potentially take advantage of paid CDL training and licensing at no cost.
UPS: One of the world’s largest shipping companies with an extensive fleet of drivers necessary to keep freight moving. While offering quality equipment and consistent work, UPS also provides seasonal work for drivers looking to have significant amounts of time off during the year. Though shifts can be long, as they are with most companies, UPS provides no-cost, full-coverage benefits to both their full and part-time employees.
Roehl Transport: Higher pay and increased home time. Couple that with driver safety and you’ll find Roehl Transport. They offer the full experience from CDL training to owner-operator opportunities through a company that is owned by a driver who understands the industry. The driver benefits package includes health, dental, and vision insurance, 401(k), and profit sharing.
Bison Transport USA: After merging with Britton Transport, H.O. Wolding became Bison Transport USA. While growing, it maintains its values as a small-town company. Bison is known for its safety record and low turnover rate; drivers who come to Bison stay with Bison. They offer
the latest in technology in their vast, modern fleet of equipment. Employee benefits include health, dental, and vision insurance, excellent home time, and a 401(k).
Nussbaum Transportation: The company founded in 1945 has grown to more than 440 trucks. Based in Hudson, IL, they pride themselves on their core values: honesty, integrity, character, excellence, and benevolence. As an employee-owned company, 35% of its stock is dedicated to employees for profit sharing, making the success of the company the success of the employees.
Old Dominion Freight: Founded nearly 90 years ago, Old Dominion Freight boasts 41,000 tractors and trailers, 20,000 employees, and 250 service centers. More than your run-of-the-mill carrier, Old Dominion is the official freight carrier for Major League Baseball. Salaries are above average while still offering paid CDL, allowing opportunities for new drivers to get into trucking. Old Dominion earned the MASTIO Quality Award: No. 1 National LTL Carrier for the 13th Consecutive Year in 2022, C.H. Robinson Carrier of the Year 2022, and the 2022 Logistics Management Quest for Quality Award. A full list of their awards is available on their website.
We have only scratched the surface of great company options on the market today. Be sure to take the time to weigh the benefits of each company when choosing the right company for you. Working for the right company can significantly improve your experience as a company driver.
