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Starting a career in the trucking industry can be both exciting and challenging. It’s not just about driving a big rig, but also about navigating the complexities of logistics, regulations, and safety standards. That’s why choosing the right trucking company for your first job is crucial. You want a company that offers good training, fair pay, decent benefits, and a supportive culture. In this article, we’ll review some of the best starter trucking companies that meet these criteria.
What Makes a Good Starter Trucking Company?
Before we dive into our list of recommended companies, let’s clarify what we mean by a “good” starter trucking company. Here are some factors to consider:
- Training: Does the company provide comprehensive training for new drivers, including classroom instruction, behind-the-wheel practice, and mentorship?
- Pay: Does the company offer competitive pay rates, bonuses, and benefits, such as health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off?
- Equipment: Does the company maintain a fleet of well-maintained trucks, trailers, and other equipment, and provide roadside assistance?
- Culture: Does the company have a positive and supportive work environment, with opportunities for advancement, recognition, and feedback?
- Routes: Does the company offer a variety of routes and schedules, and allow drivers to choose their own loads and destinations?
Of course, different drivers may prioritize these factors differently, depending on their personal preferences and goals. That’s why we’ll present a range of companies that excel in different areas. Let’s get started!
1. Schneider National
Schneider National is one of the largest and most respected trucking companies in the US, with over 85 years of experience. It offers a variety of services, including dry van, intermodal, tanker, and dedicated hauling, and operates in all 48 states. Schneider National also has a strong focus on safety and sustainability, and has won numerous awards for its performance.
For new drivers, Schneider National provides a comprehensive training program that covers all aspects of driving, safety, and customer service. The program includes classroom instruction, hands-on practice, and a dedicated mentor who will guide you through your first year. You can also earn up to $7,000 in tuition reimbursement if you attend an approved driving school.
In terms of pay, Schneider National offers a competitive salary and benefits package, with opportunities for bonuses and pay increases based on performance. You can also choose from several different routes and schedules, depending on your preferences.
2. Roehl Transport
Roehl Transport is a family-owned trucking company that has been in business since 1962. It specializes in flatbed, refrigerated, and dry van hauling, and operates in the Midwest, South, and Northeast regions. Roehl Transport is known for its high standards of safety, quality, and customer service, and has won multiple awards for its performance.
For new drivers, Roehl Transport offers a paid CDL training program that lasts 4-6 weeks and includes classroom instruction, driving practice, and mentoring. You can also earn up to $7,000 in tuition reimbursement if you attend an approved driving school. Roehl Transport has a low student-to-instructor ratio, which means you’ll get personalized attention and feedback.
In terms of pay, Roehl Transport offers a competitive starting salary and benefits package, with opportunities for bonuses and pay increases based on performance. You can also choose from several different routes and schedules, depending on your preferences.
3. Prime Inc.
Prime Inc. is a leading trucking company that offers a wide range of services, including refrigerated, flatbed, tanker, and intermodal hauling. It operates in all 48 states and has a strong focus on technology, safety, and innovation. Prime Inc. also has a unique culture that emphasizes teamwork, communication, and respect.
For new drivers, Prime Inc. offers a paid CDL training program that lasts 3-4 weeks and includes classroom instruction, driving practice, and mentoring. You can also earn up to $6,000 in tuition reimbursement if you attend an approved driving school. Prime Inc. has a modern fleet of trucks and trailers, and provides 24/7 roadside assistance.
In terms of pay, Prime Inc. offers a competitive starting salary and benefits package, with opportunities for bonuses and pay increases based on performance. You can also choose from several different routes and schedules, depending on your preferences. Prime Inc. also has a lease program that allows drivers to become owner-operators.
4. Swift Transportation
Swift Transportation is one of the largest trucking companies in the US, with over 50 years of experience. It offers a variety of services, including dry van, flatbed, and refrigerated hauling, and operates in all 48 states and Mexico. Swift Transportation is known for its innovative technology, driver-friendly policies, and commitment to sustainability.
For new drivers, Swift Transportation offers a paid CDL training program that lasts 3-4 weeks and includes classroom instruction, driving practice, and mentoring. You can also earn up to $5,000 in tuition reimbursement if you attend an approved driving school. Swift Transportation has a large fleet of trucks and trailers, and provides 24/7 roadside assistance.
In terms of pay, Swift Transportation offers a competitive starting salary and benefits package, with opportunities for bonuses and pay increases based on performance. You can also choose from several different routes and schedules, depending on your preferences. Swift Transportation also has a lease program that allows drivers to become owner-operators.
5. CRST International
CRST International is a diversified transportation company that offers a range of services, including dedicated, expedited, and intermodal hauling. It operates in all 48 states and Canada and has over 60 years of experience. CRST International is committed to safety, sustainability, and innovation, and has won multiple awards for its performance.
For new drivers, CRST International offers a paid CDL training program that lasts 4 weeks and includes classroom instruction, driving practice, and mentoring. You can also earn up to $8,000 in tuition reimbursement if you attend an approved driving school. CRST International has a large fleet of trucks and trailers, and provides 24/7 roadside assistance.
In terms of pay, CRST International offers a competitive starting salary and benefits package, with opportunities for bonuses and pay increases based on performance. You can also choose from several different routes and schedules, depending on your preferences.
Conclusion
Choosing the best starter trucking company is not an easy task, but it’s a critical one for your career success. We hope this article has provided you with some helpful insights and recommendations. Remember to evaluate each company based on your own priorities and goals, and don’t hesitate to ask questions and seek advice from experienced drivers. Good luck on your journey!