Once you pass the CDL exam, you’ll be ready to sign with a company and start a new chapter in your career. However, not every company is the same. While each company provides standard benefits, they’ll also offer different incentives for truck drivers to work with them.
Questions You Should Ask Before Signing With a Trucking Company
1. What’s the Company’s Safety Record?
You’ll want to find a company that’s both safe and protects its truckers. Find out how many of their semis are modern. Ask how many miles they have on them.
Companies with modern rigs have updated technology and improved comfort. They have live GPS tracking and internet-connected dash cams. These additions help truck drivers make their deliveries on schedule and provide them with a defense if an accident occurs.
2. How Are the Salary & Benefits?
Ask about the company’s salary and pay periods so that you can manage your money between checks. Electronic payment options also streamline the process, but programs come with fees.
Trucking companies offer medical benefits and 401k programs, but there are questions to be asked about them.
Find out which the company offers medical plans and what the premiums are. If you have a family, ask how much it will cost to add them to your plan.
Most companies offer 401ks, which will help you as you move into retirement. However, different companies will have different policies. Ask if the company matches your contributions and how long it will take for you to become fully vested.
3. What Are the Best Routes?
Most new drivers start as long-distance drivers. It provides you with experience and the opportunity to see more of this beautiful country. However, the American Trucking Associations (ATA) notes that some companies have changed that policy. Some offer better routes that leave you closer to home to entice new drivers and stop the trucking shortage, as reported on by Bloomberg.com.
Ask about what routes the company travels along. Some routes will net you more money, while others allow you to be home more often.
4. Does the Company Offer Opportunities for Advancement?
The recruiter you’re interviewing was probably a driver themselves before taking on this new role. If you’re ready to move beyond the steering wheel and the road ahead, a good company will have options. Many of those in management positions, including fleet managers, were drivers before they were supervisors.
Being a truck driver provides you with insights on the industry that can help you if you desire to climb up the chain.
Before embarking on an exciting new career as a truck driver, you need to pass the CDL exam. Our accredited program will give you the classroom and on-the-road experience you’ll need to ace it. Reach out to us at (330) 239-2229.
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