What are the opions in my situation?
Posted by Commercial-War1494@reddit | Truckers | View on Reddit | 12 comments
So, long story short, I hold a Class A CDL with HazMat, Tanker, Double/Triple, Passenger, and School bus. I didn't pay anything for it, and got it only because it was offered through my employer as a perk of working there. I have no Class A driving experience beyond the two weeks I spent on my license. I drove a motor coach part-time for a bit, so I'm not completely new. Added on Tanker, HazMat, and Double/Triple on my own dime just to have them, and I tested in a 10-speed, so I have no restrictions other than the one for my passenger endorsement in class B vehicles only. Left school to finish my bachelor's degree and am looking for some work. I do not want to go out OTR. Because of this, I've been looking into some of the fuel carriers (Florida Rock and Tank and KAG) as well as possibly working in food service or beverage for a bit until I can work my way into an LTL or local gig.
haydukelives56@reddit
KAG wasn’t really hiring in the last few months, even with 7+ years of driving experience. start applying everywhere and anywhere that are hiring and maybe you’ll get a lucky strike, but without much experience, a local route is going to be unlikely. it’s unfortunate but that’s the current reality. food service can be brutal, but they might give you a shot if you’re willing to step up to the difficulty. sounds like you’re in florida somewhere, i know that sysco in plant city is hiring route drivers right now and that would be local!
Commercial-War1494@reddit (OP)
Georgia. Already had an interview and offer with Ben E Keith. They’d start me on the route and then let me move into a shuttle driver position since I have Doubles and triples. That wouldn’t be bad
haydukelives56@reddit
there you go, congrats on finding a gig quick! always a good call to have all your endorsements, they open a lot of opportunities quickly
Commercial-War1494@reddit (OP)
Their terminal is 5 minutes from my house, I just walked in there this afternoon with my resume
haydukelives56@reddit
haha hell on earth, that’s rare nowadays. but it’s nice you’re so close and they actually have a terminal with staff you can talk to
Trappin4DaSport@reddit
florida rock and tank is ok for the experience but its below average pay wise and your gonna get a shit schedule as a new driver
Fuelhauler123@reddit
If eagle transport is in your area they hire with no experience.
802trucker@reddit
Florida Rock & Tank is load pay isn’t it? Fuel hauling is an easy gig but not worth it running around for $60 per load
Wheres_Jay@reddit
It is, but getting a spot and getting carded opens a lot of doors.
B-buckleboots@reddit
I would just start putting applications in on indeed for your area. Apply on indeed AND on the company website. If it really seems like a good gig, wait a few days then call to follow up. Thats as good a place as any to start. As you gain more experience you'll learn better where the money is and what kind of work you like do.
Throwdown_name@reddit
Look for Class B jobs like cement truck or sanitation. KAG won’t hire you without experience. Might also look at US foods or local beverage distributors for local route gigs.
g0d_help_me@reddit
If you absolutely do not want to go over the road, you will be somewhat limited for a little while. Most fuel/hazmat hauler want a year or two of experience, sometimes more. Without knowing ing what area/city you are in, food service will likely be your best bet for no experience. The pay is pretty good, but you work your ass off. Do that for a bit and then other job opportunities start opening up. If there is a Ltl company hub in your area, you may be able to get on there as a fill-in driver and work the dock when no one needs their route covered, at least long enough to get a route of your own.