Truck Driver
FAQ | Trucking Company
FAQ
1. What kind of benefits will I receive?
Benefits for truck drivers are among the most competitive
in all careers fields. All benefits will vary by company and position.
Most companies offer a variety of major Health, Dental, and Vision
Plans as well as Life Insurance. Some even offer 401K and stock options.
When you are contacted by the representative, be sure to ask about
the benefits that are being offered.
2. What is my starting pay?
Your pay will depend on your experience as well
as the amount of driving you will do. Truck drivers get paid per mile
so the more miles you are willing to drive the more money you will
be able to make. Ask your representative for more details.
3. How much time off will I have?
Due to the natural time constraints that drivers
face, many companies offer very flexible plans that create a great
balance of work and home life. Your assigned dispatcher will work
closely with you to determine your availability for time off.
4. Can I do local, OTR, or dedicated runs?
In some cases, after you are hired you will be able
to choose what works best for you. As positions and needs are constantly
changing, most drivers change positions a number of times as they
progress throughout their careers. Our recommendation for new drivers
is to be as flexible as possible when starting out in your careers.
You'll have plenty of opportunities later on to move into a dedicated
or local run once you become an experienced driver.
5. Do I have to own my own truck?
No, all the equipment you will need will be supplied
by the company you work with. If you do own your own truck, many transportation
companies offer owner-operator positions.
6. Do I have to have a special insurance?
No, you do not need any additional or special insurance.
All companies will provide the insurance coverage needed to operate
their equipment.
7. What kinds of licenses are required?
You will need to have a CDL “A” license
to drive and operate the trucks. If you do not have a CDL “A”
license, there are many companies willing to train you to receive
your license. In some cases, you can receive your CDL “A”
license in as little as three weeks!
8. Is there an age requirement?
You must be 21 years old or older to drive for
OTR positions. There is no maximum age limit to be a truck driver.
9. How long is the training?
Your training time will vary depending on
the driving experience you have, and the requirements of the company
you are applying for. If you have no experience, your training and
orientation will be three to four weeks. If you have more than two
years experience, your training period may be as little as three days.
Again, these are just examples and will vary for different truck driving
companies.
10. How long will I be gone?
This depends on the company you will be working
for and the type of driving you will be doing. Many companies offer
different plans that best fit your needs. Most truck drivers start
their careers as an OTR driver and them move into a dedicated or
local run later on. OTR drivers usually stay out for around 10-17
days and the have 2-3 days off. Dedicated runs will generally get
you home more frequently with the possibility of weekends.
11. What kind of a schedule will I have?
Your schedule will vary depending on the company
you will be working for. Each company has dispatchers that work
directly with the drivers and who are responsible for arranging
your driving schedule.
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