Pros & Cons of OTR Trucking

Are you a rookie truck driver starting out in the field and wondering which route type best fits your lifestyle and needs? Or are you a seasoned trucker looking to switch it up and earn a little higher on average pay as an OTR driver? 

 

No matter your experience level or current position, there are many reasons to pursue a career as an over-the-road or OTR truck driver. However, like any job, it’s important to consider both the advantages and challenges before deciding if it’s the right path for you.  

 

In this article you will find out what being an OTR trucker really entails, and the pros and cons of this profession.  

 

What does an OTR trucker do? 

Every driver entering the trucking industry has to first decide if they would rather drive locally, regionally, or over-the-road (OTR).  

 

OTR trucking, also called long haul, involves transporting freight across state lines, and sometimes even national borders. OTR drivers handle various cargo types, including vehicles, consumer goods, machinery, construction materials, and food, and they can drive over hundreds of miles every day.  

 

Owner Operators hauling OTR are typically paid by the load, a percentage of the revenue of the load, or a set amount of miles driven. Company drivers who choose to drive OTR are often paid by the mile, and compensation rates depend on carrier location, experience level, and freight type. However, since most OTR drivers complete more than 400 miles a day, this can really start to add up.  

 

OTR drivers also have the freedom to decide whether to drive as a team or solo, although all drivers must comply with the FMCSA regulations on required driving breaks. Some carriers even allow drivers to bring along family members or furry friends to help avoid loneliness on the road.  

 

Being behind the wheel for days, weeks, and even months at a time also means that OTR truckers must take advantage of the numerous truck stops across the nation. Many trucks include a sleeper cab, while showers, meals, and break time are often found at truck stops deisgned with lots of convenience items and services to accommodate the unique needs of truckers, such as Iowa 80 

 

OTR driving is often seen as a life of freedom, but there are still many factors to consider before trying it out for the first time. 

 

What are the advantages? 

The potential for higher pay. For many truckers, OTR driving stands out because of the opportunity to receive higher pay on average than other types of trucking due to longer routes and higher mileage covered. OTR truckers also often receive additional benefits and safety incentives that can increase their earning potential.  

 

A chance to see the country. Long haul trucking enables drivers to explore different cities, states, and diverse landscapes. The open road offers a sense of freedom and adventure, and there’s no better way to explore than when you’re getting paid to do so.  

 

Independence and flexibility. OTR truckers have more independence when creating and managing their daily schedules and routes, especially in comparison to local drivers. The limited supervision and increased autonomy are major benefits for drivers who prefer to set their own rules.  

 

Job security. While last mile delivery and other local trucking jobs have been increasing in demand recently, there will always be a steady need for long haul transportation. With the ongoing driver shortage, experienced drivers will always be in demand.  

 

Are there any challenges? 

Long stretches away from home. The most difficult part of OTR trucking is being on the road and away from your loved ones for long periods of time. This means it’s important to find ways to remain connected, such as through video calls, virtual game nights, and planning ahead for time at home.  

 

Long hours and loneliness. Spending long shifts on the road far from home can also bring feelings of loneliness and even depression. There are many strategies to combat mental health struggles, but it is important to be aware of the potential impact of the lack of social interaction and time away from loved ones. 

 

No set schedule. While the flexibility of OTR trucking can be a perk, it can also be stressful to have an unpredictable routine. Depending on weather, traffic, and shipper requirements, OTR truckers often have to drive overnight or make last minute changes to a planned route.   

 

Health and safety. Sitting for extended periods can cause health issues like obesity, back pain, and circulatory problems, which can be worsened when combined with an irregular sleep schedule. It is key for OTR truckers to take frequent breaks to get out and walk around, even if just for five minutes. Drivers should also focus on finding nutrient-rich, protein-packed meals, which can be found at truck stops and gas stations such as Love’s or Buc-ee’s.  

 

Over-the-road trucking is a popular choice for drivers across the nation, but it’s important to consider both the pros and cons before deciding this is the right fit for you. If you’re looking for a direct comparison between pickup and delivery drivers and OTR, also called long-haul, read our article here 

 

For more information industry advice, safety tips, and career opportunities for truck drivers, be sure to check out our Truck Driver Blog or follow us on social media 

Team driving: Why more truck drivers are choosing this option

Have you ever felt lonely on the road? 

 

Truck drivers face many challenges throughout their career, but few are as persistent as the feeling of loneliness that comes with being far from home for hours on end. Some might simply view trucking as a solitary profession, but this doesn’t have to always be true. 

 

What if there was a way to drive with a companion while also earning more money and increasing your chance of receiving priority loads?  

 

For many truckers, the solution is team driving. Keep reading to learn the benefits of being a team driver, as well as what other truckers have had to say about how they earn more and better enjoy driving when they’re part of a team.  

 

What is team driving? 

Simply put, team driving is when two (or more!) professional drivers ride together in the same truck and share driving duties while transporting freight. Most carriers allow team driving, and many even encourage it, due to the more efficient mileage covered and turnaround allowed by alternating drivers.  

 

Team driving is an especially popular option for married drivers or close friends who already know they work well together and don’t mind the close quarters required of OTR truck driving teams. Team driving allows one partner to drive while the other takes a break, either in the passenger seat or in the sleeper berth. This way, both drivers can receive valuable downtime while keeping the truck moving.  

 

This arrangement is also a smart way to abide by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulations on commercial driving breaks.  

 

According to the FMCSA, truck drivers are allowed to drive a maximum of 11 hours after 10 consecutive hours off duty. With team driving, one team member can drive for 11 hours while the other driver catches up on sleep, allowing the truck to be on the road for longer periods of time.  

 

The FMCSA also mandates that a driver must take a 30-minute break after driving 8 consecutive hours. During this break, the driver cannot be behind the wheel. With team driving, the driver can take their 30-minute break to rest while their partner continues the drive, resulting in fewer stops and faster deliveries. 

 

What are the benefits? 

Team driving is an increasingly popular option for many truckers because of the higher earnings, increased safety, and companionship.  

 

Although team drivers split their earnings for each load, they still make more on average than solo drivers. This is because team drivers can drive nearly double the number of hours per week as solo drivers, and they are often first selected for priority loads and loads that are in higher demand. In fact, according to Prime Inc., team drivers log an average of 4,500 to 5,000 miles a week, compared to an average of 2,400-2,800 miles a week for solo drivers. As a result, team drivers can find more consistent work and earn more money per mile driven than solo drivers.  

 

Besides providing a solution to the potential loneliness of trucking, bringing another driver along for the ride also increases the safety of yourself and your freight. Team driving allows you to ensure that your truck and freight are never left unattended. While one driver grabs food or hits the truck stop showers, the other driver can remain in the cab and keep watch.  

 

Team driving can also be a great option for female truck drivers who have valid safety concerns and might feel more comfortable sharing their cab with a trusted colleague while at truck stops and on the road.  

 

Are there any cons? 

While team driving is the perfect solution for many truckers, it’s important to consider the potential downsides as well.  

 

For drivers who are used to having the cab to themselves, it can take some time to adjust to a partner, even if they’re your spouse. Team drivers must always take into account another trucker’s opinion when making decisions, whether it’s about break times, what route to take, or even what speed to drive at.  

 

Trucking might feel lonely sometimes, but it can feel overcrowded quickly if you don’t get along with your partner. It’s important to get to know your partner before you set out on the road, so consider comparing your driving habits and personal interests to make sure the fit is right.  

 

The alternating schedule of team driving can be beneficial, but it can also affect your sleep quality if you’re not a heavy sleeper. Adjusting to sleeping during the day can be harder if there’s additional noise from your partner and the road, not to mention the bumps and braking that could keep you awake. Being well rested and alert is essential to trucking, so keep this in mind if you think sleeping in shifts could impact your ability to sleep while on the road.  

 

 

 

Whether you’re looking to earn more money per mile, gain experience by driving with a seasoned driver, or just feel a little less lonely on the road, team driving could be the right option for you.  

 

For more tips and strategies to make the most of your trucking profession, be sure to check out our social media or check out our other recent Truck Driver Blog posts.  

 

snowplow

If you’re considering becoming a snowplow driver, now’s the time. Much like in every other sector of transportation, there’s a tight labor market for snowplow drivers, so state DOTs as well as private snow removal companies are looking to hire. Here are the need-to-know facts about being a snowplow driver, so you can decide if it’s the right fit for you.  

What is a Snowplow Driver?

A snowplow driver is someone who clears snow and ice from city streets, driveways, parking lots, and anywhere else cars drive. If the plow is attached to a dump truck chassis, they’ll usually drop salt as they plow as well.  

Generally, there’s two options for people who want to become snowplow drivers. You can either work for your state’s DOT or a private landscaping or snow removal company.  

What Equipment do Snowplow Drivers Use?

It’s a common misconception that a “snowplow” is a kind of truck itself. A snowplow is actually just the attachment that is mounted on whatever vehicle that’s being used.  

If you choose the DOT route, you’ll likely be driving a dump truck with an attached plow. These are sometimes referred to as “winter service vehicles” and are used for plowing multi-lane city streets and highways.  

If you’re working for a landscaping or snow removal company, you’ll be driving a pickup truck or front-end loader with an attached snowplow. These vehicles are primarily used to plow smaller residential streets, parking lots, and driveways.  

What Qualifications are Needed to Become a Snowplow Driver?

Snowplow drivers need to either hold their CDL A or B. There may be additional requirements based on your specific state, so be sure to check with your state’s B/DMW for more information. Since most snowplow drivers won’t be crossing state lines, this makes it a great option for drivers who aren’t 21 yet. 

How Much Does Being a Snowplow Driver Pay?

Unless you live in a region of the country where snow is possible year-round, snowplow driving is a seasonal job. It’s great for drivers who are looking to make extra money during the winter months but isn’t sustainable year-round. 

Snowplow drivers will usually earn an hourly wage. This wage can be anywhere from $15-30 per hour depending on the state you live in and your experience level. This puts snowplow driving wages on the lower side when compared to other CDL B jobs.  

But keep in mind that snowplow driving is seasonal work, usually done to supplement someone’s income, not be their sole source of income. Here’s a breakdown of the average pay for snowplow drivers based on each state.  

What is Expected of Snowplow Drivers?

Snowplow drivers are at the beck and call of the weather. If heavy snow or sleet is in the forecast, snowplow drivers can expect early mornings and late nights.  

Aside from that, snowplow drivers should be comfortable driving in poor weather conditions. These drivers are the first line of defense and often find themselves in the harshest elements, plowing roads that they can barely see.  

If you think that you’re up to the challenge of being a snowplow driver, you’re in luck. Many state DOTs and private companies are looking for these kinds of drivers right now. Visit your state’s DOT website or do some research on landscaping/snow removal companies in your area for more information.  

If you’re looking for another type of CDL A or B job, consider making a free profile with Drive My Way. Our patented technology matches drivers with jobs that are matches for their qualifications and lifestyle preferences.

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ltl truckingIn past blogs, we’ve discussed the differences between OTR, Regional, and Local jobs as well as different types of hauls. One thing we haven’t talked about is LTL trucking. Here are the facts around it, so you can decide for yourself if an LTL trucking position is the right move for you.  

What Does LTL Mean?

LTL means “less-than-truckload”. This is a type of shipping service for businesses that need to move small quantities of product that wouldn’t fill up an entire 53” trailer. This differs from traditional TL (truckload) shipping where one customer fills up the entire trailer and the cargo goes to one destination. 

Why do companies do less-than-truckload?

LTL shipping is a huge industry, with the market being worth a whopping $86 million.

Why? Think about it this way. Not every company needs to ship an entire truckload worth of products, but they still need to get what they have from point A to point B. From the carrier’s perspective, it’s not viable to fill up a truck a quarter of the way for one customer. What’s the solution? 

This is where LTL carriers come in. These specialized carriers fill up trucks with product from multiple customers, with each only paying for the portion of the trailer that they use. The logistics of an operation like this are more complicated, but if done right, it’s a great for both the carrier and customer. 

LTL services are not to be confused with parcel services. Parcel services will usually carry items that are less than 150 pounds, while LTL carriers handle shipments between 151 and 15,000 pounds, though these numbers can vary based on each carrier.  

What are the Benefits to LTL Trucking Jobs?

Most LTL trucking jobs are regional or local, which means more home time for drivers. In a time where being with friends and family is becoming more and more important to drivers, LTL jobs shouldn’t be overlooked.  

Many LTL companies also have dedicated customers, so there’s a good chance you’ll have consistency in your route and schedule. 

What are the Cons?

Since LTL trucking involves multiple customers sharing trailer space, it also means multiple drop offs. If you’re working in a big city or congested town, this could mean hours of waiting in traffic, or waiting at different receiver each day. One delay early in the day could mean missing all your other appointments and possibly losing money.  

This is why it’s good for drivers to either look for carriers that pay by the hour or offer generous detention pay. This way, you’re not losing money while waiting at a receiver.

How to Find an LTL Job?

A quick online search will show you companies hiring LTL drivers. But a lot of companies don’t advertise their jobs as “LTL trucking jobs” so you may not be getting a big picture of all the jobs in your area. You may have to look at the job description carefully or reach out to the recruiter or HR person that you’re talking to see if it’s LTL or TL (truckload).  

How Much do LTL Trucking Jobs Pay?

On average, LTL trucking jobs pay around $66,000 per year. This is less than what a traditional OTR driver makes, but on par with local and regional drivers. 

But, like all trucking jobs, the devil is in the details. Pay can be confusing, so make sure to read job descriptions carefully and ask the company representative any and all questions so you can have an accurate picture of what your pay will look like before signing on.  

Do You Need a CDL for LTL Trucking Jobs?

Yes. Since the majority of LTL truckers drive a standard 53” trailer, you’ll need your CDL A. LTL jobs aren’t to be confused with delivery positions that usually only require a CDL B.  

LTL trucking jobs have their pros and cons just like any position in trucking. It all comes down to your individual needs relating to pay, home time, and benefits. If you’re looking for an LTL position, Drive My Way has you covered. Create a free profile and join the thousands of drivers finding their next CDL job.  

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Enviro-SafeToday’s job of the day is from Enviro-Safe Resource Recovery

Enviro-Safe Resource Recovery is hiring a CDL A Regional Tanker Driver in Germantown, WI.  The driver will haul Hazmat bulk products roughly 500 miles throughout the Regional Midwest.  Enviro-Safe Resource Recovery is a full-service resource recovery environmental company providing environmentally sustainable recycling programs to clients across Wisconsin and the Midwest, operating a state-of-art recycling facility in Germantown, Wisconsin.  We are a leading provider of diverse sustainability programs. Enviro-Safe has been recognized and selected nationally 10 years, as an “Inc. 5000 Company” and numerous years for various growth awards.

Enviro-Safe logoIn this position, you’ll make a difference at this Inc. 5000 growing company and family-owned business. If you want to be on a winning team, with low employee turnover, this might be the position you have been looking for.

Enviro-Safe is hiring a CDL A Regional Hazmat Liquid Bulk Driver in Germantown, WI.

Compensation:

  • Average weekly pay: $985 – $1,355 a week
    • Base Hourly Pay: $23 – $28 per hour
    • Average hours per week: 45-55 hours per week
    • Overtime available after 40 hours
    • Performance Bonus
    • Clean Inspection Bonus: $500 – $1,000
  • Paid via direct deposit bi-weekly

Benefits & Perks:

  • Great company benefits starting the first of the month on the first full month of employment:
    • Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
    • Life Insurance – Free!
    • Long Term Disability Included. Short term available for purchase.
    • 401K with 3% company match after 1 year
    • 9 Paid Company Holidays
    • 2 Weeks Paid Time Off + 3 personal days; 90 day waiting period
  • Paid training and paid orientation
  • Company Cell Phone
  • Perks: company credit card, wellness, uniform, etc.
  • Slip Seating: No

Route, Home Time, & Schedule:

  • Schedule: Monday through Friday. No weekend work, but extra hours can be made available.
  • Home Time: Only out 2-3 nights during the weekday
  • Flexibility regarding route and schedule is key
  • Route: 500 miles around the Regional Midwest
  • Level of Touch: Tanker hoses and pumps will be utilized

Equipment:

  • 2016 or newer Peterbilt or Internationals
  • Automatic
  • Outward-facing cameras
  • GPS

Qualifications:

  • Must have CDL A license with hazmat and tanker endorsements
  • Must have a minimum of 2 years verifiable Class A driving experience with vacuum or bulk tanker experience preferred
  • Drivers must have a clean driving record
  • Must meet Department of Transportation (DOT) testing and physical requirements and be knowledgeable of DOT regulations
  • Must be able to pass a required pre-employment drug screen
  • Hiring Radius: Drivers must live within 50 miles of Germantown or be willing to relocate for this position

Enviro-Safe trucks

Interested in applying?

Enviro-Safe Resource Recovery is hiring a CDL A Regional Hazmat Liquid Bulk Driver in Germantown, WI. Drivers earn good pay and benefits and get paid training!

Learn More & Apply

rands truckingToday’s job of the day is from Rands Trucking

Rands trucking logoIf you’re looking to get to the top of your career in a family environment, then check out the great OTR opportunities at Rands Trucking. We offer you a top-of-the-industry pay package combined with newer equipment, consistent miles, home time, and a work environment that gives you the respect and appreciation you’ve been looking for.

Join a company that cares for its employees and treats each driver like a family member! $3,000 signing bonus, non-forced dispatch, awesome team, and HONESTY!

Rands Trucking is hiring CDL A OTR Dry Van Company Drivers and Owner Operators in the Midwest/Northeast.

Company Drivers

Compensation:

  • Average annual or weekly pay: $75,000 Yearly AVG
    • 52 CPM with an average of 2,600 – 3,000 Miles per week
    • Additional Pay:
      • Jobsite: $40 Per stop
      • Tailgate Assist Stop: $20
      • 34-hour restart when OTR: $100
      • Break down pay: $16 per hour (after first hour)
      • Detention Pay: $16 per hour (after first hour)
      • Trailer Move: $20
      • Canada Pay: $50
      • DOT inspection: $25
      • New York City/Long Island Bonus: $100
      • Additional Load: $50
      • Holiday Working Pay: $100
      • Holiday Bonus Pay: $104
      • $3,000 signing bonus to all new hires!

Benefits:

  • Health Insurance after 60 days
  • 401K with 401K Match
  • Paid Holidays
  • Flexible home time
  • PTO after 1 year
  • In-house maintenance
  • Perks: Cell Phone Allowance, EZ Pass, PrePass
  • Rider program
  • Pet Program
  • Take your truck home program

Route, Home Time, & Schedule:

  • Home Time: OTR 2+ weeks at a time
  • Route: Run all 48 states  – Willing to do multi-stop
  • Level of Touch: must tailgate and be willing to do assisted unload – hauling Windows

Equipment:

  • Recently updated fleet Peterbilts, Cascadias, Kenworths, and Freightliners
  • All trucks equipped with APUS, Power Inverters, Refrigerators, Microwaves and Satellite Radio
  • Governed speed: 67MPH

Owner Operators

Compensation:

  • For drivers who are OTR 27+ days per month (82 days per quarter), Rands Trucking guarantees $125,000 gross pay. 1 day = 5+ hours
  • Average annual $125,000+
    • $1.36 per mile + FSC
    • Drop Pay ($30.00) ALL stops paid
    • Jobsite Stops: $40 per stop
    • Detention Pay: $30 per hour (after first hour)
    • New York City/Long Island Bonus: $100
    • $.02 Performance Bonuses (paid quarterly) will be calculated based on mileage ran for the quarter

Perks:

  • Rands Provides:
    • 15-20% Fuel Discount
    • Base License Plates
    • Tolls (Pre-Pass & EZpass)
    • 10 Year or Newer Trailers
    • 24/7 Support for Repairs
    • Payroll, Accounts Receivables, Taxes
    • Fuel Card
    • Dispatching Outbound & Inbound
  • Owner Operator Provides:
    • Bobtail Insurance
    • Physical Damage Insurance
    • Occupational Insurance
    • Legal and Operational Truck

Route, Home Time, & Schedule:

  • Home Time: OTR 2+ weeks at a time
  • Route: Run all 48 states  – Willing to do multi-stop
  • Level of Touch: must tailgate and be willing to do assisted unload – hauling Windows

Equipent Required:

  • Non-Trucking Liability Insurance (bobtail)
  • Workers Compensation Insurance- Occupational Insurance
  • Non-owned trailer Physical Damage Insurance in the amount of $20,000.00
  • Must be able to scale a minimum of 45,000lbs
  • Tractor must pass DOT inspection in our shop, prefer 5 years or newer
  • Older tractors accepted if in good mechanical and visual condition
  • Responsible for all policies and regulations of Rands Trucking, Inc.

Company Driver & Owner Operator Qualifications:

  • Must be at least 23 years of age
  • Drivers must have CDL A license
  • Must have a minimum of 1-year verifiable tractor-trailer driving experience
  • No more than three places of employment within the past year
  • No DUI/DWIs in last 5 years
    • No more than three moving violations within the past 3 years
    • No more than three minor preventable accidents within 3 years
    • No serious moving violations within the past 3 years
  • Must meet Department of Transportation (DOT) testing and physical requirements and be knowledgeable of DOT regulations
  • Must be able to pass a required pre-employment drug screen
  • Hiring Radius: Prefer drivers in the Midwest/Northeast regions. HOWEVER— will hire from all 48 with less frequent home time
  • Six Terminals: Ladysmith, WI – Medford, WI –Chippewa Falls, WI– Grinnell, IA – Mount Vernon, OH – Ringtown, PA

Rands Trucks

Interested in applying?

Rands Trucking is hiring CDL A OTR Dry Van Company Drivers and Owner Operators in the Midwest/Northeast. Drivers get regular home time, and great pay.

Company Driver  Owner Operator

Clear Harbors driverToday’s job of the day comes from Clean Harbors Environmental Services

As a Clean Harbors driver, you will be responsible for the safe transport of hazardous waste from a generator/facility to one of our facilities, adhering to DOT and hazardous waste regulations. At Clean Harbors we are passionate about providing premier environmental, energy, and industrial services.

clean harbors logo

When you work with the Clean Harbors team, you will perform work that truly makes a difference – not only in people’s lives but also in protecting the planet.  Safety is our No. 1 priority. As a driver, you’ll get the training and support to do your job and return home safely. Change your life for the better.  Apply today.

We are hiring for the following positions:

Why work for Clean Harbors?

  • Work for Top Environmental Safety Company
  • Great company culture
  • Company Drivers: Great pay and overtime after 40 hours
  • Company Drivers: Health and dental care
  • Owner Operators: Good base pay with additional pay opportunities
  • Paid orientation or training
  • Consistent freight
  • Sign-on and referral bonuses for all positions

clean harbors tanker

Interested in applying?

Learn more about the job requirements, benefits, pay and more.

Learn More & Apply

Midwest Refrigerated Services

Today’s job of the day comes from Midwest Refrigerated Services

MRS logoMidwest Refrigerated Services (MRS) is hiring CDL A drivers to haul fresh and frozen temperature-controlled freight. Family owned and operated for more than 60 years, Midwest Refrigerated Services is a growing leader in LTL refrigerated transportation and storage. Our team takes pride in the role we play in putting food on the table for millions of Americans every night. Our team of professional drivers represent our customers well, set high standards for themselves and are safe, confident, and independent. Discover the MRS difference!

Currently, Midwest Refrigerated Services is hiring CDL A OTR Company Drivers and Owner Operators in most states; Full time Local Drivers in Milwaukee, WI and Pleasant Prairie, WI; and Local Part-time Drivers in Milwaukee, WI.

Company Drivers

Midwest Refrigerated ServicesCompensation:

  • OTR Drivers
    • Average weekly pay: $1,400 – $1,680 gross per week; depending how you like to run
    • Mileage pay and a weekly minimum guarantee of $1,200 as long as you are available for 5.5 days of work
      • Base $.50 CPM practical miles with an average of 2,000 – 2,500 per week
      • All miles paid, loaded and unloaded
      • $240 for each day worked beyond 5.5 days
      • Opportunities for Drop and Pick and Detention Pay
    • OTR Bonuses:
      • Sign-on Bonus: $4,000; paid upon completion of service – $500 after 90 days, $750 after 6 months, $1,250 after 9 months, and $1,500 after 12 months.
      • Recruiting Bonus: $1,500 ($500 at 30 days, $500 at 60 days, $500 at 90 days)
      • Clean Inspection Bonus: $50

Benefits & Perks:

  • Great company benefits, eligible the 1st of the month after 60 days:
    • Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
    • $50,000 Life Insurance Policy – Free!
    • Short and Long Term Disability Coverage – Free!
    • 401(k) with 3% company match; eligible after 1 year of service
    • 8 Paid Company Holidays; eligible after 90 days
    • Paid Time Off (PTO)and Paid Vacation
      • See job post for details!
  • Paid Orientation!
  • Perks:
    • IPass provided
    • Personal Cell Phone Bill Credit: $46.16 per month
    • Weekly Comdata card supplied: $300
    • Headquarters terminal with brand new driver amenities: drivers lounge, TVs, pool table, kitchen, new washer and dryers, mailboxes, copier, showers, etc.
  • Rider Program:
    • Spouse or companion: 18 years or older
    • Child: under 18 years old, approval required
    • Pets: No breed or size restriction; $500 security deposit required
  • Take The Truck Home Program; approval required (OTR & Regional)

Home Time, Route, and Schedule:

  • Home Time:
    • OTR Drivers can be home weekly (34 hr. reset at home) or choose to stay out (earn 1/4 day off for each day on the road)
    • Regional Drivers will be home 2-3 nights per week
    • Local Drivers will be home every night
  • Level of Touch: Varies by position
  • Route: Varies by position

Equipment:

  • Late model 2019 & 2020 Freightliner Cascadias
  • All automatic transmissions with a fridge, APU, inverter, dinette, heated/cooled driver’s seat, tv hook-up, and free SiriusXM satellite radio
  • Governed speed: 65 mph

Owner Operators

midwest refrigerated servicesCompensation

  • No Forced Dispatch!
  • Consistent steady outbound lanes; driver manager coordinates backhaul
  • Paid 85% of your gross line haul revenue when pulling your own 53 foot reefer trailer
  • Paid 75% of your gross line haul revenue when pulling a MRS company trailer
  • Additional Pay:
    • Drop Pay: $100 per drop, after the 1st drop
    • Detention Pay
    • Layover Pay
    • Lumper or driver unloaded – all paid!
  • Bonuses:
    • Recruitment Bonus: $1500, $500 at 30 days, $500 at 60 days, $500 at 90 days.
  • Competitive fuel surcharge schedule: see post for details
  • Fuel tax calculated by MRS and credited or deducted monthly
  • Weekly pay settlement via direct deposit or check

Benefits & Perks

  • Discounted MRT Group insurance offered
  • Perks:
    • Fuel cards with huge fuel discounts; all fuel discounts passed through to Owner Operator
    • Base plates & Permits: IFTA Permit, NY HUT, and other permits supplied
    • Washout and spotting charges are reimbursed
    • Company paid inspections
    • $400 Weekly Comdata card for advances, lumpers

Home Time, Route, & Schedule

  • Home Time: Home weekly
  • Route: Over the road across the lower 48 states
  • Level of Touch: 50% drop and hook, 50% load and unload. Lumper or driver unloaded; Live unload

Job Requirements (All Positions):

  • Must be at least 23 years of age
  • Must have a valid CDL A license
  • Must have a minimum of 2 years verifiable tractor-trailer driving experience; minimum of 1 year refrigerated experience is preferred
  • Must be capable of driving extended periods of time, up to the maximum allowable times, safely, under a variety of conditions, including night driving, mountain driving.
  • No DUI/DWIs or reckless driving charges in the last 5 years
  • Must meet Department of Transportation (DOT) testing and physical requirements and be knowledgeable of DOT regulations
  • Must be able to pass a required pre-employment drug screen
  • Hiring Radius: Varies by position

Midwest Refrigerated Services

Interested in applying?

Midwest Refrigerated Services is hiring CDL A OTR Company Drivers and Owner Operators in most states, full-time Local Drivers in WI, and part-time Local Drivers in WI.

Learn More & Apply

american central transport

Today’s job of the day comes from American Central Transport

ACTAmerican Central Transport (ACT) is named one of the best fleets to drive for 3 consecutive years! At ACT, their standards are high and so is their pay. They strive to fill every company truck driver job with a seasoned professional who is looking to build a long-term, profitable career. In addition, they offer a great freight base, year-round productivity, and the opportunity to provide the kind of income and benefits a family deserves.

Driving for ACT is about respect and support for the job and paying drivers well for doing it. They are a company that works hard to support drivers, while drivers work hard to support their families. Join the ACT team and enjoy nothing but the best!

Currently, American Central Transport is hiring CDL A OTR/Regional Dry Van Drivers in the following locations:

Job Highlights:

  • american central transport

    Top of the line equipment: T680 Kenworth’s with upgraded memory foam mattresses & Freightliner Cascadias! Carrier Inverters &  APU’s in all trucks!

  • Outstanding pay (average $63,000)
    • Sign-on bonus of $4,500
  • Consistent, reliable freight
  • Take the truck home program
  • Flexible home time: Regional drivers are guaranteed 6 days home per month!
  • Medical insurance (Health and Rx): Blue Cross Blue Shield
  • Flex spending for medical & child care expenses
  • Paid Vacation & Holiday Pay
  • 401(k) retirement pay
  • Dental, Life, Vision & AD &D insurance, Short term disability, Term Life Insurance
  • Free rider authorization
  • Pet rider options

Job Requirements:

  • Valid Class A CDL
  • Minimum 22 years of age.
  • 9 months verifiable OTR tractor trailer experience
  • Stable verifiable work history
  • No DUI or DWI convictions in the past 7 years.
  • No DOT preventable accidents in the past 18 months

American Central Transport

Join the American Central Transport Team!

American Central Transport is hiring CDL A OTR/Regional Dry Van Drivers in multiple locations. Join their team!

Learn More & Apply

Today’s job of the day is from Mennel Milling Company

At The Mennel Milling Company, we are proud of our heritage and excited about our future. We have been in business for over 130 years because we do things the right way, with integrity. We measure our success by each of the custom products that we produce and through a keen understanding of our customer’s unique and individual needs. Anchored by our core values – quality, uniformity, and service – Mennel is committed to always bringing our best.

Mennel Milling Company is hiring a Local Bulk CDL A Truck Driver in Fostoria, OH and a Regional Dry Van CDL A Truck Driver in Northwest Ohio.

COMPENSATION:

  • $0.51 per mile trip rate (averages $2,300-$2,600 bi-weekly)
    • Avg miles – 2,100/week
  • Home Daily
  • Saturday/Sunday rates
  • Holiday rates
  • Loading and unloading pay
  • Layover pay
  • Regional: Food allowance – $18/day

BENEFITS:

  • Medical, dental, vision – after 90 days
  • 401K and company match – after 6 months
  • 11 paid holidays, Paid Time Off is offered
  • Uniforms provided
  • Cell phone reimbursement
  • EZ Pass/tolls

ROUTE,  HOME TIME & DUTIES:

  • Local Drivers
    • Shift varies depending on workload, typically 10-14 hours per day
    • Home Daily
    • 6 days worked per week
  • Regional Drivers
    • Shift varies depending on workload, typically 10-14 hours per day.
    • 5 days worked per week
    • Freight is customer driven based on appointment times – could leave out Sunday afternoons for Monday am delivery and return with a back haul for a reload in Fostoria
    • Drivers can be home 1 or two nights per week
  • Essential Duties
    • Transport palletized flour in a safe and efficient manner
    • Local: Loading and unloading pneumatic trailer is required
    • Regional: No Touch Freight
    • Conduct daily inspections of the vehicle up to and including observation and reporting equipment or mechanical failures.
    • Comply with all DOT and in-house regulations and rules.
    • Serve as a brand advocate and ambassador in every interaction with customers.

EQUIPMENT:

  • Local: Day cabs with dry bulk pneumatic trailers (automatic)
  • Regional: 2013 and newer regional sleeper truck (automatic), no slip seating, Macks & Volvos.

WORK ENVIRONMENT:

While performing the duties of these jobs, the employee is regularly exposed to conditions that are typical to a fast–paced environment, including: moving equipment and machinery, dusty, hot/humid, and cold conditions; employee must be willing to work in all weather conditions, at heights, in precarious places; in the presence of airborne particles.

QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Minimum age of 23 years old
  • Class A driver’s license in good standing
  • 1+ year experience as a driver of commercial motor vehicles
  • No record of driver’s license suspension or revocation during the previous three year period

Interested in applying?

Learn more about the job requirements, benefits, pay, and more.

Local Bulk Driver  Regional Dry Van Driver