It goes without saying that inexperienced drivers find job hunting challenging. Yet, getting hired is still feasible. If you have just obtained your CDL license, there are plenty of opportunities thanks to increased freight demand. Be prepared to do some footwork and apply to several companies.
Why Companies Don’t Hire New Drivers
After completing your course at https://truckschool.net/, you may discover that your dream employer expects at least two years of experience. The first reason is insurance policies that prohibit hiring inexperienced drivers.
Secondly, new drivers are more likely to have a collision. Statistically, they have a higher violation rate and damages are more likely. Finally, employers have to spend a lot on training newly licensed candidates.
6 Tricks for Newly Licensed Drivers
Here are six ways to increase your chances of getting hired. With a clever approach to job hunting, you will break the initial barrier and start a driving career.
1. Apply to a Lot of Vacancies
Send as many applications as possible to increase the chance of landing a job. Large companies, the mega carriers, are preferable. They usually have driver trainers and are more willing to invest in new employees. A trainer takes new hires on the road and teaches them all the ropes.
2. Apply to Jobs Involving Other Vehicles
Driving a tractor trailer is not the only way to gain experience. Some carriers have trucks of different types (straight trucks, dump trucks, plow, gravel trucks, etc.), and they also need drivers. Check out vacancies in construction companies, townships, railroad companies, and lumberyards.
You can drive different types of trucks with a CDL or Class AZ license. These jobs also pay better than OTR positions and often come with a pension plan. You will get paid by the hour.
Subsequently, you will be able to get a job at an OTR trucking company. Many of these businesses value experience in driving other truck types, as these are also heavy commercial vehicles. They need experienced commercial drivers, not necessarily tractor-trailer drivers.
3. Look for Companies That Carry Teams
Employers are reluctant to let inexperienced drivers work on their own. Look for companies that carry teams. Most of them service the West coast. They have long-haul routes (over 2,000 miles). If you get a job, you will accompany an experienced driver.
4. Find an Independent Broker/Owner Operator
You may get lucky and get hired by an independent company.
5. Look for an Apprenticeship Program
Newly licensed drivers can apply for apprenticeships programs. Some OTR companies have their own finishing schools.
6. Take What You Are Offered
The first position will not necessarily meet your expectations. You are unlikely to land your dream job immediately, but don’t be discouraged! Starting is the hardest part.
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