Profile For Papa Bear

Looking for what my options are in this situation.

I'm driving a 56K lb GVWR dual axle dump truck (empty the scale tells me I'm 25,980lbs) for a private owner who does paving. Practically every day he sends me to get 17 ton of asphalt, which is putting me over weight. They are always using back roads and trying to avoid highways and roadways to avoid the obvious which is DOT.

I pull a trailer to the jobs before dropping it to go get asphalt, it's a dual axle trailer which I carry heavy equipment such as a milling machine, steam roller and large bobcat, all of which I am unaware of the weights and it's like a big secret. I just started here and the practices are really concerning. Looking for some veteran feedback on what my options are in this situation.

Great info! I'll be sure to definitely do the optional classes, I want to be as best prepared as can be when I go out there on my own and unfortunately I feel as though I've reached my peak with my trainer.

Question for you, in your latest article, you note using a little savvy to get your loads in and out sooner when early. What do you recommend with dealing with shippers and receivers when you can get to your appointment time early, to get the ball rolling quicker, so you can be on to your next load?

Really good helpful info here Rainy!

Super stoked and ready to upgrade!

Do you get a choice between auto and stick?

Are you a lease op or company driver?

Excellent info Rainy, I appreciate it! During this time do you get to stay at the Oasis or the campus inn?

Also, can I get on the waiting list for a truck as soon as my trainer drops me off in Springfield, or do I need to complete the SIM lab, cbt's and paperwork first? As a company driver, how much leeway do you get with the truck you get, such as preferences etc?

Excellent info all, thank you kindly! Rainy, is Bobby from the Pittston terminal your Fleet manager?

Hey everyone. Was hoping to get some feedback from some of the experienced drivers who've gone through Primes training program.

I'm a bit over half way through my 40k miles until I upgrade to A seat, and was curious what the process entails after I complete the 40k miles. Will my trainer take me back to Springfield, or since I live in PA, will I go to Pittston? What should I expect upon completion of the 40k miles? At what point do I go about getting in my own truck, etc?

Anyone with Prime that wouldn't mind chiming in with some feedback, would be greatly appreciated!

Ok good deal. A friend of mine working for Prime (but got his permit and cdl through another company prior) believed I should be able to get my permit in PA and then transfer it to MO and recommended I look deeper into it. I was under the impression as each of you noted to just wait until I get to MO to get the permit there. I appreciate the clarification from each of you!

And Turtle, I just started reading your log with your start with Prime, and can say it is highly insightful!

I live in PA and will be going to Prime's student driver program in MO. Do I obtain my permit first in PA or wait until I arrive in MO and get the permit there? Finding mixed info on this subject so any advice from the experienced would be greatly appreciated!

Off topic, this site is amazing and offers a tremendous amount of resources for the trucking industry. I've thoroughly used the Paid CDL Training Program link to research all companies offering said programs and has given me valuable insight to make an educated decision on narrowing options. I've also fully read the entire log from Rainy regarding her experience with Prime's program and regard that as a highly valuable first hand testimonial for any potential students exploring Prime or any of the paid CDL programs. I'm currently enjoying the High Road CDL Training Program versus just reading from the manual. Excellent site here and I highly praise all the information provided for anyone looking to get into the industry!