Flatbed Newbie.

I'll be fresh out of CDL school soon and like the flatbed side of the industry. I've been approved by TMC and CT transportation which are the only two companies I've applied to flatbed wise. CT transportation, I really don't like the 100 percent automatic part of their company. And TMC their percentage pay worries me. If anyone has any experience or knowledge on the two that would help. Also any other Flatbed companies that hires recent grads with a good rep would be appreciated. Thanks

I'll be fresh out of CDL school soon and like the flatbed side of the industry. I've been approved by TMC and CT transportation which are the only two companies I've applied to flatbed wise. CT transportation, I really don't like the 100 percent automatic part of their company. And TMC their percentage pay worries me. If anyone has any experience or knowledge on the two that would help. Also any other Flatbed companies that hires recent grads with a good rep would be appreciated. Thanks

Have you thought about Maverick? Also Swift and Prime both have flatbed divisions.

I believe TMC will give you the option to run cpm pay if you choose to do so. I have been on percentage for the last almost 3 years it's not really different. I have however talked to very many drivers with tmc and have heard way more complements on the company then complaints. They have a top notch securment class as well. I wish I would have started with them just for that class alone.

The entire industry is transitioning to auto-shift. That should not be a determining factor in your employment decision.

Thanks for inputs. I actually just called and talked to Melton. I think I could give them a chance. If anyone has a warning feel free to let me know.

Checkout McElroy also, stand up no nonsense company that seems to care about drivers.

I'm with maverick now. honestly you can't go wrong with any of the companies mentioned. home on weekends and decent pay is the norm. it will come down to what suits you and your location. some companies have more options in different areas of the country. as was mentioned earlier don't worry about the automatics, most companies are going that way and will train on manuals anyway

Thanks for inputs. I actually just called and talked to Melton. I think I could give them a chance. If anyone has a warning feel free to let me know.

Warning?

Richard the only warning I'll offer is please go into this with the expectation that your success is entirely up to you. The companies mentioned will provide all the tools, training, and support necessary to enable your success. It's up to you to make it work.

Good drivers; safety conscience, strong work ethic, positive attitude and an even tempered personality can be successful anywhere.

All of the companies mentioned in this thread are top notch, professionally run organizations.

My only tangible warning about TMC; if a sign at any of their properties states: "stay off the grass." Follow the instructions...

Good luck.

Don’t rule out Maverick they have been very good and fair with me anyhow. Their training is excellent.

I suppose I'll jump in here and reinforce everyone else's comment that any of the majors will be an excellent company, provided you do your part. I'm in Prime's flatbed division and I love it. Truth be told I'd be happy with any company because I've created my own success. You can do the same no matter where you go. Good luck and do let us know how it's going.