Werner Vs CRST

I too am looking at Werner, CRST, C R England, and Roehl as companies to start out with. I'd like to hear from those who may have or still do drive for any of the companies I listed. Or from anyone who drives for a different company that they may consider a decent compant to start out with.

Hello Anthony, and welcome to our forum!

You have to be careful when getting started in this career, but it's not because of anything you would expect. You don't have to do this mysterious dance around trying to figure out which companies are out to screw you over. These guys are in business to move freight. That's what they do, and they can't do that without high performing drivers in their trucks.

Okay, did you catch that phrase "high performing drivers?" That's got to be your primary concern.

I've watched people literally stress themselves out over which company to start with. They build elaborate spread sheets and jump all around in various online formats trying to extrapolate what they consider to be relevant data. In the end, they are so confused they don't know where to go. They finally settle on the lesser of 198 evil choices, only to fail at trucking before their third month solo.

It's a classic rookie trucker blunder - too much information, and not enough motivation. Trucking is a performance based career. The reason so many people fail is because they expect to find just the right company that will "set them up for success." Guess what? I'm letting you in on some "insider information." Are you ready? Here it is... These trucking companies are not interested in helping you, or babysitting you, in the hope that you will appreciate their efforts and eventually blossom into a valuable employee.

Trucking operations are seeking self starters. They need people who are motivated to jump in and be productive. They don't have the time or money to waste on training their competition. That's what happens in trucking. As soon as a driver gets it into his head that he knows what he's doing, he jumps ship. He thinks he's valuable, and not appreciated properly. This mentality that says "I'm not being respected by my company" is pure poison.

The pathway to respect in this industry is a lonely one - meaning not many people take that path. Everyone lays the burden for "respect" on the company. When everybody knows respect is something earned, how can we slander the trucking company's credibility? We are the ones who determine our level of respect. We determine our level of success, and even our level of income. We don't just drive trucks, we drive our own experience in this rewarding career.

I teach people that any company willing to give you a shot is worthy of your attention. Just focus on the basics. Determine what type of freight you want to start with, and how often you'd like to get home. Then narrow your search based on that. Put in a few applications and get started with the one you choose. That's all easy.

The challenging part is establishing yourself. That's what everybody misunderstands. They look to the company to "give them lots of miles." Or they expect to be treated as if they are a valuable asset because they are a "CDL holder." The reality is that you are on trial. Eyes are on you to see if you can produce. The only thing speaking on your behalf is the record you establish.

Rookies are in a tough spot, but most of them don't realize it. New drivers have got to be safe, productive, and non combative. It's a golden formula that trucking companies look for. If any of those three characteristics is lacking, you'll find yourself wanting to blame the company for your issues, and the company will be less inclined to keep you on their list of prioritized drivers.

Potential in this industry must be demonstrated by the drivers. It's not some award given by the company. Potential has nothing to do with the name on the truck. Success in trucking is something that springs from within you. I mentioned motivation earlier. It's a critical component for success at this.

As a rookie, I practiced things that many experienced drivers don't even think about. I started experimenting with moving my appointments forward. I made a practice of communicating with my customers and working my clock for efficiency. All these practices earned me respect, more miles, and way more money. I did all this at a company who is considered by most drivers as a terrible place to work.

Here's a great Podcast that I want you to listen to. I think it may help you understand which things are important. Right now, I think you're kind of being thrown off the right path by your research.

Stop The Fear And Doubt. Focus On Your Own Success.

Thanks Old School for your words of wisdom!

I probably didn't phrase my question the right way and meant no disrespect to any trucking companies.

I understand it's not a perfect world and I won't find the perfect company to drive for. Being former military I have always been a highly motivated individual and as a former small business owner I always sought opinions from others in the automotive repair industry. Doesn't mean i always agreed with them but I always listened to what others have had to say and formed my own opinion, did some more research, developed a plan, and executed. I guess some habits are hard to break!

I guess making a life changing career change at 58, I'm just a little more cautious these days

Tony

Tony, I'm on record, many times, saying that being a former business owner is a real help when going into trucking. That mindset of being task and goal oriented is as crucial to success in trucking as it is in business. Here's an article on the subject.

Top Tier Truck Drivers Operate Like Great Business Owners