Is It A Bad Time To Start A New Career?

Everything I am reading is speaking of slow freight and a weak economy right now. Does that mean it is a bad time to make a career switch? Is there still money to be made in this industry?

Lucus, it’s not a bad time to start a career but it is a more difficult time than it was a year or two ago.

The answer to your question depends on so many factors that are unique to you as an individual. Where you live can be an advantage or a disadvantage. Your age? Physical condition? Home time requirements? Etc, etc.

Most companies are still hiring, although perhaps more selectively due to the slowdown. But recruiters are still recruiting so it is very favorable for getting started, especially if you have what companies are looking for.

There will always be a need for new drivers because older ones retire, some wash out because they find themselves unsuited to the job and lifestyle while others get fired for some egregious violation or accident.

If you were more specific about your situation and goals, you could get better guidance here.

Lucus, it’s not a bad time to start a career but it is a more difficult time than it was a year or two ago.

The answer to your question depends on so many factors that are unique to you as an individual. Where you live can be an advantage or a disadvantage. Your age? Physical condition? Home time requirements? Etc, etc.

Most companies are still hiring, although perhaps more selectively due to the slowdown. But recruiters are still recruiting so it is very favorable for getting started, especially if you have what companies are looking for.

There will always be a need for new drivers because older ones retire, some wash out because they find themselves unsuited to the job and lifestyle while others get fired for some egregious violation or accident.

If you were more specific about your situation and goals, you could get better guidance here.

I have been in contact already with prime inc. I am a fairly healthy guy in my mid 30s. I have a clean driving record etc etc. I plan to send my family to my wife’s home in the Philippines and drive for a few years to have capital to start some businesses over there (we already own a house there) so hometime will be something I do not need much of. I will be looking to maximize earnings after receiving the best training I can.

Thank you for your reply. I had dreams/plans of hitting the open road a decade ago when I got out of the army but the timing wasn’t right. My wife and I have been together for 16 years, so we are rock solid. I think it’s the best timing personally that I have ever had to pursue this dream of mine to see America.

I am only worried, not from a place of negativity, but because I analyze things way too much.

And I only ask because I know if it is causing me concern, it may be concerning for others looking to make a career move. So if I ask it here, others can benefit from the answers, whether they are reassuring or confirm the concerns.

Thanks Lucus

Lucus, sounds like you should be able to get through the process. Prime is a great company if you can get in with them. I think they are not currently hiring out of Florida.

We also have a member here who recently finished his career and moved to the Philippines, Steve Reno.

Everything I am reading is speaking of slow freight and a weak economy right now. Does that mean it is a bad time to make a career switch? Is there still money to be made in this industry?

If a company will hire you and put you through their training then I say go for it. I would not just go get your cdl on your own and then try to find a company though (doesn’t sound like you’re doing that anyways) because there’s no guarantee you’ll get a job quickly. But yes, if Prime wants to invest in you to get you your cdl and all that then by all means go for it, because if they’re willing to invest the money into you to get you that cdl then they’ll want to get a return on their investment which is great for you and should help you sleep better at night

Besides the fact, this economic "crisis" is government created during an election year lol.....Same stuff every 4 years, same with the BS retoric they spew on SSA & all that......

This too will pass, and things should pick up as usual, like always. Same as back in the 60's, "EVERYTHING people get, a truck brought it" (just watched the Hoffa movie yesterday) lol

Good luck in your journey, and stackin' dem Benjie's lol

Guys, I appreciate your replies. I will keep you posted on my progress in the process.

Look at it like a gift and a curse. The curse is the money side. You won't make as much as you would've 2 years ago, but the slow times allow you to take your time and learn on a curve.

True Lucas. I'm kinda in the same boat as ya. I'm watching and listening to all my new Friends on here. Thank's for asking the questions. Good luck to you and I'll see you out there buddy.

And I only ask because I know if it is causing me concern, it may be concerning for others looking to make a career move. So if I ask it here, others can benefit from the answers, whether they are reassuring or confirm the concerns.

Thanks Lucus