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How to Choose the Best Truck Driving Company to Work For?

Truck driving is one of the most in-demand jobs in America, but not many people know what it's like to drive a truck for a living. Whether you're already involved in the trucking industry or simply looking for a change of pace, here are some things to keep in mind as you learn more about this popular field.

Trucking is big business in America. Truck drivers are responsible for transporting nearly ten billion tons of freight annually. That makes up about $740 billion worth of goods and services!

The transportation industry contributes over $425 billion to the American economy each year, accounting for 2% of its GDP (gross domestic product). It would all be impossible without professional drivers' dedication and hard work.

The Best Companies are Transparent

The best trucking companies don’t make their drivers guess what they will earn on the road and what benefits they are entitled to. Instead, they are transparent about all of these things, allowing a potential driver to evaluate whether the company is a good fit for them.

It is essential to look at job descriptions before making a final decision. You need to see what your responsibilities will be and how you may advance in your career. In addition, you need information about pay and benefits packages to decide whether or not this particular company is right for you.

You also need to know more about the kind of work expected of you as a professional driver. Some jobs require more hours behind the wheel than others, and some have more flexible schedules while others do not. Knowing which kind of trucker you want to be and what kind of schedule suits your lifestyle will help you determine your future.

Location is a Big Factor

Some companies offer their drivers great benefits and jobs, but they require that you drive far from home. If family time is more important than your career, then this isn’t going to work for you. It’s very important that you consider how close you are willing (or not willing) to be from your family before applying for a job with a trucking company.

Make sure that the company will work with you to fit your needs. If they won’t let you relocate or work in your area, ask about moving costs. Different trucking companies offer various levels of financial assistance when it comes to relocating drivers. Some companies will cover all costs while others will cover partial costs only. This could make quite an impact on what company is best for you and your situation.

Trucking is a competitive industry. If a trucking company wants to hire you, they have to put their best foot forward to convince you that you should come work for them. However, one size does not fit all. You may not feel comfortable with all the benefits and incentives they offer. For example:

  • You may not want to be an owner-operator and lease on with the company, or they might only provide this as an option
  • You may feel uncomfortable driving long-haul routes (although these are often the highest paying routes)
  • You may feel awkward driving team routes with someone unfamiliar
  • Also, make sure that you are satisfied with the company’s safety record

Consider the Benefits

The benefits package can often vary from company to company, and this is where you'll want to do some proper research. Make sure the company you choose has a 401(k) or other retirement plans so that you'll be able to take advantage of tax-free contributions and matching funds, which typically make up a percentage of your salary each year.

In addition to an employer-sponsored retirement plan, make sure the company offers paid time off and health insurance. Some companies also offer optional life insurance coverage. Benefits packages are changing all the time, so it's important that you're aware of what they entail—especially if they're not included in the free employee handbooks provided by every employer.

Good culture makes drivers feel like family. This can include driver appreciation banquets or luncheons periodically throughout the year, holiday parties for drivers and their families, birthday card mailings from dispatch staff members, special events such as golf tournaments or BBQ cook-outs at their headquarters each year that drivers can attend with their families. These activities let drivers know they’re valued by management and appreciated by other staff members within the organization.

The DMR Difference

Since 2008 DMR Transportation has served the U.S. with exceptional drivers and equipment to keep supply chains operating as smoothly as possible. We ensured our drivers were getting the work needed to keep them and their families safe with a beneficial career even during the pandemic. To learn more about the many opportunities we have for potential drivers and those working in logistics, please visit our current openings. At DMR, we always strive to be the best option for truckers looking to develop a strong lifetime career.