Swift Transportation Solo OTR 1 Year Review

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  • Опубліковано 30 бер 2021
  • I talk about the pros and cons of Swift after driving for them for a year Solo OTR.
    This is my first UA-cam video. If you have any ideas/suggestions/criticisms please leave them in the comment section below.
    Trucking Channels that helped me:
    Clutch Trucker - / @clutchtrucker
    Cash is King - / @cashiskingtrucking
    BOC Enterprises - / channel
    DIY Semi - / @diysemi

КОМЕНТАРІ • 165

  • @RUSSKIization
    @RUSSKIization 2 роки тому +22

    truckers new or not should be making min 2k a week specially the OTR guys you are the real road warriors I was lucky to get local work when I started cant imagine going east to west regional 3 days a week and I am already crying and sleeping in hotels

    • @5.7dobey
      @5.7dobey 6 місяців тому

      Why don’t people get there endorsements ?

  • @armyscout
    @armyscout 2 роки тому +22

    Experience will differ. I drive for Swift, and have been for about 8 months. I started at .49 CPM. Was able to get into a dedicated account (Walmart), I jumped to .63 CPM. I also make 15-25 dollars per stop. I am home for ALL my 34s. All my runs were no more than 600-650 miles round trip so my trips were all turn and burns. They put me in a newish truck, 2021 with 83k miles on it. I average 2700-2900 miles per week, take home is about 1500-1700 a week. Being that I am a retired veteran, I did not have to get the medical benefits with Swift. I have no complaints and will never talk bad about this carrier.

    • @easttexastrucker8242
      @easttexastrucker8242  2 роки тому +3

      I’m glad you had a good experience. Industry pay has increased significantly over the past year so it’s good to see Swift did as well. When I came in starting pay for rookies was .37 cpm. After 6 months I was up to .45 cpm. My mentor works on the Temple WalMart account as well and gets .63 cpm. It’s not a bad gig. I’m currently making .96 cpm at RTI doing teams but will be leaving soon for a new opportunity

    • @lacurt2351
      @lacurt2351 2 роки тому

      .96cpm each team member ?

    • @Jiggernaut-iv9vo
      @Jiggernaut-iv9vo Рік тому

      Finally a man that tells it like it is

    • @danielcorsino
      @danielcorsino Рік тому

      I’m starting with swift in august. Hope I can get as lucky as you lol, 27/male single so 34’s.. gosh I work 80/week now I can’t remember the last time I got 34hrs off without feeling bad about it/being forced somehow not to work lol.

  • @Olesnapper
    @Olesnapper 3 роки тому +13

    It’s great seeing drivers helping drivers. I’ve been out here 13 years. I do the same on my channel trying to help other drivers. We are all family out here on the road

    • @bailey2517
      @bailey2517 2 роки тому +3

      I'm planning on applying to swift soon. It's really nice seeing comments like yours. You have a great attitude towards this job and it's nice knowing there are people like you that will help us newbies out :)

  • @TheFreddyja
    @TheFreddyja Рік тому +1

    One of the better vids I’ve seen out here, not all over the place because you seem organized reading off your Screen, good work. I been hauling dirt and Aggs about 5 years driving in circles in the same State. I am burned out and ready to hit the open road. Thanks for your vid kid

  • @emarteliz
    @emarteliz 2 роки тому +3

    Thanks 🙏 I really appreciate your honesty, I think 🤔 I found my answers. Great video

  • @kellypatterson8506
    @kellypatterson8506 3 роки тому +4

    Good video keep it up, There is nuances to driving truck that cannot really be tought so much as a has to be learned

  • @carrotbailey
    @carrotbailey 2 роки тому +7

    Thank you for the incredibly detailed breakdown, sir.

  • @Dangers_of_the_Internet
    @Dangers_of_the_Internet 3 роки тому +10

    It is a good starter company. Even their lease purchase program was better than others. (From personal experience). But you're right, after a year of experience you can get almost any trucking job. Just use Swift as a learning company and learn what you can. But there are a lot of companies that won't babysit you as much either. But I remember sitting a lot or having way too much time to deliver the load. It was good once In awhile, but not ALL the time. Getting loads on Sundays was a hassle too. This was years ago. 2015-2016

  • @EveSwayzz
    @EveSwayzz 2 роки тому +2

    Thx man I leave for swift next week Monday I saw on live earlier they announced for otr to start at 50 cents in October happy for that

  • @MarkOPolo456
    @MarkOPolo456 3 роки тому +2

    Really great information about Swift. Thank you!

  • @eugenewalls9643
    @eugenewalls9643 3 роки тому +3

    Thank you great job on your commentary

  • @samzachariah9269
    @samzachariah9269 3 роки тому +1

    Great topic, I really appreciate the tips

  • @mohamadmasoomkarimi805
    @mohamadmasoomkarimi805 3 роки тому +2

    Thank you so much for great information

  • @kwalker1731
    @kwalker1731 2 роки тому +8

    Thank you for this information. Seriously, this is gold! I just got my class A permit 10-27-21 on the first try! I mean my great uncle gave me his old CDL book and I’ve been reading and studying for years now! I can’t wait to get out there and make my pops proud 🥲. Thank you for the inspiration bro, see ya on the road 👍

  • @toddb3394
    @toddb3394 3 роки тому +14

    You're a young guy with a great attitude. You will do well with whatever you choose.
    I really liked the video and am subscribing.
    I've had my CDL since 96. I was 21. I am from a family of truck drivers and diesel mechanics. I've never done the OTR thing.
    Been with the same company for 20 years now pulling doubles.
    Good money is out there and with you're attitude you will make it.
    Best of luck!

    • @easttexastrucker8242
      @easttexastrucker8242  3 роки тому +5

      Appreciate it Todd. Love hearing from you older guys about your experiences.

  • @jeremyutley7130
    @jeremyutley7130 2 роки тому +1

    Thank you for keeping it real.

  • @kentwilliams1653
    @kentwilliams1653 2 роки тому +2

    I would love to hear from the new dispatchers at swift, See what they thought of the disgruntle driver recording. I am the driver who made that and very proud of it. All drivers need to hear it! My terminal was Atlanta. It gives good insight into how dispatchers treat drivers.

  • @pixelhand9421
    @pixelhand9421 Рік тому +1

    I've driven a lot of vehicles for a living but never a truck. Been watching a lot of videos on swift. Honestly I would love all that downtime and slow pace. A nice hotspot, a gaming laptop and VR headset will rip through your time. 1k a week to not get hassled and rushed? I think im sold.

  • @manuelitovo
    @manuelitovo 3 роки тому +2

    Great video always learnig i salute you from ny city information is the club

  • @Brett235
    @Brett235 Рік тому +2

    I went through M.S. Carriers truck driving school in Phoenix in 2000. I did 5 weeks at the school and it was awesome. I did 6 weeks on my trainers truck, I had a female trainer and although she was very nice she really didn't teach me anything. I had to figure it out on my own from other seasoned drivers. I didn't stay otr simply because I had two small kids at home. I wished I had stuck it out and learned more. I've only had 6 jobs in 22 years and that's pretty good in the trucking industry. It won't be too much longer and I'll be retiring, maybe another two years.

  • @trents.b6903
    @trents.b6903 2 роки тому +9

    Awesome vid. Finally telling the truth that the first year is paying your dues. I'm on a waitlist and been researching. I just want the xp so I can move on forward. Too many dudes complaining and I'm sure it's a rough ass start but it's a high paying career. I can't wait.

    • @easttexastrucker8242
      @easttexastrucker8242  2 роки тому +6

      That’s what made we want to do the video. Put out a realistic review of the pros and cons so guys coming in to the industry can make a more informed decision than I did when I came in

    • @Lbxtae
      @Lbxtae 2 роки тому +6

      Gotta start somewhere can’t never start at the top gotta work our way up at whatever we choose to do in life 💯

  • @gregorylyon1004
    @gregorylyon1004 11 місяців тому

    Thanks for the heads up on working for Swift transportation. They sound like a really good company to start out driving for. I am going to truck driving school next month and I'm considering a good starter company to go with. My brother recommends Schneider. But I want to keep my options open

  • @hosway1448
    @hosway1448 2 роки тому +7

    I’m 50 years old and just getting started and Swift is my only choice for my area. I’m in the beginning stages right now but you answered a ton of questions I had. Good video 👍🏼

    • @easttexastrucker8242
      @easttexastrucker8242  2 роки тому +1

      I’m glad I could help man. That is the exact reason I made this video. What sort of options do you have?

    • @hosway1448
      @hosway1448 2 роки тому +2

      @@easttexastrucker8242 Swift will pay for my schooling at a local to me truck driving school. I just had my drug test done 2 days ago and now waiting to hear back.

  • @DanielGarcia-zz9eg
    @DanielGarcia-zz9eg 3 роки тому +9

    Glad u moved on to better pay.
    Thats how u do it. Keep moving up

  • @williamcook6079
    @williamcook6079 3 роки тому +7

    Definitely good to know what's in store, I was thinking of going with swift

    • @easttexastrucker8242
      @easttexastrucker8242  3 роки тому +3

      They are not a bad company to start out with by any means. It’s just a bit of a crapshoot whether you get a good trainer.

    • @armanitransport2604
      @armanitransport2604 3 роки тому

      Just take your when get on the and everything will work out. ✌🏾

    • @Olesnapper
      @Olesnapper 3 роки тому +1

      Get in where you fit in driver good luck

  • @EasyIsHere
    @EasyIsHere 2 роки тому +1

    Nice vid G

  • @AllanONeal-yw4ly
    @AllanONeal-yw4ly 6 місяців тому

    Hey brother, I worked for swift in the 90's, but not for long. They weren't my first trucking job. I haled tomatoes in the California fields. I did good with that but I found out I had to long haul for 2 years before I could get a local job. My problem with swift was, when I got through withy trainer, they put me in a 2 axle Volvo and I mainly pulled doubles, but that wasn't the problem, that Volvo had no power, it took me over 2 days to get across Texas on I-10. It had no power at all. And I told them the tomato trucks, pulling doubles had way more power then their trucks. They had the govenors turned way down and in those days, mileage payed 21 cpm. I quit because I couldn't make money and I had a family to take care of. I had my CDL when I got there. And I've talked to CD England and they want me to get my commercial permit before I get there. The laws are quite different then when I was a driver. The Manuel is ridicules. I need to do it the way I did it before, in a classroom. With swift help with that part too? Let me know

  • @brianburlingame3684
    @brianburlingame3684 2 роки тому +1

    Very good presentation! Liked what was pointed out about becoming only a mentor as the the total job/career with just months of experience, with equipment,conditions, and variables etc. that would take more time than just months to be comfortable with. Also was impressed with your quick detailed explanation of pros and cons to the whole thing. In my opinion that's how one knows there is reality to what is said. Thanks for the well done presentation!

    • @easttexastrucker8242
      @easttexastrucker8242  2 роки тому

      It’s easier to present about stuff you have from experience. Glad you found it informative

    • @kitt199546
      @kitt199546 Рік тому

      @@easttexastrucker8242 Question, do the microphones always record? Like even when your sleeping and such?

    • @easttexastrucker8242
      @easttexastrucker8242  Рік тому

      @@kitt199546 No they do not. Unless you have your own dash cam set up that way. I do believe some will record audio if they are triggered by an event. You would have to check with your company on that though

    • @kitt199546
      @kitt199546 Рік тому

      ​@@easttexastrucker8242 Thanks for the info, quick question, I tried to call Swift recruitment and the lady was real rude telling me that they don't hire below Orlando or Tampa, since I live in Vero Beach, I don't qualify. Any idea if thats true? It was a kick in my stomach as I really wanted to come work for them.

    • @easttexastrucker8242
      @easttexastrucker8242  Рік тому +1

      @@kitt199546 A lot of companies do not hire out of south Florida because they don’t have freight heading down there. It’s nothing personal

  • @chefwillholland7608
    @chefwillholland7608 Рік тому

    Good job
    Man

  • @TruckerCarlson-i3s
    @TruckerCarlson-i3s 8 місяців тому

    6-7 weeks with the mentor, godayum!!

  • @dave-kp1vy
    @dave-kp1vy 3 роки тому +7

    there getting rid of Quucom, replacing with Zonar tablet that Knight has

  • @stoneyswolf
    @stoneyswolf 3 роки тому +8

    Over the road sucks I did it for four years when I first started back in 97. It's good for new driver you stay out of trouble for the most part but the sitting to be loaded or unloaded is BS. Go dedicated your in and out. Sometimes you get live unload and sit a little for those but that's mostly during the busy season. If your near NY city you can get a dedicated going into the city and get bonus pay every load. On a good week I'll make $1800 on an average week I'll make $1400. Not bad money and I'm at the point I don't even need gps I know all the customer locations which makes life less stressed. Your truck will do 67 of you didn't know just press the throttle twice to the floor for passing mode it last 30 minutes a day really comes in handy .

    • @easttexastrucker8242
      @easttexastrucker8242  3 роки тому +3

      Yep dedicated really is the way to go. I'll be doing a video on it this week. Been with this new company a little over a month now and its been great.

  • @tommyhanes4441
    @tommyhanes4441 3 роки тому +3

    Well that settled my mind. I'll stick with frac sand hauling.

    • @easttexastrucker8242
      @easttexastrucker8242  3 роки тому

      Definitely. Isnt there some oil company paying 14k a week for frac sand haulers in Texas? It was all over the news a few weeks ago. Or is it bullshit?

  • @1roundleft821
    @1roundleft821 2 роки тому

    Lancaster was my home terminal too. Back then (2013) there was A LOT of weirdos walking those grounds.

  • @brianlambTN
    @brianlambTN 3 роки тому +3

    Recruiter told me that the trucks utilized an opti system, instead of an APU. Thought it was similar but sounds like it isn’t at all.

    • @easttexastrucker8242
      @easttexastrucker8242  3 роки тому +1

      Yeah the OPTI system is just to manage idle time. So it will cut the truck on/off to keep it at the temp you set

  • @patrickmchenry2217
    @patrickmchenry2217 2 роки тому +2

    Cool video. How do you plan your bio breaks? I’ve heard of pee bottles that litter some freeways. Do you get enough exercise while on the road? I think the health aspect is what I’m concerned about. Any suggestions?

    • @easttexastrucker8242
      @easttexastrucker8242  2 роки тому +2

      I usually go to the bathroom when I stop for fuel, otherwise a large bottle is your friend. If you’re solo you can keep yourself in shape if you are disciplined. If you’re team driving it’s near impossible unless you eat very little

  • @Astrafigura
    @Astrafigura 2 роки тому +2

    Do they send you hard to drive area when you just become a solo? Can you refuse if so?

  • @maxxw7327
    @maxxw7327 2 роки тому +3

    7 weeks is a long time to spend in a cab with a stranger. I'm in trucking school and I'm dreading the mentor ride-along.

    • @easttexastrucker8242
      @easttexastrucker8242  2 роки тому

      You can do it. It’s worth it. And hopefully you get a mentor who will actually try to teach you some things and prepare you for the obstacles you will face when you go solo instead of just using you to make money as so many “trainers” do at mega carriers.

    • @poppatello
      @poppatello Рік тому

      This is my issue as well. I haven’t started yet but worried about riding with a trainer. One company I talked to said they go out 10-12 days at a time two or three times. I think I can live with that.

    • @maxxw7327
      @maxxw7327 Рік тому +1

      @@poppatello I ended up doing training with a trainer and another trainee. Three guys cramped in a truck, it was brutal. The other trainee ended up quitting after 5 or 6 days because of the living conditions. I stuck it out and my trainer approved me after 12 days then I got put in my own truck. He didn't teach me any backing maneuvers so once I was put in my own truck, I had to learn everything myself. That was a rollercoaster of an experience.

  • @williamhahs1586
    @williamhahs1586 3 роки тому +2

    Keep your inbox and outbox as cleared as possible. These qualcomms have shit for memory. I found keeping as little saved on it as possible helps

    • @easttexastrucker8242
      @easttexastrucker8242  3 роки тому

      I found out the other day why the Qualcomm system is so slow at processing messages. They were still using an 80s IBM IS 400 mainframe computer in their data center. ZONAR may be buggy but at least it uses modern tech

    • @TommyApel
      @TommyApel 3 роки тому +1

      @@easttexastrucker8242 AS/400 it's called and it is not a mainframe it's an Application Server usually used to host Lotus Domino groupware setups or custom build Jave EE applications, a total relic by modern standards but very much still in use around the world especially in government/state sites and banking. They are basically a workgroup server in terms of how they were used as they were not really able to do much more than one thing at a time unlike modern workgroup servers which can do a ton of different things but they were also fractions of the cost of a mainframe and they only took up 1 rack footprint.

    • @easttexastrucker8242
      @easttexastrucker8242  3 роки тому

      @@TommyApel Interesting!

    • @TommyApel
      @TommyApel 3 роки тому

      @@easttexastrucker8242 Yep, there is a ton of history behind those AS/400 systems, pretty interesting if you're into the history of computing.

  • @Plo_0817
    @Plo_0817 2 роки тому +1

    Where can you find your pay stub at? I’m going through swift as a starter

  • @dannyjimenez6559
    @dannyjimenez6559 3 роки тому +1

    Thanks for the video, I've been with Swift for 10 months. The only raise I got was the company wide raise to .41cents. should I say something to my driver leader? Just about everything you said was true, I guess it's a little different for me because I make at least a thousand more times than not.

    • @easttexastrucker8242
      @easttexastrucker8242  3 роки тому +2

      Are you OTR? I got to 41 cents after 3 months and then 45 cents at 6 months

  • @qwentonparks4736
    @qwentonparks4736 3 роки тому +1

    Im going to the academy soon already got my permit and going to do the schooling soon over at kansas city

    • @easttexastrucker8242
      @easttexastrucker8242  3 роки тому +4

      You got this man. For the backing just remember whichever way you turn the wheel the end of the trailer goes the opposite way

  • @janmccarty7150
    @janmccarty7150 3 роки тому +1

    Stack up the cash get your year in drop swift chase the cash .

  • @neilbradley6571
    @neilbradley6571 2 роки тому

    I believe its your outlook on the situation. I you think it miserable then its prob gonna be

  • @brianreinhardt7907
    @brianreinhardt7907 2 роки тому +1

    I want to know if anyone has ever experienced "phantom braking" when you go under a sign and the driver assist system freaks out, oh and don't forget ice. Edit: spelling

  • @veracityseven
    @veracityseven 2 роки тому +5

    Swift paid for my CDL in 2001, I ran with them for 18 months. The loads were generally terrible, I was out 4 weeks at a time, minimum, sometimes as long as 7 weeks. The directions to get to shippers and receivers were wrong 60% of the time (things have changed since then with GPS, but who knows). No personal connection with the mega dispatch system. You were seriously just a number that moved from point A to point B. When I quit, I had only turned down one load, had never been late, and accident free, but the experience soured me from driving. It's been 15 years now, however, and I'm going back into the trucking business, I hope it's changed. Swift will not be an option. Even with my lack of current driving experience I have had over 25 companies contact me to drive for them, so the opportunity is out there. For a lot of carriers, their insurance requires a minimum of 3 months recent driving, but companies are desperate for drivers. So, don't allow yourself to stay with a company that you are unsatisfied with!

  • @jacobsanchez9815
    @jacobsanchez9815 3 роки тому

    Did you have trouble getting home time?

  • @mellis920
    @mellis920 2 роки тому +1

    Thank god I did Top Gun out of the Swift Academy it cuts that mentor time down to a week and half

  • @albetherechillin
    @albetherechillin 3 роки тому +1

    Thanks man

  • @Smith-qt4us
    @Smith-qt4us 3 роки тому +1

    Is their GPS systems work fine or do I need to buy a Garmin? What do you use and is most shipper and receiver easy to find?

    • @easttexastrucker8242
      @easttexastrucker8242  3 роки тому

      While I was there they used Omnitracs. It did the job but its certainly not the best navigation system. However Swift is now in the process of switching over to a new system called ZONAR. I have no idea how good it is.

    • @fakename_mtg8976
      @fakename_mtg8976 3 роки тому

      The Zonar navigation doesn’t work well for me. I’m installing my Garmin in a few days. I’ve had to rely on google way too often.

  • @Astrafigura
    @Astrafigura 2 роки тому +1

    I’m a hot sleeper so during summers I can’t sleep without AC on. How do you sleep in that truck during summer? If they don’t let you idle your truck?

    • @easttexastrucker8242
      @easttexastrucker8242  2 роки тому +2

      I was the same way. As long as you’re running good it shouldn’t be a problem. At the end of the day I’m going to take care of me if they have a problem then so be it

  • @triciad4225
    @triciad4225 2 роки тому +1

    What should I do.. I've made up my mind 2 do team driving, I'm not sure about the process and the expense of everything

    • @easttexastrucker8242
      @easttexastrucker8242  2 роки тому

      Make sure you team with someone you trust. Otherwise I would do solo. You can get your CDL at no cost if you go through a CDL academy program such as Swift

  • @WPSilkClassic1348
    @WPSilkClassic1348 3 роки тому +1

    I’m in east Texas also. Been looking into joining Swift. Did you go to the Corsicana academy site?

    • @easttexastrucker8242
      @easttexastrucker8242  3 роки тому

      Yep I did my instructor was Charlie. Highly recommend him

    • @WPSilkClassic1348
      @WPSilkClassic1348 3 роки тому

      @@easttexastrucker8242 nice I just noticed training time isn’t compensated though that might be a strain for finances lol

  • @tfortexas5098
    @tfortexas5098 Рік тому

    Are you still with Swift?

  • @ginnyroy241
    @ginnyroy241 2 роки тому +1

    I think they probably don't allow cats is because if a cats messes , their urine is very difficult to remove, that camera thing seems like an invasion of privacy even just recording what you say.

  • @DigitxlRxse
    @DigitxlRxse 10 місяців тому

    Company or lease ?

  • @trevolution05
    @trevolution05 2 роки тому

    Hey buddy greetings from illinois!
    I want to join swift to start my career, I already have my CDL, can you recommend the trainer? I’m dead scared of getting an a****le as a trainer. 🤘

  • @CaptainRew
    @CaptainRew 10 місяців тому

    whats a "34"?

  • @eurostep2530
    @eurostep2530 2 роки тому +3

    I noticed each person that gives their view on trucking has a “low light” about the industry and I honestly don’t blame them man. It’s a industry that has people that don’t want to be there but there to handle whatever financial obligations they have. It’s 100% depressing. It has to be other starter careers out there that can be fulfilling. Trucking may offer lots of money but from all the videos I’ve watched from UA-camrs and their reviews man it’s a sad story. Basically doing a job you don’t want to do but have to…sheesh that’s definitely a tough and depressing pill to swallow. I’m in school right now and no one wants to go OTR it’s 30 students in my class and no wants to go OTR NOBODY. Everybody wants LOCAL but local is just as brutal.

    • @easttexastrucker8242
      @easttexastrucker8242  2 роки тому +5

      I did not get into trucking for the money. I got into trucking because I was sick and tired of regular 9-to-5 jobs and I couldn’t do it anymore. So I was looking for something else something different outside the normal jobs that are available to someone my age with no degree. And I happened upon Trucking. It seemed interesting, challenging, And the idea of having a skill and getting better at some thing was very enticing to me as well as getting to see the country. I did not know what truck drivers made when I came into this industry. However my frame of reference is different than many that are trying to get into trucking. I lived at home and I did not have to pay for many expenses and so I I didn’t have the pressure that many do to take care of the family in and pay a mortgage and that kind of thing which gave me a lot of freedom to pursue some thing. Now two years later from when I started my journey becoming a truck driver my life has completely turned around. I have more money than I ever thought would be possible to have at this point saved up I’ve been able to take care of the loved ones around me and I have a lot more years in my life not worrying about money. Outside of dealing drugs I don’t think there’s any career one can do that you can go from making nothing to six figures in two years. No I’m not saying that that’s going to happen for everyone but it is possible. Of course there were challenges along the way there were bumps in the road but I was determined to make it work because it seemed like a great way To make something of myself in a way that I never imagined. All the best and I hope you find what you’re looking for.

    • @eurostep2530
      @eurostep2530 2 роки тому +2

      @@easttexastrucker8242 That’s a good story man thanks and much luck to you as well. I’m still shocked that not one person wants to go over the road in my class of 30 people. I have a 3 year old so for me personally OTR isn’t a option. I can dedicated/regional at most. Local is the most likely option. But yea everyone has the “Why” as long as you are comfortable with your position that’s all that matters.

    • @easttexastrucker8242
      @easttexastrucker8242  2 роки тому +2

      @@eurostep2530 Definitely understand you wanting to be able to be home for your 3 yr old. Depending on where you live there may be tons of local/regional options or none at all. Any idea what your options are yet?

    • @eurostep2530
      @eurostep2530 2 роки тому +2

      @@easttexastrucker8242 I’m currently in school until June so that’s 6 months after I get my CDL I plan on going into Food Service for a year at McLane. After that year I’m going to join either Schenider on a dedicated account or JB Hunt on a regional account. The light concern for me is I don’t what to study to get my permit.

    • @tmo.48
      @tmo.48 2 роки тому +2

      @@eurostep2530 pick up a cdl handbook from BMV first and read it well and fill in the blanks at end of chapters. Then get on UA-cam and look for all the cdl practice tests for your state and go over them repeatedly until you know all the answers in your head. Practice stopping behind white lines and coming to complete stops, also learn to keep both hands on steering wheel because those things are major in truck school.

  • @jessicastanfield8975
    @jessicastanfield8975 3 роки тому +1

    Crazy community college CDL program is $2900 but covered by financial aid

    • @easttexastrucker8242
      @easttexastrucker8242  3 роки тому

      Yep depends one where you live but there are some really great alternatives to going through a mega to get your CDL

  • @BackRoadStoneRevival
    @BackRoadStoneRevival 2 роки тому

    How often did you get to come home during your 7 week mentorship? Or did you?

    • @easttexastrucker8242
      @easttexastrucker8242  2 роки тому +1

      I didn’t get to go home while with my mentor. Our situation was a bit unique because I was training on the Katy,TX Academy account so I did a reset every week in a hotel while my mentor went home for the weekend. Typically it shouldn’t take 7 weeks but because of the pandemic hitting while I was in training freight was moving slow.

    • @BackRoadStoneRevival
      @BackRoadStoneRevival 2 роки тому

      @@easttexastrucker8242 So you got hotel breaks alone out of the truck. That’s cool. Thanks for the info man

  • @MrBmelo1982
    @MrBmelo1982 3 роки тому +7

    ‼️I start April 19th I switched from CRST to Swift today for CDL training in CA ,FONTANA I can't wait about how much money you maid when you trained & with your mentor ❓

    • @easttexastrucker8242
      @easttexastrucker8242  3 роки тому +4

      You made a good choice man. I have not heard good things about CRST. I made $450 a week when I was with my mentor. At the time I got my CDL with Swift they were not paying while you were at school.

    • @MrBmelo1982
      @MrBmelo1982 3 роки тому +1

      @@easttexastrucker8242 thank you

    • @stoneyswolf
      @stoneyswolf 3 роки тому +2

      I made 800 a week with my mentor but I was running just wanted to get it done.

  • @troywilliamsWilliams-wl2ym
    @troywilliamsWilliams-wl2ym Рік тому

    You still with swift

  • @dave-kp1vy
    @dave-kp1vy 3 роки тому +1

    Swift whats to be the Safest company out there, to many people showing youtube videos off Swift Accidents

    • @mikebastoni4490
      @mikebastoni4490 3 роки тому +2

      Swift is the biggest mega carrier out there 18k trucks so more problems

    • @jdm1039
      @jdm1039 3 роки тому +2

      dave - Not to mention many of those videos regurgitate the same incidents. Look at some of those trucks in the videos. They are years old.

  • @deeray4974
    @deeray4974 2 роки тому

    This may be a stupid question but plz tell me when training that we not sleeping in the damn truck with the mentor?

    • @easttexastrucker8242
      @easttexastrucker8242  2 роки тому

      You each get your own bed. After the first week if you do well you will start team driving. One sleeps one drives

    • @poppatello
      @poppatello Рік тому

      Damn, u guys were team driving?!?! That mentor made a kick ass killing while you only made 450…😮

  • @kellypatterson8506
    @kellypatterson8506 3 роки тому +4

    Think they allow a comodo dragon:)

  • @cwc8979
    @cwc8979 2 роки тому +3

    What’s the best starter company to go too for my CDL training school? I’m single no kids no bills except for my cell phone. I’m fixing to get into Trucking and stack money and live in my Truck. What’s your thoughts man since you been Trucking for awhile 👍

    • @easttexastrucker8242
      @easttexastrucker8242  2 роки тому +2

      If you can get it at a local community college or privately owned CDL school in your area I would try that first. Otherwise check out some companies nearby where you live some of them will pay for you to get a CDL. I would only go to a mega as a last resort.

    • @cwc8979
      @cwc8979 2 роки тому +1

      @@easttexastrucker8242 Thanks man, I will try and see at my local community college and see if I can get a grant. I’m not going to pay for my CDL training school when these mega carriers will pay for it if I stay one year. Do you know how I should go about trying to get it for free like a grant at my local community college? Thanks for helping

    • @easttexastrucker8242
      @easttexastrucker8242  2 роки тому +3

      @@cwc8979 I’m telling you bro if at all possible do not get it done through a mega. You want to have the freedom to leave if they don’t take care of you. I had to pay 2,500 to leave 2 months early on my contract. Contact your states work commission and your local community colleges. They usually have programs set up to pay for your CDL training at a certified school.

    • @cwc8979
      @cwc8979 2 роки тому +1

      @@easttexastrucker8242 Thanks man, I will check on that 👍

  • @Smith-qt4us
    @Smith-qt4us 3 роки тому +3

    were you making at least 1k a week before taxes and all that?

    • @easttexastrucker8242
      @easttexastrucker8242  3 роки тому +1

      I was for the first 5-6 months. After that It was more like 750-800

    • @Smith-qt4us
      @Smith-qt4us 3 роки тому

      @@easttexastrucker8242 wow that sounds pretty bad hopefully I can make more going dedicated after a few months

    • @easttexastrucker8242
      @easttexastrucker8242  3 роки тому

      @@Smith-qt4us if you can get on a good dedicated account near you I would strongly consider it. OTR can be great in the summer but man it sucks when winter hits

    • @Smith-qt4us
      @Smith-qt4us 3 роки тому

      @@easttexastrucker8242 they do have target dedicated where I live but it’s teams pays around $1100 1200 weekly so you think that difference from solo otr to that is worth teaming?

    • @easttexastrucker8242
      @easttexastrucker8242  3 роки тому

      @@Smith-qt4us unless you really need the money I wouldn’t. Teaming is a way different lifestyle.

  • @beatrizmartinez9514
    @beatrizmartinez9514 2 роки тому +1

    BECARFULL FOR NEW DRIVERS The school was Ok, the mentor was good, but after the graduation, they promise for inexperience driver at least 1000 per week, but if they complete 5 days of work and gets what, the dispatchers are sure the drivers get stock with no trailer, wrong directions, no answer the phone, anyway they do everything for doesn't give you the 5 days driving and the
    inexperience
    drivers get paid no more than 400 a week which means you have to sleep in the truck for 2 o 3 days with no paid, no decent conditions for less than 400. is been 2 weeks and it's been the same situation week after week. That's the way Swiff transportation makes money?

  • @mikebastoni4490
    @mikebastoni4490 3 роки тому +4

    Swift definitely low pay its a starter company nothing more. I'm sitting back at swift waiting for my 1 year. I'm on shuttle express

  • @victorhardin2186
    @victorhardin2186 3 роки тому +2

    How old are you

  • @dumpjeep
    @dumpjeep 2 роки тому +2

    Wait, there's someone listening to you? I'd rather have a camera pointed at me and no audio. That's too bizarre to have someone eavesdropping on you.

  • @dave-kp1vy
    @dave-kp1vy 3 роки тому +3

    companies that pay more per mile you will get less miles per month or week, do to the freight they haul, like Crete, companies that pay a little less per mile your'll drive more miles on average, so at the end of the year it will come out about the same, you want a companies that has lots of drop and hook , nice terminals and and can get you home easier, this will depend on where you live, most companies say we hire in all 48 states, WELL tell them South Dakota or Montana see what i mean, whats there traffic lanes, hope this helps

    • @easttexastrucker8242
      @easttexastrucker8242  3 роки тому +1

      The company I’m at now I haven’t gotten less than 2k miles a week and lowest pay check was well over 1k. Making 55 cpm. I can count on one hand the number of times I made over 1k a week at Swift in an entire year. I just could not get the miles

  • @mickeyhammons426
    @mickeyhammons426 3 роки тому

    Wears the cat?

  • @davidanderson-22
    @davidanderson-22 2 роки тому

    Thank god for the ELDT. Getting trained by someone who doesn't even really know what's going on either is some form of insanity.

    • @dblock8645
      @dblock8645 2 роки тому

      How was the ELDT part and does it help

  • @akusitaaiai2215
    @akusitaaiai2215 3 роки тому +1

    Bro, you must find a big Russians owned company. They are paying more than others.

  • @user-Heyman1957
    @user-Heyman1957 2 роки тому

    I drove for an auto carrier company 30 years ago.
    Trucking companies shall provide a credit card to cover all trucking costs.
    If a driver has to pay out of his pocket for anything?
    That trucking company needs to pay interest back as well as what the driver paid for such incident.
    I quit that damn job. The owners nephew was getting the Cadillac runs. He had two months. I drove all over the country and make a lousy $600. While clown boy made 3000 in 4 days.
    same everywhere you go. The dispatchers are the worst people that I can ever think of in an occupation. Grifters. They lie over the phone they lied to your face and they do it with a smile.
    I’m glad I chose an occupation that I can go home every night to. I retired now. Trucking is for somebody that wants to see the country that can’t afford to. Don’t ever become an owner operator. 1/10 make out like a bandit. The other 90% make less than minimum wage. When those diesels have to be rebuilt as some serious money. A brake job on a tractor is some serious money.
    Merry Christmas bro good luck to your career, man. ☮️

  • @truckerghost4054
    @truckerghost4054 3 роки тому +2

    Just my opinion think you have to put more information about how many miles you ran a week and how many hours you in the sleeper sounds pretty confusing what you saying Typically if you are otr driver and you not consistent with your time they not gonna to give that driver the loads gotta talk to your DM this is not about making friends it's about making money

    • @easttexastrucker8242
      @easttexastrucker8242  3 роки тому +1

      My first 4-5 months I had plenty of miles and ran pretty well. After that started getting crappy runs. I had a good trainer and learned how to run my clock. But when you get 300-400 mile day runs that force you to sit when you could be running you’re not making as much money as you could. That’s ultimately one of the main reasons I left Swift. They plan you like you’re a 1st day driver. Delivery windows are way too long, you’re only planned 1 load at a time. Just really limits your options.

    • @truckerghost4054
      @truckerghost4054 3 роки тому +1

      @@easttexastrucker8242 There's something wrong there I've been here for 7 months now solo i get plan 2 or 3 loads is called a stack My 1st month and a 1/2 their planning me like that like you saying But I called my DM and turn on specifically how many miles I wanna running week and I hear play games basically what I told him Gotta remember guys he works for you you don't work for him

    • @truckerghost4054
      @truckerghost4054 3 роки тому

      @@easttexastrucker8242 There was times that they give me loads that Iran especially to Walmart and you can't deliver early so I had to T call it or they pay me $200 for that day plus the T call because his waste of my time

    • @easttexastrucker8242
      @easttexastrucker8242  3 роки тому +4

      @@truckerghost4054 Congrats man I’m glad your doing with your DM but not everyone has the same DM. Swift has over 20k drivers no one is going to have the same experience. I’ve moved on to a much better company that treats me way better, pays me more, gets me home every week, better trucks and my life has been way better since I left Swift.

    • @truckerghost4054
      @truckerghost4054 3 роки тому

      @@easttexastrucker8242 Good thats what's important go for it my man 💪

  • @yankeedoodledandeefirecrac7518
    @yankeedoodledandeefirecrac7518 2 роки тому

    please speak quicker!! I'm falling asleep....

  • @garfield8900
    @garfield8900 Рік тому

    Could not get through the video, ahh, ahh, ahh, ahhhhh….. if your going to do public speaking learn proper grammar please!
    This is not an insult but rather education.

  • @livedoom
    @livedoom 6 місяців тому

    my mentor was a tech illiterate boomer who spent the whole time yelling at me and the qualcom for missing every exit. The worst part was breaking chains and getting off in a colorado mountain pass in the middle of a blizzard to remove the broken chains and then rechain up because he was too stubborn to check the noise.