How To Choose The Right Trucking Company
Taking a new step in your career is daunting. Often, it includes the challenge of finding a company that will fit your specific needs. With trucking, there is a wide range of companies to work with in the industry. To help narrow down your search, here are some pointers for drivers on how to choose a trucking company based on the factors most important to you.
Major Factors You Should Research
While there isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution to determine what is the best trucking company to work for, there are certain considerations to factor into your decision. Before signing a contract with a single trucking company, CDL drivers should thoroughly research their options and go over:
1. Pay and Benefits
While basing your decision solely on pay or the amount of a sign-on bonus is a mistake, it’s still a crucial factor. The majority of over-the-road (OTR) trucking jobs pay per mile. You need to decide if sacrificing a few cents per mile is worth the other potential benefits. If planning to stay in this vocation, consider finding a strong benefits package which can support you well into the future.
Many companies are willing to invest in their employees by offering comprehensive insurance coverage, retirement plans, paid time off and more. Doing so demonstrates they have good values and have made a commitment to the most important asset: their employees.
2. Company Culture and Values
Speaking of values, it’s wise to compare the standards of the companies when sifting through your options. That way, you could find one with principles that align with your own. For instance, certain companies prioritize or offer perks to support a healthy work-life balance, such as allowing animal companionship. To get a better look at the culture than just reading online, you may want to speak with current as well as former drivers.
3. Home Time
Drivers spend a significant amount of time on the road. A lot of companies understand the strain this can cause and, therefore, offer more lenient home time policies. As these policies can vary greatly by organization, it’s best to get a clear outline before deciding. If you have a growing family or other reason to be home as much as possible, you may want to consider a local or regional position instead of OTR.
4. Retention Rate
Another way to gauge if a company is right for you is to compare retention rates. If a company is good to work for, employees will stay longer. High retention rates, where drivers stay with the company for decades, can be a pretty strong indicator of overall employee satisfaction. Likewise, looking up safety and security policies could help narrow down the list of companies who have made employee satisfaction their number one focus.
5. Equipment Quality
Whether you just got your CDL or have been an operator for years, it can make a big difference having a modern vehicle and high-quality equipment to work with. Companies of all sizes are investing in new fleets with high-tech features. These features could not only enhance your comfort, but your safety as well. As you’ll be behind the wheel a lot, you need a truck — and trucking company — you can trust.
Get Your Career in Driving Back on the Road
Hopefully this insight has you pointed in the right direction. As you move forward in your search, you should strongly consider working for GP Transco. We prioritize client and employee satisfaction, safety and taking a modern approach to the industry. Follow the link or reach out today to learn more about what we can do for you or your business.