Choosing the best trucking company to work for is a big decision. It’s one that you will need to research and put thought into to ensure you are happy with the decision you make. The good news is that there are a number of steps you can take to help you make up your mind.
In this article, we will take a look at 11 essential steps for finding a trucking company that best fits your needs. By the end, you will have a better idea of what to look for and what questions to ask to make sure you find the right company.
1. Define Your Needs
The first step is to define your needs. Think about things like the type of driving you want to do, the types of trucks you want to drive, and any other preferences you have. Once you know what you need and want, you can start looking for the right trucking company. It’s also important to think about what kind of lifestyle you want while working for a trucking company. For example, some trucking companies offer more flexible schedules than others. It’s also important to consider what type of relationships you want to build with other drivers and management.
2. Do Your Research
Once you know what you’re looking for, it’s time to do your research. Start by looking for trucking companies that fit your needs. An excellent place to start is online. Look for websites and forums that talk about the trucking industry. See what others have to say about different companies. It’s also important to take advantage of resources like the website of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. They have useful information such as safety ratings and other critical details. These ratings give you an indication of how safe a trucking company is and how they operate.
3. Check if the Company is Registered and Licensed
After you’ve done some research, it’s important to check if the company is registered and licensed. Each trucking company should have a valid operating permit, which gives them the right to do business and transport goods across state lines. You can check with the FMCSA to make sure the company is legal and in good standing. It’s also important to check if the company has any complaints or violations. They should have a clean record and a good safety rating. If the company has a high number of complaints or violations, look for another option because it’s not the best trucking company to work for.
4. Make Sure They Have the Right Type of Insurance
The next step is to make sure the company has the right type of insurance. Any reputable trucking company should have insurance that covers all of the drivers that work for them. It’s also important to make sure the company has the right type of liability insurance. This type of insurance is critical for protecting drivers in the case of accidents or other incidents. The company should also have cargo insurance, which covers the goods that drivers might be carrying.
5. Read the Reviews
It’s also important to read the reviews of different trucking companies. See what others have to say about their experiences with each company. You want to make sure you are getting quality service and that you are working with a reputable company. If the reviews are mostly negative, it’s best to avoid that company. But if they have a good number of positive reviews, then you know you’re in good hands.
6. Compare Rates
Compare rates between different companies. It’s likely that you will be able to find a number of different rates that fit your needs. Look at the rates they offer per mile, as well as any additional fees they might charge. The rates should reflect fair market value and should be competitive with other companies in the industry. It’s also important to consider things like bonuses and additional benefits, which can make a difference in the overall rate you’ll be paid.
7. Compare Services
Check on the services offered by different trucking companies. You want to make sure you are getting the most for your money, so look at the services offered by each company and compare them side by side. For example, some companies offer better maintenance and repair services than others. Others might have better customer service or better technology for tracking and communication.
8. Check companies’ Social Media
Social media can also be a great way to get an idea of what a company is like. Check out the company’s social media channels, such as Facebook and Instagram, to see what people are saying. Look at their posts and customer interaction to get a better sense of their service and reputation. Also, make sure to check any customer testimonials and reviews that the company has posted. These can give you a better idea of what it’s like to work with the company and how their customer service is.
9. Ask Around
Finally, it’s a good idea to ask around and get some first-hand experience. Reach out to friends and family who have worked in the trucking industry and see what they have to say. They may have had experiences with a particular trucking company and can give you their honest opinion. It’s also a good idea to reach out to truck drivers who work with a company you’re interested in. These drivers can give you a better idea of what it’s like to work for a particular company and can answer any questions you might have.
10. Make a List of Questions
Before you decide on a trucking company, it’s essential to make a list of questions so that you can get all the information you need. Ask questions about the company’s policies, how the drivers are treated, and how often they receive payment. You should also ask questions about safety and maintenance. What kind of safety programs does the company have in place? How do they maintain their trucks? These are all important questions to ask so you know that the company takes safety seriously.
11. Trust Your Gut
Ultimately, the decision of which trucking company to work for is personal. Once you’ve done your research, listened to what others have to say, and asked all the questions, it’s time to trust your gut. Go with your instincts and choose the trucking company that feels right for you.
If you are a truck driver looking for a promising career or a company that respects you and treats you as a contributing member of a big family, feel free to check out our open positions and apply.