To support Mental Health Awareness Month in May, J&R Schugel Trucking wraps a Kenworth T680 semi-truck to support the cause and promote awareness.
“We are living in unprecedented times and many are facing challenges that can be stressful, overwhelming and emotionally draining” says, Dan Denhof President/CEO. J&R Schugel chose to wrap a truck surrounding a topic that has had an impact on so many individuals and their families.
“This is our third truck wrap and it was inspired by the unique times we have all experienced over the last year and most importantly brought the topic of mental health awareness to all of us at Schugel. At J&R Schugel Trucking, our employees want to encourage those who are dealing with mental health issues and help reduce the stigma that may be associated with seeking help,” Denhof adds.
According to the National Institute of Mental Health, research shows that mental illnesses are common in the United States, affecting tens of millions of people each year and these numbers have only grown due to the COVID19 pandemic.
J&R Schugel plans to assign the unit to one of their professional truck drivers in the near future. If you or someone you know is in crisis, there are national hotlines available: The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800-273-8255, Crisis Text Line can be reached by texting NAMI to 741-741 or The National Domestic Violence Hotline can be reached at 800-799-7233. Remember, you are not alone.
If you have any questions about J&R Schugel or joining our team, please reach out to us today!
Click here to see how we're bringing awareness to Mental Health.
April 26, 2021 (Marshfield, WI) -- Roehl Transport will increase truck driver pay for a second time this year. These increases will add between $4,000 - $6,000 or more to most company drivers’ annual pay. The pay increases will be effective May 24th and apply to company drivers in Roehl’s Refrigerated, Flatbed, Van, Curtainside, and Dedicated Divisions.
“Because we’ve been adding driving teammates and winning new lanes from customers, we’re able increase our driving teammates’ pay,” said CEO Rick Roehl. “Our drivers are leaders in pay, productivity and safety, and our second increase in compensation reflects our commitment to Driver Success.”
Roehl’s Accident-Free Pay increase was effective in February. At that time, the company also announced a significant increase in home daily trucking jobs. Unlike most local trucking jobs, Roehl’s home daily jobs offer regional pay plans so Roehl drivers get a great combination of more pay and more home time.
The company is also increasing owner operator and lease operator compensation. On top of an excellent sliding mileage compensation package, owner operators and lease operators who partner with Roehl get B.O.S.S. benefits that include business advisors, a top fuel surcharge program as well as additional support.
As one of North America’s largest, safest and most successful trucking companies, Roehl Transport provides flawless transportation services to customers across the United States. The company employs experienced truck drivers and offers paid CDL training for people who want to be truck drivers with a variety of fleet and home time options such as national, regional and dedicated positions. More than half of Roehl drivers are home at least every week. The company also offers a lease purchase program for those who want to own their own trucking business.
For more information on truck driving jobs, owner operator opportunities or paid on-the-job CDL training with Roehl Transport, call 715-591-7050 or visit www.roehl.jobs.
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For media inquiries, contact Tim Norlin, Roehl Transport Vice President of Driver Employment at 715-591-7266.
CDL A Drivers - Looking for TOP PAY and WEEKLY home time? Join us this weekend for a hiring event to learn more! FREE PRIZES!
Location: Holiday Inn & Suites - Rock Run Convention Center, 1471 Rock Creek Boulevard, Joliet, IL 60431
Date & Time: Friday (4/30) 2pm – 7pm & Saturday (5/1) 12pm – 5pm
Free Raffle: All attendees will be entered into a raffle to receive free prizes
Can’t make it? No worries! Click here to apply or call 866-442-3310 to speak with a recruiter!
Visit us here to learn more!
CEDAR RAPIDS, IOWA – CRST The Transportation Solution, Inc. has announced the largest increase to its team driver pay package in company history. Aimed at achieving industry-leading pay, this change will increase CRST’s team over the road driver base earnings by over 30%.
Effective May 2nd, 2021, this pay increase will focus on ensuring that every over the road driver in the team fleet has a strong compensation package that grows quickly to match their experience and expertise. Experienced drivers can expect to earn $.60 CPM or more, and can quickly grow these earnings to $.85 CPM. In addition, new CDL holders will earn four increases within their first year, aggressively growing their base earnings by over 60% during this time, with eligibility to more than double their earnings after the first year.
“Our success starts with our drivers—they are fundamental to everything we do, and we are proud that our new pay package vaults CRST into the top tier of companies across the industry. Our drivers make us a leader in transportation and logistics, and they should get paid what they deserve.” said CRST's President & CEO Hugh Ekberg.
In addition to this significant driver pay increase, the CRST team over the road division continues to make program changes to increase driver career satisfaction. In 2020, they announced weekly home time opportunities, which are now available in 25 major markets across the US. The Health Sciences over the road fleet, known for their special handling of life saving medicines and the COVID vaccine, recently announced a pay increase that brings earning potential beyond $.80 CPM.
Across all divisions, CRST is offering many of their driving partners the option to choose increased home time packages, dedicated routes, and career opportunities as independent contractors. Professional drivers, at any stage of their career, can find the driving position and the support they deserve, for a long-term career at CRST.
For more information about the new payouts and programs, please contact: mediarequests@crst.com
About CRST The Transportation Solutions, Inc.
Cedar Rapids, Iowa–based CRST The Transportation Solution, Inc. is one of the largest privately held transportation companies in the United States. CRST provides a broad array of transportation solutions, including team expedited, flatbed, dedicated services, truckload capacity solutions, transportation management, high-value product white-glove services and big and bulky home delivery and installation. For more information, visit www.crst.com or call (800) 736-CRST (2778).
TransAm Trucking, Inc. recently announced a three cent-per-mile rate increase for both existing and new Independent Contractors. Independent Contractors with TransAm Trucking will now start at $1.07 per-mile loaded & empty. TransAm also recently implemented an accelerated rate increase for Independent Contractors with an increase of five cents-per-mile after the completion of six months of continuous service. Within six months, drivers’ businesses could be earning $1.12 per mile loaded & empty. This is on top of the many other business earnings bonus opportunities that TransAm offers their Independent Contractors.
“We are thrilled to implement a rate increase for those Owner-Operators who choose to contract their business with us,” said Pamela Caraway, Director of Recruiting at TransAm Trucking. “This is a well-deserved rate increase that recognizes drivers for their dedication and service.”
TransAm Trucking, Inc. was founded in 1987 and operates a fleet of over 1,000 tractors and over 1,900 trailers out of its headquarters in Olathe, Kansas. TransAm also maintains fully-staffed terminals in Rockwall, Texas and Tampa, Florida. TransAm Trucking offers over-the-road, regional, dedicated, and local driving positions.
November 25, 2020 (Salt Lake City, Utah) - Pride Transport, a family-owned and operated Utah-based carrier, recently announced a significant driver pay raise across the board. Effective Dec. 1, 2020, driver pay increases 4 cents per mile with an additional 4 cents per mile for two years as part of its $10,000 sign-on bonus payout.
“This is an exciting announcement,” said Steve Schelin, director of recruiting for Pride Transport Inc. “What does that mean for a driver coming to Pride Transport? It means our base pay rate is 45 to 47.5 cents per mile and then we add so many extras.”
Schelin says Pride Transport offers a $10,000 sign on bonus paid out over two years. “That may sound like a long time but it’s paid at $100 per week for two years – that’s the equivalent of another 4 cent-per-mile raise during that time!” he says.
The company also has an unbeatable 401(k) program that matches contributions by a whopping 20 percent. On top of base pay, the company offers drivers pay for layover, breakdown, and stops, plus guaranteed detention. Drivers also enjoy paid holiday and vacation time.
Company drivers at Pride Transport enjoy affordable healthcare plans and paid orientation. Pride Transport also has 100% no-touch refrigerated freight, state-of-the-art equipment, and pet and rider programs. For more information about a career with Pride Transport, visit www.driveforpride.com or call 800-GO-PRIDE.
About Pride Transport:
Pride Transport was founded in 1979 and is based in Salt Lake City, Utah. With over 450 units, Pride Transport provides OTR, Regional, Dedicated and local positions in its temperature controlled division. To learn more about driving opportunities available with Pride Transport, call the recruiting department at 800-714-4308 or visit the website at www.driveforpride.com.
TransAm Trucking, Inc. recently announced a pay increase for their long-haul company drivers and a rate increase for their independent contractors. Long-haul company drivers and independent contractors who have been employed or contracted with TransAm for at least six months received up to a 5 cents per mile increase. Drivers who have not been employed or contracted for at least six months will receive an increase after six months of continuous service.
“We want to show our gratitude to our noble drivers and accelerate our scheduled pay and rate increases for new drivers with TransAm.” said Pamela Caraway, Director of Recruiting at TransAm Trucking. “Our drivers have proven that they are essential to our country, and we are proud to work alongside some of the strongest individuals in the industry.”
Along with a pay and rate increase, TransAm Trucking has doubled the sign-on bonus to $5,000 for all driving positions. TransAm Trucking’s sign-on bonus pays out in four installments of $1,250 after the completion of 30, 60, 90, and 120 days. Once a driver receives their last installment of their sign-on bonus, TransAm offers a monthly driver retention bonus of $200 for company drivers and $250 for independent contractors. For more information, visit www.transamtruck.com.
TransAm Trucking, Inc. was founded in 1987 and operates a fleet of over 1,000 tractors and over 1,900 trailers out of its headquarters in Olathe, Kansas. TransAm also maintains a fully-staffed terminal, driver’s center and maintenance facility in Rockwall, Texas as well as a maintenance and orientation facility in Tampa, Florida. TransAm Trucking offers over-the-road, regional, dedicated, and local driving positions.
December 15, 2020 (Marshfield, WI) -- Roehl Transport has announced a sweeping pay increase for company drivers that will add thousands of dollars to their annual earnings.
CEO Rick Roehl revealed the driver pay increase on KC Phillip’s SiriusXM RoadDog Live radio program. “At Roehl, safety is synonymous with professionalism, and our drivers are leaders in safety, productivity and pay. So this increase to our accident-free pay reinforces our commitment to rewarding our professional truck drivers,” Rick Roehl said.
Roehl Transport has long been on the National Transportation Institute’s list of Top Paying Carriers, validating their reputation as the Take Home More, Be Home More trucking company. Roehl’s pay plan is performance-based, and Roehl company drivers earn accident-free pay as they drive. They do not have to wait until the end of the year or even the quarter. “This could increase our drivers’ compensation by $2,000-3,000 or more per year,” Rick Roehl added. The driver pay increase will be effective on February 1, 2021.
In addition to increasing truck driver pay, Roehl Transport has added more than 100 home daily truck driving jobs throughout Illinois, Indiana, Minnesota and Wisconsin. The new positions cater to experienced drivers who want to be home every day and weekends, too.
“We know that truck drivers are looking for local driving jobs because they want to be home more,” said Rick Roehl. “So we created additional positions that get drivers home every day. Many of these driving positions offer regional pay plans creating a great combination of more pay and more home time,” he added.
“Often experienced drivers take a pay cut to work a local driving job in their area – but not with these new positions,” Rick Roehl continued. “These drivers will average about 400 miles a day, working Monday through Friday, and they get home every day.”
As one of North America’s largest, safest and most successful trucking companies, Roehl Transport provides flawless transportation services to customers across the United States. The company employs experienced truck drivers and offers paid CDL training for people who want to be truck drivers with a variety of fleet and home time options such as national, regional and dedicated positions. More than half of Roehl drivers are home at least every week.
“During this peak shipping season, we’re open, hiring experienced drivers and training new drivers to meet the critical supply chain needs of our nation,” said Rick Roehl.
For more information on truck driving jobs or paid on-the-job CDL training with Roehl Transport, call 715-591-7050 or visit www.roehl.jobs.
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For media inquiries, contact Tim Norlin, Roehl Transport Vice President of Driver Employment at 715-591-7266.
EAGAN, MINNESOTA—Bay & Bay Transportation just gave drivers a great reason to both join the company and stay for the long haul.
Company leadership recently announced a driver pay increase effective December 7th that will provide great reward to both current and new drivers to Bay & Bay. Experienced drivers joining the carrier will now start at up to 0.58 cents/mile, while existing company drivers’ pay has been increased by 0.04 cents/mile across the fleet. Bay & Bay also has one of the top sign and drive lease to own opportunities in trucking! Lease drivers start at 70% of the revenue on the load and new/late model equipment is available (lease trucks are governed at 75 MPH).
In addition to the higher pay per mile, Bay & Bay is offering a $10,000 sign-on bonus for all company drivers joining its fleet.*
“Our drivers are the heartbeat of our organization,” said Sam Anderson, President and CEO. “We have seen over the past months how important our drivers are to keeping America open for business. It’s critical to offer a compensation package that makes this a career, not just a job.”
Known for its culture of strong values and safe working environment, Bay & Bay invites local and OTR drivers to become part of a 79-year tradition of excellence.
“Pay is just one piece of what we have to offer at Bay & Bay,” said Michael Blair, Driver Recruitment Manager. “Drivers also enjoy our state-of-the art facilities, modern equipment, and family culture. We can get you home and help make sure your family comes first.”
Bay & Bay’s respect for drivers shows up in their safety conscious culture, which led the Truckload Carriers Association to recognize Bay & Bay as the Safest Fleet by the for Division IV (25–49.99 million miles). Bay & Bay’s level of safety remains the gold standard in trucking.
Since 1941, Quality, Driven, and Tradition have been the pillars to the company culture at Bay & Bay Transportation. Truckers looking to start 2021 at a family-owned carrier with a great new compensation package can apply online at www.BayandBay.com.
*Some limitations and exclusions apply.
NEWS PROVIDED BY
Alex Lucas, AppVault
November 5th, 2020
Monroeville, Ala., [November 5th, 2020] - Hornady Transportation, LLC has announced its completed and successful operational merger with Builder’s Transportation Company, LLC (BTC), which went into effect October 1, 2020.
Both companies are part of Daseke, Inc., of Addison, Texas, the largest owner of flatbed, open-deck and specialty trucking capacity in North America. The merger was announced by Daseke in August 2019 as part of a company-wide operational plan.
Headquartered in Monroeville, Ala., Hornady has been in operation since 1925, with a familial legacy. Their terminal in Birmingham supports the building materials and steel industries east of the Rockies with the merger resulting in a second terminal in Memphis, Tenn.
The merger of BTC’s operations has enabled Hornady to further diversify their freight mix and double in size while strengthening their service of the building materials, steel, oil and gas industries with a fleet of 406 late-model tractors and 605 flatbed trailers.
In joining two companies with a combined service record of nearly 150 years, Hornady embraces a future of continued stability and growth as they further honor their commitment to quality and reliability.
The added freight mix has also allowed for additional capacity and added staff in Monroeville, expanding drivers’ career opportunities with Hornady as they continue to prioritize individual customer needs. Drivers can enjoy updated equipment, collaborative teams and unmatched support while making an impact within their communities and beyond.
“The merger goes beyond numbers. We’re bringing together two innovative organizations who have a shared vision and trust in one another. We look forward to the positive changes to come and value our team members’ support in this transition,” said Chris Hornady, CEO.
As such, Hornady’s mission remains - to succeed in operational excellence and provide industry-leading customer satisfaction.
About Hornady Transportation
Hornady Transportation builds lasting customer relationships through our pledge of professional and ethical business practices with customers, vendors and employees. We’re committed to continuous improvement of service, safety, and personnel while providing outstanding trucking careers for CDL Class A drivers.
DriveHornady.com
Kansas City, MO (October 21, 2020) After a record-breaking Fiscal Year, P&G is recognizing a few of our driver partners on the front lines delivering business, daily. Five nominated drivers now hold the title of Procter & Gamble “Driver of the Year.”
One of the five is Hogan Transport’s own Althea Thompson. Thompson began driving over the road with Hogan in 2011 and then made the switch to P&G in March 2012. When asked about her nearly ten-year relationship with Hogan, she said: “I stay with Hogan because when it comes down to family they understand you one hundred percent. When you need time off they give it to you. They take family time seriously.”
Each candidate received the nomination from a colleague who answered a series of selection criteria to make a case for their chosen employee. Thompson was nominated by her former dispatcher because he can trust that she gets the load there on time. “He told me I was involved and said he was going to put me down since I run P&G. I’m always involved with P&G. That’s all I know,” she said.
The qualifications ranged from number of shipments supporting P&G’s business to community service activities. Finalists were selected by leaders within Procter & Gamble North America Transportation Operations and Purchases organizations. Every individual nominated received at least a “Driver of the Year Nominee” certificate from P&G recognizing their hard work and contribution to the business.
Top Finalists were showcased formally during the Virtual Carrier Summit, “Charging Toward the Future Together,” held on October 14, 2020. As part of the Summit, P&G recognized a few, special carriers for excellent performance and partnership.
When asked about her victory, Thompson exclaimed, “I’m on cloud nine because I’ve never won anything before. I’m so excited. I’m enjoying it.”
The nearly tenured driver is known for being an integral part of developing Hogan’s relationship with P&G in the Kansas City area. With eight plus years of safe driving, 99.9% on time, 0 DOT recordable accidents, and 160 shipment YTD on P&G; Thompson was the obvious choice.
According to Thompson, she has consistently remained a faithful supporter of every P&G initiative. “I’ve went green with them. When they went green, I did the gas trucks. When they made a change, I did a change with them. I’ve always complied with changes,” she said.
With the upcoming summit on the horizon, Thompson is eager to attend. She has already received a gift card from Hogan and is looking forward to “the prize at the end of the rainbow.” When asked what’s next for the recent winner she said, “I’m with P&G for the ride. I’m cool. I’m the laid-back type of person. I’m here for the wave.”
We are Hogan Comprehensive Transportation. Straightforward Solutions.
Hogan is one of the largest, fastest growing, and most respected transportation service providers in the US. Founded in 1918, and proudly celebrating over 100 successful years in business, we’re a privately held company headquartered in St. Louis, MO.
Roehl Transport has announced a new program to add 300 truck driving jobs that will help CDL-A holders who stepped away from their commercial driving career for other non-driving employment. The Roehl Relaunch Program is open to former truck drivers who may have left trucking for positions in construction, manufacturing, retail and other industries as well as current drivers in local trucking jobs who may not be getting the income they need.
“As the coronavirus pandemic continues, many people are out of work. The economic impact on those families can be tremendous,” said Tim Norlin, Vice President of Driver Employment. “For all the former drivers seeking to relaunch their CDL careers, Roehl is prepared to help re-sharpen their driving skills while also recognizing their prior experience as a commercial vehicle driver.”
Drivers who complete the Relaunch program will be given credit for their prior experience rather than starting over at entry level driver pay rates. “The Roehl Relaunch Program creates additional driving opportunities – in time for the holidays – and demand for our services is at an all-time high as we enter the peak season for shipping” he continued.
Roehl is also rewarding current drivers through the 2020 Peak Season Bonus, which was announced in early October. Roehl company driving teammates will receive a 2020 Peak Season Bonus of $0.02 per mile for dispatched miles driven between October 18, 2020 and January 31, 2021.
By recognizing and rewarding driving teammates for the important work they do during this very busy time, Roehl lives up to its value of Driver Success. Creating the Roehl Relaunch Program also supports Driver Success by providing the care and solutions to help drivers meet their personals and professional needs.
The 2020 Peak Season Bonus for truck drivers also applies to new candidates seeking a truck driving job with Roehl, including those in the Roehl Relaunch Program. “No matter your experience level – from seasoned veteran to a former driver seeking to get back into trucking to someone looking to get your CDL, Roehl is a stable carrier that will support you,” Norlin commented.
Roehl Transport is one of North America’s safest, largest and most successful trucking companies, and more than half of Roehl drivers are home every week. In addition to the Roehl Relaunch Program and the Peak Season Bonus, earlier this year Roehl introduced Address-to-Address Practical Mileage, which more accurately reflect the miles Roehl drivers have driven on each load.
Roehl offers local driving jobs, home weekly regional and dedicated trucking jobs and national, over-the-road jobs with flexible home time. For more information on how you can Relaunch Your Career, visit www.Roehl.Jobs.
When it comes to life on the road, James is no stranger to the industry. He has been driving since 1998, with most of those years consisting of flatbed. \
“I’ve done a little bit of everything when it comes to driving, but I always end up coming back to flatbed,” he says.
James found his way to TMC in November 2013 after his wife sent him an application to apply to the company. “I was really interested in the trucks and the home time that was promised,” James says.
“This is one of the few companies I have worked for that is more family oriented than anything, and that’s really important to me.”
The Flint, TX, native moved into the training role shortly after starting with TMC. “When I was at other companies, I didn’t have the kind of training that TMC offers. I’ve been doing this for a while and I wanted to be that person who helps someone start a new career.”
James puts his trainees to work right away, but he keeps his style laid back and personable. “I try to get my guys out doing the job and learning as much as they can, but I like to keep it light and make sure I’m building good relationships with my trainees.”
So what is James’ favorite part of training?
“Always having someone else around to help with tarps!” he jokes. “But in all seriousness, seeing these guys make it to their own trucks. Getting that call and knowing that someone got their start because of the help you gave them is the most rewarding.”
Finally, James says he owes his success to him Trainer Coordinator, Jeremy Meyer, and Fleet Manager, Clint Pedersen. “This recognition really caught me by surprise, but it’s not just me out here. Jeremy and Clint both keep me running and are really the two people that make this possible for me.”
Driver trainers are vital to the TMC training department, and each month a trainer is chosen who demonstrates the outstanding qualities TMC looks for in a trainer. The Trainer of the Month recipient is chosen based on their safety record and the safety performance of their trainees, the number of drivers trained and the retention percentage of those drivers. Congratulations to our August 2019 Trainer of the Month, James Hawes!
About TMC
TMC Transportation is the nation’s largest employee-owned flatbed transportation company. TMC provides expert transportation services and supply-chain management solutions throughout the 48 contiguous states. Founded in 1972, TMC is headquartered in Des Moines, Iowa, and is known for its integrity, innovation, superior safety record and dedication to quality and customer service. The company’s claim-free, on-time delivery record is the best in the business and is consistently recognized by its customers.
Visit their website here, or see their jobs on SmartPhoneTrucker here.
Before joining the Black and Chrome in 2003, Anthony was working a job where he made tires. Craving a change of scenery and a new challenge to take on, he chose to enter the world of over-the-road trucking.
“I was going through training at a CDL school when a recruiter for TMC visited,” he says. “The company was just transitioning to Peterbilt trucks and they promised awesome home time, which were two appealing things for me.”
Although his love for the job came easy, the Panama City Beach native wasn’t sure that he would feel the same about training. “I was approached about it a couple of times, but I declined because I was nervous to try it out,” he says.
Now in his sixth year of training, Anthony is glad he took the leap of faith. “Getting to know someone new and showing them how TMC works has turned into another aspect of my job that I love.”
The camaraderie out on the road is something that also became more important to Anthony. “Some of my best friends are people that have been my trainees,” he says. “In fact, I have been a best man in two weddings for people I have trained.”
Anthony makes sure to focus on the basics when it comes to training. “You have to be aware of your surroundings and make sure you’re safe doing whatever it is you’re doing. As long as you keep the wheels spinning safely, you’ll find success.”
Over the road driving is a huge transition and shouldn’t be taken lightly. “Most guys get in the truck and doubt themselves,” says Anthony. “It’s my job to encourage them to keep going and keep learning.”
Finally, the relationships he has been able to develop with training coordinators and staff are some of the many reasons he plans to stick around. “I plan on retiring with TMC; I’m not going anywhere.”
Driver trainers are vital to the TMC training department, and each month a trainer is chosen who demonstrates the outstanding qualities TMC looks for in a trainer. The Trainer of the Month recipient is chosen based on their safety record and the safety performance of their trainees, the number of drivers trained and the retention percentage of those drivers.
Congratulations to our June 2019 Trainer of the Month, Anthony Leech!
About TMC
TMC Transportation is the nation’s largest employee-owned flatbed transportation company. TMC provides expert transportation services and supply-chain management solutions throughout the 48 contiguous states. Founded in 1972, TMC is headquartered in Des Moines, Iowa, and is known for its integrity, innovation, superior safety record and dedication to quality and customer service. The company’s claim-free, on-time delivery record is the best in the business and is consistently recognized by its customers. Visit them at www.tmctrans.com, or click here to see their jobs on SmartPhoneTrucker.
There’s aren’t many things more damaging to a Recruiting Department than a “We only want full applications” policy. It hurts EVERY part of the business, and here’s a story that will help illustrate why.
Imagine you are a bank and want to make loans. You run an ad and get two calls - Joe and Jane both want to borrow some money. Joe has terrible credit and is unemployed. Jane has perfect credit and a good job.
Your policy is that you won’t even talk to anyone about a loan until they come to the bank, wait in line, fill out a long application, and so on. Joe is perfectly willing to do this because he has major problems and will jump through any hoop to get a loan.
Jane – who has perfect credit and thousands of banks begging to loan her money – is not going to be interested in your bank. So you’ll have to sort through hundreds of applicants to make one loan. And more of your customers will leave without paying the loan off.
Now ask yourself … why on earth would a good driver who can have hundreds of job offers in 10 minutes ever let you force him/her to fill out a long-form application before you’ll even consider them?
I can think of one reason - if the driver is already sold on your company and isn’t even talking to anyone else. Good luck keeping your trucks filled from that applicant pool!
Forcing drivers to fill out a long-form application may sound like a great idea. But in reality, you end up with a tiny fraction of the leads you could get … mostly from worse drivers! Safety suffers. Customer service. And of course, Recruiting.
Any time you recruit for a job where the demand far outweighs the supply, it’s going to be hard work, and most importantly, a SALES job. Be sure to have the right pre-qualification questions on a short lead form. Prioritize based on that information and work those leads.
Happy Recruiting!
Check out this REGIONAL RUN from Hogan Transports!
When it comes to the TMC way of life, Blaine is no stranger. He started his professional driving career just over nine years ago in June 2010, and a life on the road became the ideal lifestyle he was looking for.
“After a long career in manufacturing, I wanted to find something new and a job my wife and I could do together,” he says. “TMC gave me that opportunity, and it seemed like the perfect fit."
Once the River Oaks, TX, native had two years of driving under his belt, he knew that training was the next step for him in his career.
“Everyone in the training department runs such a good program, and I believe it’s the best in the world,” he says. “Wanting to train came from loving TMC and wanting to help be a part of our continued success.”
His first trainee was actually his wife, Lisa, and they drove as a team for seven years. He trained on and off during this period, but when Lisa decided to go back to school, Blaine took on training full-time.
When it comes to his training style, Blaine does his best to be a friend and mentor out on the road. He shares his own triumphs and challenges that he has faced over the years, and works very hard to build great relationships with everyone.
One way he does this is by having them come up with a handle, or a nickname to go by. Blaine’s personal handle is “Captain Jelly Bean,” and some other names his trainees have gone by are: Hush Puppy (his wife’s handle), Wicker Man, Deputy Sunflower, Wild Alaska, Hammerhead and Mr. Positive.
“I take care of my trainees the best I can, just like TMC does for me,” he says. “Being a trainer has also made me a better driver, and I would recommend it to anyone who wants to do the same.”
Driver trainers are vital to the TMC training department, and each month a trainer is chosen who demonstrates the outstanding qualities TMC looks for in a trainer. The Trainer of the Month recipient is chosen based on their safety record and the safety performance of their trainees, the number of drivers trained and the retention percentage of those drivers. Congratulations to our May 2019 Trainer of the Month, Blaine Butts!
About TMC
TMC Transportation is the nation’s largest employee-owned flatbed transportation company. TMC provides expert transportation services and supply-chain management solutions throughout the 48 contiguous states. Founded in 1972, TMC is headquartered in Des Moines, Iowa, and is known for its integrity, innovation, superior safety record and dedication to quality and customer service. The company’s claim-free, on-time delivery record is the best in the business and is consistently recognized by its customers.
You can visit TMC's website here, or see their jobs on SmartPhoneTrucker here.
We’re proud to welcome McLeod Express to SmartPhoneTrucker!
DES MOINES, Iowa, May 29, 2019 – Paxton joined TMC in the second half of June 2015. After driving for six months at another employer and not getting the home time he was looking for, he started to look for other options. “TMC could give me everything I was looking for, so I applied and have loved it here ever since,” Paxton says.
After being a part of the Black and Chrome team for about two years, someone suggested to Paxton that they thought he would be a good trainer. “I decided to give it a shot,” he says. “I found that it was fun to teach new drivers how to do things the right way.”
When it comes to his training style, Paxton takes on an instructional, hands-on approach. “Everyone learns differently, but I like to be working right alongside my trainees and walking through instruction whenever needed.” He also adds that it is important to remember where he once started. “I try not to forget how far I’ve come in the industry and all of the questions I used to have; that’s my motto when training.”
The teaching aspect of training is Paxton’s favorite part of the job. “Securement is my favorite thing to teach,” he says. “I also enjoy the camaraderie that drivers share out on the road, along with continuing to meet new people and forming new relationships.”
As for advice for new trainees, the most important thing is to take things slow. “Flatbed trucking has an on-going learning curve, and you won’t become an expert overnight,” Paxton says. “There are a lot of people out there who have helped me along the way, and still continue to do so. Never be afraid to lean on others and ask for advice, even when you’ve been on the job or a while.”
Driver trainers are vital to the TMC training department, and each month a trainer is chosen who demonstrates the outstanding qualities TMC looks for in a trainer. The Trainer of the Month recipient is chosen based on their safety record and the safety performance of their trainees, the number of drivers trained and the retention percentage of those drivers. Congratulations to our April 2019 Trainer of the Month, Paxton Cottrell!
About TMC
TMC Transportation is the nation’s largest employee-owned flatbed transportation company. TMC provides expert transportation services and supply-chain management solutions throughout the 48 contiguous states. Founded in 1972, TMC is headquartered in Des Moines, Iowa, and is known for its integrity, innovation, superior safety record and dedication to quality and customer service. The company’s claim-free, on-time delivery record is the best in the business and is consistently recognized by its customers.
You can visit their website at www.tmctrans.com, or click here to see TMC's jobs on SmartPhoneTrucker.
DES MOINES, Iowa, May 6, 2019 – Sean’s journey with TMC began 10 years ago when he started Orientation in June 2009. Over-the-road truck driving wasn’t exactly the career path he had in mind for himself, but it has turned into a lifestyle that works well for him and his family.
“Before starting at TMC, the economy was bad and I was unemployed,” Sean says. “I couldn’t find a job in my field, which was accounting, so I decided to do what I never saw myself doing.”
While attending a local driving school, the Hudson, NC, native started researching different companies to see what was out there. “I heard TMC had really good training, and I wanted to be home on the weekends with my family,” he says. “TMC sounded like a good fit right away.”
After driving on his own for a year, Sean decided to take on the role of a Driver Trainer. “I’ve trained at other jobs before, and I always enjoyed showing people the ropes.”
Sean takes a very hands-on approach to training. “I try to get them behind the wheel as much as possible to work on their driving and backing skills,” he says. “With securement, I show them how I like things to be done and let them do one side of the load while I do the other, checking on them periodically.”
This approach has proven to work well for him. “I try not to overwhelm them with too much information. Once they get a feel for how things are done, I let them do the job and give any tips along the way if I notice anything.”
For both him and his trainees, Sean says that having patience is most important. “New drivers can’t be in too much of a hurry; this is where mistakes happen,” he says. “For me as a trainer, I have to remember that this is a learning experience for them and it’s different for everyone.”
As for his favorite part of the job, Sean had a quick answer for that. “I enjoy hearing from my former trainees about their accomplishments. It’s nice knowing that I helped them get their start and they are doing well.”
Driver trainers are vital to the TMC training department, and each month a trainer is chosen who demonstrates the outstanding qualities TMC looks for in a trainer. The Trainer of the Month recipient is chosen based on their safety record and the safety performance of their trainees, the number of drivers trained and the retention percentage of those drivers. Congratulations to our March 2019 Trainer of the Month, Sean Wilson!
About TMC
TMC Transportation is the nation’s largest employee-owned flatbed transportation company. TMC provides expert transportation services and supply-chain management solutions throughout the 48 contiguous states. Founded in 1972, TMC is headquartered in Des Moines, Iowa, and is known for its integrity, innovation, superior safety record and dedication to quality and customer service. The company’s claim-free, on-time delivery record is the best in the business and is consistently recognized by its customers.
You can visit their website at www.tmctrans.com, or click here to see TMC's jobs on SmartPhoneTrucker.
DOWNERS GROVE, IL—April 2, 2019—Roadrunner Freight, a business unit of Roadrunner Transportation Systems, Inc. (“Roadrunner” or the “company”) (NYSE: RRTS), has released a mobile application called Haul NOW for its independent contractors.
By leveraging technology, Roadrunner Freight will increase visibility of available loads within the network, allow proactive online booking and improve communication between dispatch and drivers. Haul NOW will also allow drivers to view documents, access historical dispatch and settlement information and obtain directions to service centers.
“Continued investment in technology, starting with this app, advances our mission of being the destination of choice for independent contractors and drivers. This is a huge step in improving the transparency of our network and streamlining communication between Roadrunner Freight and our customers, independent contractors and partners,” said Frank Hurst, President of Roadrunner Freight. “Feedback from our ICs allowed us to customize this application and improve their experience when partnering with Roadrunner Freight. This application will have a tremendous impact for our drivers, beginning with increased mileage and reduced downtime. We could not be more excited to debut this new tool!”
“Constantly focusing on technology enhancements is crucial in our industry and extremely important to our company,” said Michael Rapken, Chief Information Officer at Roadrunner Transportation Systems. “The launch of this application is just one of the ways we are using technology to emphasize the driver experience. Driver safety is a priority for Roadrunner Freight, therefore, our app requires users to declare that their vehicle is in park to eliminate driver distractions.”
Roadrunner Freight has more than 2,000 team members, company drivers and independent contractors, 1,900 trailers, 1,000 trucks and processes roughly 7,000 LTL shipments daily, making it a great partner for drivers.
About Roadrunner Freight
Roadrunner Freight, a division of Roadrunner LTL, is committed to providing reliable and cost-effective less-than-truckload service. With 19 service centers across the country, and a comprehensive network of strategic partners, we offer expansive long-haul, regional, and next day service in all major US markets. For more information, please visit rrts.com/freight.
About Roadrunner Transportation Systems, Inc.
Roadrunner Transportation Systems is a leading asset-right transportation and asset-light logistics provider offering a full suite of services and solutions under the Roadrunner®, Active On-Demand® and Ascent Global Logistics® brands. The Roadrunner brand offers less-than-truckload, over-the-road truckload and intermodal services. Active On-Demand offers premium mission critical air and ground logistics solutions. Ascent Global Logistics offers domestic freight management, retail consolidation, international freight forwarding and customs brokerage. For more information, please visit Roadrunner’s websites, www.rrts.com and www.ascentgl.com.
You can also see Roadrunner Transportation Systems jobs on SmartPhoneTrucker here.
DES MOINES, Iowa, March 28, 2019 – Jeff has always viewed trucking as a respectable position, as his dad was a truck driver. In fact, when he came to crossroads in his career, his dad encouraged him to pursue a job in the industry. “I used to be a preacher and when the economy went south, congregations were downsized,” Jeff says. “I wanted a new job to support my family and my dad had heard great things about TMC.”
While it wasn’t an easy decision to leave preaching, Jeff feels that he made the right choice. This is just one reason why he wanted to start training. “A lot of drivers are in the same place I was when I started: leaving home and doing something completely new and different,” Jeff says. “I want them to recognize that they made a tough decision, but that is was also the right one.”
When it comes to his training style, the Thomasville, NC, native says he takes a hands-on, laid-back approach. He mentioned that most of his trainees are already good drivers, and they just need to fine-tune their skills.
“I like the relationships I am able to develop with each person,” he says. “The best part of my job is when past trainees call me to tell me about their positive experiences, whether those be on the job or something in their personal life.”
After they leave his truck, Jeff encourages his trainees to come up with goals they would like to accomplish at TMC, and share those with their Fleet Managers. “Establishing positive relationships from the beginning is a great first step to success here, and if Fleet Managers are aware of personal goals, they are able to work better to help drivers reach them.”
At the end of the day, it all goes back to where he started with TMC that keeps Jeff motivated. “I’m thankful for my trainer, Jerry Hinson, for putting me on a good path at TMC when I was totally new to the industry. My Fleet Manager, Glenda Miller, is also awesome and I hope I can meet her in person someday.”
Driver trainers are vital to the TMC training department, and each month a trainer is chosen who demonstrates the outstanding qualities TMC looks for in a trainer. The Trainer of the Month recipient is chosen based on their safety record and the safety performance of their trainees, the number of drivers trained and the retention percentage of those drivers. Congratulations to our February 2019 Trainer of the Month, Jeff Kelley!
About TMC
TMC Transportation is the nation’s largest employee-owned flatbed transportation company. TMC provides expert transportation services and supply-chain management solutions throughout the 48 contiguous states. Founded in 1972, TMC is headquartered in Des Moines, Iowa, and is known for its integrity, innovation, superior safety record and dedication to quality and customer service. The company’s claim-free, on-time delivery record is the best in the business and is consistently recognized by its customers. Visit them at www.tmctrans.com, or see their jobs on SmartPhoneTrucker here.
DES MOINES, Iowa, March 14, 2019 – In life, perfection isn’t easy to come by, but for TMC’s 2018 Driver of the Fourth Quarter, perfect is his last name... literally! David Perfect has been a professional driver for TMC for eight years, and during his time on the Black and Chrome fleet, he has certainly been living up to his namesake.
A Chicago native, David came into the trucking industry a bit later in life, and quickly found it to be a perfect fit. David spent over two decades working for the Forest Preserve District of Cook County before he decided it was time for a change in scenery. He packed up and headed south to Manila, AR, where he had a brief stint in a steel mill before he figured it was time to retire. For David, however, retirement wasn’t all it was cracked up to be. Feeling restless, he remembered the one thing that could provide with him a new adventure; his CDL.
“My dad once told me that as long as you have your CDL, you’ll have a job, so I had always renewed and maintained mine that I acquired many years ago,” David says. “He drove an 18-wheeler locally in Chicago for 38 years, so I figured I would give truck driving a shot, and I never looked back. I love this country, and I am so thankful that I get paid to be able to see it.”
David is just about as proud as they come to be driving down the road with those three unmistakable orange and gold letters on the side of his shiny black Peterbilt, but it is the four words just underneath the logo that is what really drives him to put in 100% each day. Those words are: “An Employee-Owned Company”.
“TMC’s ESOP is incredible. Our owner is giving his company to us not only to ensure that TMC’s values and standards are upheld, but also to reward his hard working employees,” explains David. “I don’t have to drive any extra miles, secure any extra loads, but my ESOP account continues to grow year over year. I also do my best to keep an eye on the bottom line in my day-to-day, and encourage other to do so as well because there are things that we as drivers can control that affect those ESOP dollars; watching idle time and fuel usage, practicing efficient time management and preventing accidents no matter how small, because those things add up, and when all is said and done, we can all share in those savings.”
ESOP aside, David’s favorite aspect that comes with working for TMC is the people.
“I work with a bunch of incredible people and earning the designation of Driver of the Quarter is a great honor that I want to share with everyone,” he says. “We are a team here, all the behind the scenes people make my job fun and rewarding, which I think is imperative to being successful. Of course there are ups and downs, but I like to look at the big picture. I’m not in it for the load today or tomorrow, I’m in it for what’s to come in the next month or next year.”
Having just accomplished one million consecutive safe driving miles, success is something that David knows well. He has also recently decided to share his wealth of knowledge with future generations of TMC drivers by becoming a driver trainer. While he is showing his trainees the ropes to being a flatbedder, he is sure to teach them not just how to do the job, and do it right, but also what the benefits of the job down the road can be.
“David's work ethic, attitude and teamwork are unmatched,” says Steven Fagg, TMC Customer Service Manager and David’s former Fleet Manager “He's maintained a meticulous safety record, and is always there to help even in undesirable situations. He cares genuinely about TMC’s future, and represents Destination: Excellence in every way possible. I can't thank David enough for his continued efforts of going above and beyond every single day.”
David looks forward to continue achieving his goals here at TMC, with the next ones being his 10-year safe driving award, hitting two million safe miles, and one day he hopes to be named a TMC Wheel Master, the most prestigious title the company holds.
When he’s not behind the wheel, David enjoys spending time with his six grandchildren and taking them on yearly trips to the Wisconsin Dells and Disneyland. It is this job, however, that affords him these opportunities.
“My family is spread out a bit, so I feel lucky that I can travel to see them while doing my job,” he says. “TMC’s family oriented structure makes it easy to always feel at home.”
Criteria for Driver of the Quarter recognition includes years of service with the company, safe driving record, excellent customer service, professionalism and overall quality performance. Once a driver is recognized as a Driver of the Quarter they are eligible to receive the prestigious Wheel Master Award.
Congratulations, David, on this well-deserved distinction!
About TMC
TMC Transportation is the nation’s largest employee-owned open deck transportation company. TMC provides expert transportation services and supply-chain management solutions throughout the 48 contiguous states. Founded in 1972, TMC is headquartered in Des Moines, Iowa, and is known for its integrity, innovation, superior safety record and dedication to quality and customer service. The company’s claim-free, on-time delivery record is the best in the business and is consistently recognized by its customers.
You can visit their website here, or see all their jobs on SmartPhoneTrucker here.
DES MOINES, Iowa, March 8, 2019– After driving a van for a few years, Rance Moon was looking for a change of pace; something that would keep him productive out on the road, but also give him the home time he was wanting. Upon joining the Black and Chrome fleet in October 2016, Rance was reintroduced to the trucking industry “the TMC way.”
After getting his footing in the open deck industry, he was approached about becoming a driver trainer, but his interest wasn’t there initially. “I kind of keep to myself,” Rance says. “After speaking to my trainer, Mikel Whitehead, I decided to give it a try.”
Now in his second year of training, Rance is thankful that he took the leap of faith. “I’ve learned a lot while doing this job, and my ‘book of secrets’ has filled up quickly,” he says.
When Rance is on the job, his goal is to work efficiently, while keeping safety at the forefront. “I always tell my trainees to keep in contact with me if they need help, but I do my best to teach them how to be independent out on the road.”
Training has even taught Rance some things about himself. “I didn’t realize how much patience I had until I started, and I enjoy it a lot more than I expected to. I’ve also learned to speak up and deal with different situations.”
Finally, the Fortson, GA native says the whole experience has been extremely worthwhile. “I’ve met a lot of great guys along the way,” Rance says. “I want to be able to hear from my trainees down the road that they retained what I taught them. That’s how I know I did something right.”
Driver trainers are vital to the TMC training department, and each month a trainer is chosen who demonstrates the outstanding qualities TMC looks for in a trainer. The Trainer of the Month recipient is chosen based on their safety record and the safety performance of their trainees, the number of drivers trained and the retention percentage of those drivers. Congratulations to our January 2019 Trainer of the Month, Rance Moon!
About TMC
TMC Transportation is the nation’s largest employee-owned flatbed transportation company. TMC provides expert transportation services and supply-chain management solutions throughout the 48 contiguous states. Founded in 1972, TMC is headquartered in Des Moines, Iowa, and is known for its integrity, innovation, superior safety record and dedication to quality and customer service. The company’s claim-free, on-time delivery record is the best in the business and is consistently recognized by its customers. You can visit their website here, or see all their jobs on SmartPhoneTrucker here.
DES MOINES, Iowa, February 21, 2019– Congratulations to Doug McNeel, TMC’s Trainer of the Year for 2018! Doug has been a professional truck driver with TMC for a little over six years, four and a half of which he has been training. He received the Trainer of the Month award back in July 2017.
After having a conversation with Doug, one can’t help but think he was destined to work at TMC. After serving in the Navy for 28 years, the Nebraska native retired to Spring, TX, where he currently resides. During his time in the Navy, he worked as a Torpedo Man Chief, and his given nickname was “TMC.” Driving for TMC was Doug’s first job after his military retirement, and it has turned out to be a great fit.
“TMC’s structure is similar to the military’s. They have the best equipment and a very family oriented feel,” he says. Doug also had training experience while in the Navy and always knew it was something he wanted to pick up again in the future.
To Doug, truck driving is more than a career; it’s a lifestyle. He strives to instill in his trainees to love their job and to make every day enjoyable.
“With the right mindset and good time management, there are plenty of ways to make driving something you can incorporate into your daily life,” he says. Doug suggests picking a place to layover during the weekend to take in different sights, or taking the opportunity to visit family who might live in other places around the country.
“Doug is just the kind of driver we want building the future of TMC,” says Jeff Geist, Training Coordinator Manager. “His detailed training and leadership ensures we continue to grow our fleet with the best prepared and safest drivers in the industry.”
When looking to the future, Doug just wants to keep doing what he’s doing. He says his Fleet Manager, Amanda Torres, is especially great to work with, and she plays a factor in his success as well.
“I want to do the best I can and do what’s best for the company,” he says. “It’s easy with the team I’m on; everyone makes the job enjoyable and I want to keep coming back each week.”
At the end of the day, Doug is grateful for where truck driving and driver training have brought him.
“The people I get to meet, train and become friends with are what I enjoy most,” he says. “The friendships I’ve made are priceless, and it’s great to see guys that you’ve trained see success as well.”
If Doug isn’t out on the road, you can most likely find him back in Texas spending time with his six grandchildren.
“Most Fridays when I get home, I’m off to the skating rink, and I always look forward to that.”
Driver trainers are vital to TMC’s fleet and an important part of maintaining the company’s excellent customer service and safety record. Congratulations, Doug, and thank you for helping to shape the future of TMC!
About TMC
TMC Transportation is the nation’s largest employee-owned flatbed transportation company. TMC provides expert transportation services and supply-chain management solutions throughout the 48 contiguous states. Founded in 1972, TMC is headquartered in Des Moines, Iowa, and is known for its integrity, innovation, superior safety record and dedication to quality and customer service. The company’s claim-free, on-time delivery record is the best in the business and is consistently recognized by its customers. Visit their website at www.tmctrans.com or check out their jobs on SmartPhoneTrucker here .
DES MOINES, Iowa, January 17, 2019– In the 10 years that Josh has been with TMC, he has made quite the reputation for himself. As some may recall, this is not the first time he has received recognition for the great work he does at TMC. After he first started training in 2010, Josh was named Trainer of the Month about a year later in 2011. Shortly after, he took a break from training to help with family matters back home.
His most recent recognition was being named a Driver of the Third Quarter in 2017. Also in 2017, Josh decided it was time to pick up training again, and he hasn’t turned back since. This second recognition goes to show he hasn’t skipped a beat!
While he is working with trainees, Josh focuses on the most basic, yet essential, parts of the job. “Being safe and practicing good time management are two of the most important aspects of this job,” he says. “To instill those values, I encourage drivers to get out and look (G.O.A.L.) and to always communicate with their Fleet Managers.”
Josh considers himself to be laid back when it comes to training. “When trainees first get in the truck, I’m more hands-on in teaching to make sure they are doing things correctly,” he says. “Once they are more comfortable, I stand back and let them take the lead.”
In the long run, Josh just wants to see his trainees succeed and keep seeing success. “I want to help them better themselves while doing this job so they can meet their personal goals, such as home time and providing for their families.”
He gives credit to recruiter Todd Cooper for bringing him to TMC. “He’s a great and truthful guy,” says Josh. “He really sold me on working here and TMC has come through on everything he promised me.”
Driver trainers are vital to the TMC training department, and each month a trainer is chosen who demonstrates the outstanding qualities TMC looks for in a trainer. The Trainer of the Month recipient is chosen based on their safety record and the safety performance of their trainees, the number of drivers trained and the retention percentage of those drivers. Congratulations to our December 2018 Trainer of the Month, Joshua Deeds!
About TMC
TMC Transportation is the nation’s largest employee-owned flatbed transportation company. TMC provides expert transportation services and supply-chain management solutions throughout the 48 contiguous states. Founded in 1972, TMC is headquartered in Des Moines, Iowa, and is known for its integrity, innovation, superior safety record and dedication to quality and customer service. The company’s claim-free, on-time delivery record is the best in the business and is consistently recognized by its customers. Visit us at www.tmctrans.com.
You can see TMC's jobs on SmartPhoneTrucker here.
Are you ready for AFTER Christmas???
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DES MOINES, Iowa, December 4, 2018– TMC Transportation, the nation’s largest employee-owned open deck carrier, is proud to present Randy Buhs as the recipient of the distinguished Driver of the Quarter award for the third quarter of 2018. With 18 years and nearly two million safe driving miles, both consecutively with TMC, Randy Buhs is the epitome of a TMC Driver of the Quarter. The Peoria, IL native and Army veteran came to TMC at the turn of the century and immediately made a name for himself.
Randy has experienced just about every opportunity the truck driving industry has to offer. Before he came to TMC, Randy drove reefer regionally for 11 years. Seeking a change of scenery and a more challenging routine, Randy decided he wanted to drive flatbed, and was drawn to TMC because of its sparkling reputation.
Upon onboarding with TMC, Randy enjoyed seeing all that the United States has to offer while driving on the over-the-road linehaul division. He was even was a driver trainer for several years before he joined the elite TMC Specialized Division, hauling heavy equipment until a local dedicated position opened up near his hometown, where he continues to be a shining representative of TMC.
“From the very beginning I was very pleased with my choice to drive for TMC,” says Randy. “The quality of this company is evident with the top-notch equipment, and having my name on my door makes me feel like I am not just a number. TMC values their drivers and gives you all the tools to be your own boss and be successful.”
Driving two million miles while maintaining a spotless safety record is no accident (no pun intended). Randy’s number one goal is to give 100% effort to his job each and every day, and to do so with a safety conscious work ethic.
“In this industry, it is so important to be alert, aware and do everything you can to keep yourself and motorists safe out on the road,” Randy explains. “To achieve this goal, I make sure to do everything with a deliberate, easy pace and not get in a rush. At the end of the week when I park my truck I look back, review and ask myself what I could have to be more safe and efficient. I strive to always do better than I did the day before.”
Not only does Randy find pride in the job he does, he is grateful to work for a company that gives back to their employees. Randy experienced the implementation of TMC’s employee-ownership program in 2013, and found that it gave him even more motivation to work harder and smarter.
“It is amazing that our owner thinks so much of his drivers and employees that he chose to keep TMC’s core values and turn his company over to us,” says Randy. “It lights a fire under you. The better you do your job, the more successful the company is and all TMC employees get to share in those benefits. In the five years since we’ve been employee-owned, the growth and success has been tremendous, and I couldn’t be happier in my choice of companies to work for.”
Most are familiar with TMC’s signature motto, “Destination: Excellence”. When Randy first began driving with TMC, he always thought it was a nice expression, but couldn’t fully understand what it meant at first.
“After 18 years, that motto has resonated with me and really made an impact on my goals for the future,” he says. “At the end of your driving career when you step out of that truck, did you really achieve that destination of excellence? When I retire, I want to be able to say that I did.”
"Randy does an excellent job on the Arconic dedicated account,” says Brent Funk, Randy’s Fleet Manager. “He is a driver that I can consistently count on to get the job done right and on time. Randy has a phenomenal work ethic and is very deserving of this award. I look forward to seeing Randy continue to succeed at TMC.”
Randy resides in East Peoria, IL with his wife of 37 years. He has two grown children and is a proud grandfather to two young grandchildren. We are blessed to have Randy as a part of the Black and Chrome family, and we greatly appreciate the hard work he puts in each day. Congratulations, Randy!
Criteria for Driver of the Quarter recognition includes years of service with the company, safe driving record, excellent customer service, professionalism and overall quality performance. Once a driver is recognized as a Driver of the Quarter they are eligible to receive the prestigious Wheel Master Award.
About TMC
TMC Transportation is the nation’s largest employee-owned open deck transportation company. TMC provides expert transportation services and supply-chain management solutions throughout the 48 contiguous states. Founded in 1972, TMC is headquartered in Des Moines, Iowa, and is known for its integrity, innovation, superior safety record and dedication to quality and customer service. The company’s claim-free, on-time delivery record is the best in the business and is consistently recognized by its customers. Visit our website here, or see the TMC jobs on SmartPhoneTrucker by clicking here.
DES MOINES, Iowa, September 5, 2018– Joe came to TMC looking for a new work environment with a familiar setting: the open road. After doing his research, he discovered the Black and Chrome and decided it would be the perfect place for him. After officially joining the team in May 2010, Joe quickly discovered that he found the right place. “I have always felt at home here, and it’s been a great fit from the very beginning,” he says.
In August 2015, he felt it was time for him to take on the training role. “I believed that I had a lot of good knowledge to bring to the table,” Joe says. “I wanted to do my part and make sure new drivers are learning what they need to do.”
“Joe is a hard worker and a diligent trainer,” says Jeff Geist, Training Coordinator Manager. “His main goal is to see his trainees succeed and he makes sure they are prepared for the job ahead.”
The Jacksonville, Fla., native considers himself a hands-on trainer. “This job is all about repetition,” he says. “My job is to make sure that I understand how each individual learns and cater to both their strengths and also areas that need more coaching.”
One thing that Joe emphasizes to his trainees is the importance of lending a hand out on the road. “I never stray away from helping out other drivers.” He also stresses the importance of seeking help if it you need it. “Never try to be in too big of a rush, and never be afraid to ask questions.”
For professional drivers who are interested in training, Joe encourages patience and persistence. “You have to be patient and realize that you will always be learning new things as well,” he says. “You always have to grow in your skills while teaching others to do the same.”
Driver trainers are vital to the TMC training department, and each month a trainer is chosen who demonstrates the outstanding qualities TMC looks for in a trainer. The Trainer of the Month recipient is chosen based on their safety record and the safety performance of their trainees, the number of drivers trained and the retention percentage of those drivers. Congratulations to our July 2018 Trainer of the Month, Joseph Ingram!
About TMC
TMC Transportation is the nation’s largest employee-owned flatbed transportation company. TMC provides expert transportation services and supply-chain management solutions throughout the 48 contiguous states. Founded in 1972, TMC is headquartered in Des Moines, Iowa, and is known for its integrity, innovation, superior safety record and dedication to quality and customer service. The company’s claim-free, on-time delivery record is the best in the business and is consistently recognized by its customers. Visit us at www.tmctrans.com or see the TMC jobs on SmartPhoneTrucker here.
DES MOINES, Iowa, August 8, 2018– TMC Transportation, the nation’s largest employee-owned open deck carrier, is proud to present John Strickland Jr. as the recipient of the distinguished Driver of the Quarter award for the second quarter of 2018. A professional truck driver with the company for more than seven years, John has steered his career with pride and perseverance.
John was drawn to the trucking industry for the exciting challenges it entails and the comfortable living it provides. He enjoys the journey of the open road and the variance of the day-to-day over-the-road lifestyle.
“I love working hard, it’s in my blood,” says John. “This job takes a deep sense of dedication, and I take pride in giving 100% effort every day.”
John obtained his CDL several years before joining the Black and Chrome fleet while working at a small local operation. He didn’t see much driving time, and was hungry for adventure and the opportunity to further his career. John chose to sign on with TMC because of the diversity and physicality of flatbed, the industry leading home time and performance based pay package.
After a successful first few years at TMC, John chose to become a driver trainer and help provide new drivers with the tools to succeed in their own careers. Then in 2013, upon TMC’s implementation of the Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP), John’s job as a truck driver and trainer took a whole new meaning.
“From the beginning I knew I wanted to retire here, but being an employee-owner gives you something more to reach for,” John explains. “Everything you do contributes toward your future, and training gives you the opportunity to teach new drivers the right way to do things to keep the company successful. It gives you a whole new goal.”
John has been so successful as both a driver and driver trainer that he was named TMC’s “Trainer of the Month” in March of this year, and he is well on his way to reaching his first million safe driving miles, an accomplishment he has long been determined to achieve. Being a safe driver is of utmost importance to John, and he takes active steps every day to ensure the safety of himself, his trainees and other motorists.
“Tolerance and patience is key,” he says. “Always execute thorough pre-trips and be prepared to adapt to new situations. And of course, always get plenty of rest!”
"John is outstanding in every category,” says Sam Bricker, John’s Fleet Manager. “I have worked with john for several years now and he takes a lot of pride in his job and working for TMC. He is one of the hardest working drivers I have and always strives to do things correctly and safely. John is extremely reliable, easy going and will do whatever it takes to get the job done."
John is a native of Camden, Arkansas, but currently resides in northeast Texas. He is a proud father, and recently became a grandfather. TMC is proud to have John as a fantastic representation of the company and trucking industry as a whole, and we look forward to his future successes.
Criteria for Driver of the Quarter recognition includes years of service with the company, safe driving record, excellent customer service, professionalism and overall quality performance. Once a driver is recognized as a Driver of the Quarter they are eligible to receive the prestigious Wheel Master Award.
About TMC
TMC Transportation is the nation’s largest employee-owned open deck transportation company. TMC provides expert transportation services and supply-chain management solutions throughout the 48 contiguous states. Founded in 1972, TMC is headquartered in Des Moines, Iowa, and is known for its integrity, innovation, superior safety record and dedication to quality and customer service. The company’s claim-free, on-time delivery record is the best in the business and is consistently recognized by its customers. Visit us at www.tmctrans.com.
You can also see TMC's jobs on SmartPhoneTrucker by clicking here.
DES MOINES, Iowa, June 27, 2018– Flatbed trucking was not a job that Jeff ever expected himself to be doing, but when the opportunity for a career change arose, he decided that it was time to step out of his comfort zone. Now that he is here and working in the training role, there is no place he would rather be. “I kind of just fell into the flatbed industry,” Jeff says. He joined the TMC family in December 2015 and became a driver trainer in October 2017. “I always heard about the principles and policies that TMC had, and I really liked that,” he says.
Jeff’s goal is that his drivers walk away from training feeling confident about the job they need to do. He also suggests this as a primary objective for those who are considering becoming a trainer themselves. “Success from this job comes from following the standards that TMC has in place,” he says. “They set the bar very high, and my own trainer instilled in me the importance of doing the job right.”
The Bossier City, La. native works to teach his drivers how to do the job as efficiently as possible, while always keeping safety at the forefront. He does this by keeping his training environment laid back and positive. “I know drivers are already nervous when they start training,” Jeff says. “They don’t need the extra pressure.”
“The safety record of the drivers he has trained is impeccable,” says Jeff Geist, Training Coordinator Manager. “This attributes to the quality training that he provides.”
Jeff is grateful for where his journey in the trucking industry has taken him. “It has taught me to be more patient and understanding, and I’m always learning new things from my trainees,” he says. “It makes me really proud to do this job, and it’s great to keep meeting new people and showing them the ropes.”
Driver trainers are vital to the TMC training department, and each month a trainer is chosen who demonstrates the outstanding qualities TMC looks for in a trainer. The Trainer of the Month recipient is chosen based on their safety record and the safety performance of their trainees, the number of drivers trained and the retention percentage of those drivers. Congratulations to our May 2018 Trainer of the Month, Jeff Sharp!
About TMC
TMC Transportation is the nation’s largest employee-owned flatbed transportation company. TMC provides expert transportation services and supply-chain management solutions throughout the 48 contiguous states. Founded in 1972, TMC is headquartered in Des Moines, Iowa, and is known for its integrity, innovation, superior safety record and dedication to quality and customer service. The company’s claim-free, on-time delivery record is the best in the business and is consistently recognized by its customers. Visit us at www.tmctrans.com.
You can also see TMC's jobs on SmartPhoneTrucker by clicking here.
Launched Feb. 1, nearly $500,000 paid out under program by mid-year point!
Chattanooga, Tenn. — Leaders at Covenant Transport were excited about April’s teaming bonus pay out of $88,000.
Then the good news got even better – in May, the expedited shipping specialist paid out $368,000 to 184 driving teams who eclipsed 60,000 paid miles together, resulting in each team getting a $2,000 bonus, or $1,000 bonus per driver.
“We knew for months May was going to be a breakout month,” said Joey Hogan, president. “We just didn’t know exactly how big it would be.”
Since the $40,000 Teaming Bonus program launched Feb. 1, Covenant has paid out nearly $500,000 in bonuses to professional driving teams.
“It’s been exciting for us to be able to reward drivers who are committed to teaming,” Hogan said.
And Rob Hatchett, vice president of recruiting, pointed out that for many teams, the payouts will keep coming.
“Of course the great news is this isn’t a one-time payout,” Hatchett said. “The way we structured the teaming bonus, these 368 team drivers will hit the payout again in another three to four months.”
In other words, “it’s going to be a continual celebration around here,” he said.
For more information about Covenant Transport, visit http://www.covenanttransport.com. You can also see Covenant's ads on SmartPhoneTrucker here.
Launched Feb. 1, the program puts money in drivers’ pockets when teams eclipse 60,000 paid miles together!
By the end of April, 44 teams triggered Covenant’s new $40,000 Teaming Bonus program by eclipsing 60,000 paid miles together and collecting $2,000 per team.
Collectively, April’s recipients collected $88,000 in bonus money thanks to the program which launched Feb. 1, and company leaders expects those same results or better in May, as hundreds of team drivers are on track to eclipse their first 60,000 miles together by the end of the month.
The $40,000 Teaming Bonus is structured to pay $2,000 in bonus money to each driving team that eclipses 60,000 paid miles together, until the team reaches a total $40,000 in bonus money.
In the midst of a nationwide driver shortage, the teaming bonus program is designed to reward new and existing team drivers, and prove Covenant is the premier employer of team drivers, as well as a national leader in team freight and miles, according to Rob Hatchett, vice president of recruiting.
“We specialize in teams, and we created this program to not only cement our place as the leading team carrier in the country, but also to prove to our people that we value them and want them here,” Hatchett said. “Now, our folks and others in the industry are seeing this program isn’t just an empty promise, this is real.”
Other Covenant leaders said the teaming bonus sets Covenant apart in a market characterized by across-the-board hikes in driver pay and promises.
“Teaming is our niche, and has been since day one,” said Joey Hogan, president. “We want to always attract and retain top talent, and we want to do that by putting real rewards in our peoples’ hands. And with this program, that’s what we’re doing.”
Driving professionally is an increasingly tough job, said Hogan, which is why the teaming bonus is aimed at rewarding those driving the success of the company.
“Professional drivers are our front line,” he said. “They make sure our customers are happy, and that we do what we promise. So this is our way of thanking them for their hard work, loyalty and commitment.”
For more information about Covenant Transport, visit www.covenanttransport.com.
To watch a celebration honoring the first 20 recipients of bonus money under the $40,000 Teaming Bonus program, click here.
You can also see Covenant's ads on SmartPhoneTrucker here.
It will be a boot scootin’ affair as Westwood One’s Red Eye Radio network kicks the Mid-America Trucking Show up a notch as THE premier celebrity rendezvous spot in Louisville. This year’s star-studded event features live appearances and musical performances from Country artists: Tanya Tucker, Dustin Collins, Lucas Hoge, Ray Scott, Tyler Jordan, Jayne Denham, and Tony Justice.
Red Eye Radio will be treating attendees with this incredible mix of extremely talented and accomplished artists firsthand. These artists have won awards or had nominations from; the Grammys, the Academy of Country Music, Country Music Association, Country Music Association of Australia, and Male and Female Artist and Song of the Year. To say this lineup is anything less than spectacular, would be an understatement.
Visitors to the booth will also be able to register for Daily Drawings for CB Radios, GPS Units, and much more. Red Eye Radio’s 2018 Mid-America Trucking Show events and activities are powered by: UNIROYAL TRUCK TIRES, PILOT FLYING J, CHEVRON DELO, PETERBILT MOTOR CO., MERCER TRANSPORTATION, MOTEL 6, TOUGHTESTED, and THE ST. CHRISTOPHER TRUCKERS RELIEF FUND.
The Mid-America Trucking Show, a trucking convention with over 70,000 attendees, will take place March 22-24, 2018 at the Kentucky Exposition Center in Louisville, KY. Eric Harley, host of Red Eye Radio, will be on site to introduce attendees to the sizzling lineup of country music artists. The special guests will visit Red Eye Radio’s lobby booth (41064) for signing autographs, taking photos, and talking with drivers. For specific days, schedule, and details visit www.redeyeradioshow.com.
For almost 50 years, Red Eye Radio Network has been a part of the fabric of the trucking industry by consistently providing professional drivers up-to-the-minute news, information, and entertainment. The show is motivated by one purpose — to deliver a positive, in-cab experience by helping trucker drivers/owner operators and fleet owners stay informed, engaged, and entertained on the road or wherever they are in their daily lives.
With coverage across the United States and most of Canada, Red Eye Radio is hosted by radio veterans Eric Harley and Gary McNamara. The program airs Monday through Sunday from 1am – 6am EST on more than 240 AM/FM stations, on-demand/podcasts, on RER’s free downloadable app from iTunes and the Google Play Store, Amazon’s Alexa, and Live Streaming.
MATS 2018 Artist Schedule
Jayne Denham
Thursday – March 22: 11a – 11:45a performance, then 11:45a – 12p meet/greet
Dustin Collins
Thursday - March 22: 12:30p – 1:30p performance, then 1:30p – 2p meet/greet
Tanya Tucker
Thursday - March 22: 2p – 4p meet/greet ONLY
Tyler Jordan
Thursday – March 22: 4p – 4:45p performance, then 4:45p – 5:15p meet/greet
Ray Scott
Friday - March 23: 9:30a – 10:30a performance, then 10:30a – 11a meet/greet
Lucas Hoge
Saturday - March 24: 8:30a – 9:30a performance, then 9:30a – 10a meet/greet
Tony Justice
TBD
For individual photos or questions, please contact:
Steven Schildt
972-406-6812
sschildt@westwoodone.com
TMC Transportation has announced that Herb House is their 2017 Wheel Master. The annual Wheel Master award is the highest driver honor given at TMC, and Herb’s hard work and dedication to his Black and Chrome family over the past 25 years has earned him this notable distinction.
Herb left his factory job in 1982 to chase his sense of adventure. He decided to go to truck driving school, and shortly after he found his niche in the flatbed industry. He spent some time with other carriers, but there was only one company he really wanted to work for. Finally in 1993, Herb took the chance and officially signed on with TMC. Two and a half decades and 2.5 million safe driving miles later, Herb will be joining a small group of prestigious drivers that call themselves TMC Wheel Masters.
“I feel like I’ve grown both as a driver and as a person during my time with TMC. I’ve learned a lot about patience,” says Herb. “But it is easy to work hard for a company that goes out of their way to treat you like TMC does. The people I work with are great, top-notch equipment, pay and home time. It doesn’t get much better.”
Herb currently drives for TMC’s Specialized Division, one that yields some of the best and safest drivers in the fleet. ‘Safe’ is a concept Herb knows well, however, as he has collected nearly every safe driving award TMC has to offer. He was also named Driver of the Quarter in 2010.
“I don’t think there really is a secret to being a safe driver,” Herb explains. “Pay attention to detail and don’t be afraid to ask questions. But above all, just keep your wheels on the ground.”
Herb resides in Morrison, Illinois with his wife Teri. He is a valued asset to TMC, and we are proud to bestow this prestigious award upon him. Herb will be honored at the annual Wheel Master Meeting that will take place at TMC’s headquarters in Des Moines, Iowa in March. Each spring, former Wheel Masters, some retired, many still active drivers, gather for a luncheon to catch up and induct the newest Wheel Master.
“I have just been going about doing my job the best way I know how, so receiving this award was something I was not expecting,” Herb says. “I am honored and humbled.”
About TMC
TMC Transportation is the nation’s largest employee-owned open deck transportation company. TMC provides expert transportation services and supply-chain management solutions throughout the 48 contiguous states. Founded in 1972, TMC is headquartered in Des Moines, Iowa, and is known for its integrity, innovation, superior safety record and dedication to quality and customer service. The company’s claim-free, on-time delivery record is the best in the business and is consistently recognized by its customers. Visit us at www.tmctrans.com. You can also see TMC JOBS on SmartPhoneTrucker by clicking here.
Chattanooga, Tenn. — With today’s technology and tools, trucking stands at the doorstep of an innovation and improvement golden age, and Ryan Rogers is excited about what the upcoming era holds for the industry, as well as for the team he’s been tabbed to lead at Covenant Transport Services.
Rogers took over as the new head of Covenant Transport Services’ transformation and continuous improvement team in January, taking on the title of Chief Transformation Officer for the enterprise. In his new role, Rogers will head up merger and acquisition programs, innovation and technology and strategic planning.
A Chattanooga native and graduate of the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga, Rogers is a proven thought leader in transportation and logistics, with a successful record of accomplishments to show for it.
Joey Hogan, president of Covenant Transport Services, said Rogers is the right person in the right role at the right moment for the multi-company enterprise.
“Ryan’s track record speaks for itself,” said Hogan. “He knows transportation and logistics, and he understands, as we do, that technology and data have the power to positively transform the way we do business, allowing us to work smarter and better, while leading the way for our industry.”
Rogers comes most recently from e-commerce giant Amazon, where he served as a transportation executive, leading procurement and carrier development at a time when e-commerce – led by giants like Amazon -- turned heads around the transportation and logistics industry with increasing sales and demand for capacity.
Prior to Amazon, Rogers served in multiple roles at national truckload provider U.S. Xpress Enterprises, including corporate treasurer and Chief Operating Officer at the company’s logistics division at a time of extensive growth in revenue.
He currently serves as a mentor at Chattanooga-based transportation and logistics incubator Dynamo, and is a member of the Chattanooga Technology Council.
Rogers said coming to Covenant in the role of Chief Transformation Officer is the culmination of his professional experiences to this point – the melding of his knowledge and skills in operations, finance, logistics, innovation and mergers and acquisitions – and a chance for him to put his diverse know-how to work.
“This transition is an opportunity for me to capitalize on the background and experience I have, and to do so at Covenant, which has put itself in a very good position with its diverse operating companies,” he said.
Rogers also shares Covenant leaders’ passion for people and transformational technology, crediting his own financial and operational background for preparing him to lead, and his entrepreneurial spirit for helping him to see nimbler, better ways to do business and manage the company’s most valuable resource, people.
“We have a great organization and industry-leading people here,” he said. “I’m excited about where we’re going, and I look forward to continuing to bring top talent and other industry leaders into the Covenant group of companies.”
To learn more about Covenant Transport Services, visit their website here. To view their jobs on SmartPhoneTrucker, click here.
About Covenant Transport Services
Covenant Transport Services is a registered tradename of Covenant Transport, Inc., Covenant Transport Solutions, Inc., Southern Refrigerated Transport, Inc. and Star Transportation, Inc. Covenant Transport Services represents more than 30 years of expertise and leadership in expedited and team truckload; temperature-controlled truckload; dedicated truckload; and managed transportation services. Covenant Transport Services is represented by a national enterprise-wide sales team. Covenant Transportation Group, Inc. (CTG) is the parent holding company for several transportation providers that offer premium services for customers throughout the United States and Mexico. The consolidated group includes operations from Covenant Transport, Inc. and Covenant Transport Solutions, Inc., of Chattanooga, Tenn.; Southern Refrigerated Transport, Inc., of Texarkana, Ark.; and Star Transportation, Inc., of Nashville, Tenn. In addition, Transport Enterprise Leasing, LLC, of Chattanooga, Tenn. is an integral affiliated company providing revenue equipment sales and leasing services to the trucking industry. CTG’s Class A common stock is traded on the NASDAQ Global Select market under the symbol, “CVTI”.
Clayton, AL-based Boyd Bros. Transportation is issuing a two-cent-per-mile pay increase with a one-thousand dollar weekly minimum pay to its drivers, effective February 27, 2018.
Along with the pay increase, Boyd is launching a new sign-on bonus geared for an immediate pay out. Candidates hired by Boyd will receive five-hundred dollars upon delivery of first load, and an additional six-cents-per-mile for the following eighteen months.
“We are committed to creating a better OTR driving job and pay is a key factor,” Boyd president and CEO, Chris Cooper explained. “This across the board increase and weekly minimum not only attracts new candidates to Boyd, but shows how we value our current drivers in a very tangible way.”
“Our sign-on bonus pay out is aggressive for a reason,” states COO, Dwight Bassett. “A line in our mission statement reads ‘we do what we say we will do.’ We take that very seriously. By paying the bonus with each mile driven, new drivers at Boyd know that they will receive their bonus. It’s not a gimmick.” Bassett continues, “The bonus should accumulate to around $10,000 with experienced flatbed drivers starting at 57-cents-per-mile plus a monthly productivity bonus.”
For more information about the career opportunities at Boyd Bros., click here; visit www.driveforboyd.com; or call (888) 485-8717.
About Boyd Bros. Transportation
In business since 1956, Boyd Bros. knows what it takes to do business right. From their headquarters to their terminals in Birmingham, Ala., and Cincinnati, Ohio, the employment picture at Boyd Bros. is vibrant and full of opportunity. Join the team and discover how it feels to work for a stable company that values who you are and offers the support you need to succeed.
Up to 6-cent-per-mile increase is second pay bump in six months for refrigerated carrier, as company officials double down on recruiting and retaining driving talent!
TEXARKANA, Ark. — More money, no tricks – it’s the message Southern Refrigerated Transport (SRT) officials are sending drivers with the announcement of a pay increase which will result, depending on years of experience, in an up to 6-cent-per-mile increase for mileage-based drivers.
The pay increase is the greatest of its kind at SRT in more than 30 years in business, and it comes on the heels of a 1 cent-per-mile driver pay hike which rolled out Oct. 2017.
Billy Cartright, COO at SRT, said the recent pay increases reflect the company’s dedication to treating its people right and to ensuring SRT is a great place to work for both current and future drivers.
“Our drivers didn’t want another bonus, which you see so often throughout the industry,” he said. “They wanted a pay increase they can see every week on their paycheck.”
And Cartright said the good news for SRT drivers doesn’t end with simply making more money. Utilization at the company is up, which means drivers can expect to make more money and move more miles in 2018.
Terri Lafayette, director of recruiting at SRT, said the pay increase is exciting, as it puts the results of drivers’ hard work and many days away from home back into their own pockets.
She said combined with existing bonuses – which pay up to 12 cents-per-mile -- and recently-announced winter holiday pay, this driver pay raise also helps set SRT apart from the pack when it comes to recruiting new drivers.
“There are a lot of companies competing for drivers today,” she said, “but not all of them are willing to invest in their people once they have them.”
At SRT however, Lafayette feels the company has its priorities straight.
“Our drivers are the backbone of everything we do,” she said. “Without them, none of the rest of us would be here. So it’s fitting we show them how important they are to us, and to SRT.”
The new pay raise is adjusted for factors including experience and tenure with the company, and officially goes into effect for all mileage-based SRT drivers on March 11.
To learn more about Southern Refrigerated Transport, or to apply for a driving job, visit www.southernref.com, or view their jobs on SmartPhoneTrucker here.
DES MOINES, IA-based TMC has named Dennis Kinzler Trainer of the Month for December. Dennis has been driving for TMC for just over three years and has already proved himself a valuable asset in the training department. He had training experience from a previous employer, so the interest to move into the role was always there.
“The underlying motivation was that I always appreciated that somebody was able to train me,” says Dennis. “I saw what they were doing in helping new drivers come about and I wanted to be a part of that.”
Like many others in the industry, Dennis enjoys the shared camaraderie between drivers out on the road. “I think the relationships you gain out here are invaluable,” he says. “Even the ones you build with drivers from other companies.”
Dennis applies the relationship building approach in his training. “I’m always helping my guys out and reassuring them that I have their best interest in mind,” he says. He believes this hands-on teaching helps his trainees the most. “I’m really patient and I try to teach little things along the way, and I think they appreciate that.”
Dennis is aware of the challenges that new drivers face, such as being away from their families thing and the obstacles of being in a new work environment. “My job is to make sure these guys have a career they enjoy,” Dennis says. “Helping them gain experience and learn to grow is the way to do that.”
For those who are interested in training, Dennis says to give it a shot. “I encourage it because it is rewarding to see people grow in the industry,” he says. “Take each day as a small challenge and hold true to what you know.”
Finally, Dennis is appreciative of the opportunities at TMC, and training has turned out to be one of the most rewarding for him. “It’s a blessing when you find out some of the guys you trained are now trainers themselves,” he says. “It feels like you really had an impact on somebody.”
Driver trainers are vital to the TMC training department, and each month a trainer is chosen who demonstrates the outstanding qualities TMC looks for in a trainer. The Trainer of the Month recipient is chosen based on their safety record and the safety performance of their trainees, the number of drivers trained and the retention percentage of those drivers. Congratulations to our December 2017 Trainer of the Month, Dennis Kinzler!
About TMC
TMC Transportation is the nation’s largest employee-owned flatbed transportation company. TMC provides expert transportation services and supply-chain management solutions throughout the 48 contiguous states. Founded in 1972, TMC is headquartered in Des Moines, Iowa, and is known for its integrity, innovation, superior safety record and dedication to quality and customer service. The company’s claim-free, on-time delivery record is the best in the business and is consistently recognized by its customers. You can see their openings here or visit their website here.
If you know a good trailer mechanic living near Cedar Hill, Texas or Blenker, Wisconsin, tell them to call deBoer today!
deBoer is hiring Trailer Mechanics at their Cedar Hill, TX & Blenker, WI locations, and their ideal candidate would be self-motivated, have a positive attitude, and have the ability to work well with others to achieve set goals.
Trailer Mechanic job duties include:
• Performing scheduled trailer basic preventative maintenance.
• Performing annual DOT vehicle inspections (if qualified)
• Inspecting brake systems, tires, lights, wheel bearings and other vital parts to ensure that they are in proper operating condition.
• Repairing floors, side wall, roofs, and cross members
• Remove and install wheel assemblies and tires
• Completing other basic electrical and trailer repairs
• Completing assigned repair orders concisely and within time restrictions.
Trailer Mechanic jobs require:
• Previous experience or education in maintenance related field
• Candidate must own tools to perform job duties
• High school diploma or equivalent
• Valid driver license
• Ability to read, write, and speak English
• Filling out and submitting all required documents in an accurate and timely manner
To apply please email your resume to jeremiah@deboertrans.com.
Santa has a new team of helpers delivering Christmas!
A rare Southern snow in early December found Don and Jason Lord, a father-son driving team at Covenant Transport, sitting warmly in their truck waiting out unexpected wintry road conditions.
In a suburb just west of Atlanta – with its bird’s nest of big roads and crucial status as an eastern shipping center – the Lords checked their in-cab dispatch device, and waited for confirmation of their next load assignment.
The Lords had recently delivered a thousand-mile load for a major less-than-truckload carrier, and at this time of year, it was reasonable to believe it contained Christmas gifts, purchased by shoppers online and slated to be dropped on a doorstep, in some cases, as little as two days later.
Once unheard of, this speed of service is normal in an immediate economy – a luxury most Americans have grown used to, but one that hinges on millions of professional drivers just like the Lords.
Santa’s helpers, also known as over-the-road professional truck drivers, are the hidden figures who drive freight long distances, even cross-country, so that the time-sensitive delivery of goods happens. And it’s horsepower – not a team of reindeer – which powers them.
“It ain’t just me,” said Jason Lord, waiting out the weather on this cold, purple evening. “This country revolves around trucks. Nothing gets anywhere without them.”
Sure, you may very well know Dasher, Dancer, Prancer and Vixen. But it’s the names you don’t know who really make Santa’s deliveries happen.
Covenant Transport is headquartered in Chattanooga, Tenn., a mid-size, Southern meeting point for a handful of Interstates, adjacent to both river and rail.
And here in a city centrally located to the eastern United States, Andy Vanzant, vice president of operations at Covenant Transport, leads a team of 150 operations employees who oversee the logistics and management of nearly 2,500 of Santa’s best helpers.
Because thanks to two-day shipping, Kris Kringle has quite a reputation to uphold.
“We expect that package on our porch in two days or less,” said Vanzant. “The only way to make that happen is expedited team transit.”
Covenant specializes in expedited team transport, with a model built on putting two professional drivers in a truck and powering that truck almost around the clock. Covenant is the secondlargest team carrier in the United States and play a major role in e-commerce.
Just like traditional brick-and-mortar retailers, online retail – and the shippers who move goods bought online – experience a spike in business in the weeks leading up to Christmas, typically beginning around Thanksgiving and not totally subsiding until mid-January.
This year, between Thanksgiving and Cyber Monday alone, more than 174 million Americans went shopping, both in-store and online, according to the National Retail Federation.
And critically, according to an NRF survey, more Americans plan to buy online than in-store this holiday season. And in nearly every meaningful metric, online shopping and e-commerce show only signs of rising in coming years.
And that means carriers like Covenant must also rise to the challenge. Planning for peak season begins as early as the first of July.
“We ramp up about 10 percent in-house to accommodate the logistics of expedited loads [during peak season],” said Vanzant.
In addition, Covenant offers drivers peak pay bonuses to carry expedited loads in the most crucial windows of the holiday shopping season. When everything works as it should, nobody notices the elves working behind the scenes.
“We’re silently making e-commerce happen,” said Vanzant.
Though her role is entirely behind-the-scenes, Kendall Bruning, load planner at Covenant, knows how important her job – like thousands of others across the country – is this time of year.
Part of Bruning’s role is to make sure loads assigned to Covenant are assigned to trucks and then delivered safely, and on time. She works closely with professional drivers to match loads with the best person or truck for the job at that particular moment.
“All year long, where you set schedules – however many a day – during peak, it doubles or triples,” she said.
This year will be Bruning’s fourth at Covenant, and by now, she is a seasoned veteran with three peak seasons under her belt and a network of trusted fleet teams and professional drivers. And with that experience comes a greater understanding of the responsibility of playing Santa.
“If we don’t meet these [deadlines], people aren’t going to get gifts for Christmas,” she said. “You plan [loads], then you check them. You double check them. You triple check them. “Then in the morning, first thing, you check them again. You don’t want them to fail,” she said.
Back in Lithia Springs, Ga., the Lords have confirmation from Vanzant’s team for a load to pick up nearby, away from the logjam of downtown Atlanta. So it’s on to another stop, to pick up another load of toys and goodies – whatever it takes to see the sleigh emptied by Dec. 25.
For the Lords, though, Christmas won’t come until after the actual holiday, likely somewhere closer to Dec. 29. After months out on the road, they’ll finally spend some time back home in Florida, soaking up the warmer weather on sunny shores with their family.
They don’t mind not being home on Christmas day. Because, said Jason, for at least one day, it’s true what the old song says: on Dec. 25, the traffic is terrific.
“More freight gets where it needs to be, and I’m a little bit safer because nobody’s out on the roads,” he said.
It may not be a glamorous job, being a Comet, Cupid, Donnor or Blitzen in a world where Rudolph gets all the glory. But Rudolph sure couldn’t do it by himself.
“We enjoy it and do the best we can,” said Jason. “We trust in God and go with it.”
Click here to see Covenant's jobs on SmartPhoneTrucker!
This post is from Judy on Facebook. Please share it so Ginger can get home!!!
Ginger was lost on November 29th from the Flying J Hwy 242 New Caney, Tx, and Judy is offering a $500 reward if you can get her home.
Judy asks that you please call her (256-238-3932) if you see Ginger.
Thank you!
Red Eye Radio, Target Media Partners, Women In Trucking, and SmartPhoneTrucker team up to end the year on a very happy note for these nine drivers.
Nine truckers are having very happy holidays this year after being finalists in SmartPhoneTrucker’s Chance to Win $1 Million Contest. And the Intrepid Fallen Heroes Fund has received a $1,000 donation on behalf of Boyd Bros., Celadon, Forward Air, Marten Transport, Maverick Transportation, Melton Truck Lines, Mercer Transportation, and USA Truck, all motor carrier sponsors of the contest. “This contest was a big success for SmartPhoneTrucker,” said John Carter, publisher of SmartPhoneTrucker. “I’d like to thank Red Eye Radio, Target Media Partners, and Women In Trucking for being wonderful co-sponsors. We had a lot of fun, interacted with fantastic drivers, and we were able to make a nice donation to the Intrepid Fallen Heroes Fund and give some drivers really nice prizes.” Those prizes included NASCAR packages, laptops, big screen TVs, Playstations, and cash. Carter adds, “We were hoping one of the finalists would hit the lucky number and win the grand prize of one million dollars plus $100,000 for our veterans, but we’re happy that everyone won a nice consolation prize.” The drivers chosen at random as finalists were Edward O'Donnell (50-inch 1080p LED High Definition TV), Jessica Garza (PlayStation 4 Slim 1TB Console), Joyce Gilliland ($500 cash), Sky Hanstein (PlayStation 4 Slim 1TB Console), Talmadge Mitchell (NASCAR package), Donald Putnam (NASCAR package), Orison Rollins (50-inch 1080p LED High Definition TV), Jamison Smith (Samsung Galaxy 18.4-inch 32GB Wifi Tablet), and Sean Tripoli (Samsung Galaxy 18.4-inch 32GB Wifi Tablet). Red Eye Radio Network, hosted by Eric Harley and Gary McNamara, can be heard on over 240 AM/FM stations nationwide. Owned and operated by Westwood One Broadcasting, Red Eye Radio is a five hour nightly program airing Monday – Sunday between 1a-6a EST. Eric and Gary focus on the news of the day with a spin on how it affects the trucking industry. Drivers call in and participate with topics pertaining to their business, life and interests. In 2019, Red Eye Radio will celebrate its 50th Anniversary in entertaining drivers while keeping them safe and alert along the highways. You can tune into Red Eye live or on-demand through their AM/FM affiliates, podcasts, streaming, or free app through iTunes or Google Play. Target Media Partners offers digital and print solutions to help recruit professional drivers. Their print publications are distributed in top truck stop locations and travel centers nationwide. The Women In Trucking Association is a non-profit organization with the mission to encourage the employment of women in the trucking industry, promote their accomplishments, and minimize obstacles faced by women working in the industry. SmartPhoneTrucker.com offers drivers a fast, easy, and mobile-friendly way to find the best jobs where they live.
Millis Transfer Inc. is pleased to announce the addition of twelve new drivers to their One Million Mile Safe Driver Club. Along with the impressive driving accomplishments of these outstanding industry professionals, the company is extremely proud to recognize two additional drivers for their achievement in being named to the Millis Transfer Two Million Mile Safe Driver Club.
“Safety has always been a top priority for Millis Transfer. The diligence of these drivers is part of what makes Millis Transfer not only one of the best carriers in the industry, but one of the safest fleets on the road,” Dan Millis, Safety Director of Millis Transfer, said. “Our drivers demonstrate remarkable skill and precision, setting a standard that few ever accomplish. We extend our congratulations to each of these professionals. They are an exemplary part of our team and we are pleased to recognize this milestone in their careers.”
According to the American Trucking Association, the trucking industry moves more than 10.4 billion tons of freight annually. As that freight is transported, driving practices of professional drivers are tracked and reported on by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration and the Federal Highway Administration.
“Achieving one or two million safe miles makes a tremendous difference, not only for the safety of those on the highway, but for the consumers who rely on the trucking industry to deliver the goods they depend on in their daily lives,” Millis said. “Please join us in thanking each of these drivers for all that they do.”
The following drivers are the new members of the Millis Transfer fleet to successfully achieve one and two million safe mile status:
One Million Mile Safe Driver Club
- Paul Buckwald
- Kieran Chew
- Jon Cox
- Oscar Cummings
- William Dula
- Bernard Jankowski
- Larry Lacharite
- Douglas Niedfeldt
- Carl Roscoe
- Wade Slagle
- Gregory Waycott
- Michael Wheelock
- Andy Carrington
- Charles Taylor
Knoxville, Tennessee - Employees at Highway Transport locations nationwide are donating vacation days to colleagues at Highway Transport locations in La Porte, Texas and Freeport, Texas.
In the midst of Hurricane Harvey, Marshall Franklin, CFO of Highway Transport, created a leave donation program to assist employees who work at two of Highway Transport’s Texas locations directly impacted by Hurricane Harvey. Flooding continues, and employees need workplace weather disaster relief… relief in the form of income.
Today, employees working and living near Highway Transport LaPorte and Highway Transport Freeport can rest in the assurance that they will receive wages for days missed during the most intense phase of the storm.
“Hopefully, our locations in LaPorte and Freeport will be open soon, but the top concern is for human life. We want everyone to return to Highway Transport LaPorte and Highway Transport Freeport safely. As colleagues and friends, we want to do everything we can to help one another. Here at corporate headquarters in Knoxville, Tennessee, we’ve been receiving reports of employees who have lost homes and vehicles and property. Merly in LaPorte lost her car. The list of loss and destruction goes on and on. Everyone at all Highway Transport locations has been very worried about coworkers who live and work in the communities near Houston. “
Tropical Storm Harvey shifted back out into the Gulf of Mexico then came ashore one final time. The destructive storm ambled slowly over Houston then eastward at a pace of 3 to 5 miles per hour…basically, the speed of someone who is strolling. The slow pace of the system continues to elevate rain levels beyond all expectations.
Water levels continue to rise in many Houston neighborhoods. Highway Transport LaPorte and Highway Transport Freeport security camera images are encouraging, but these facilities are officially closed. Rescues are still taking place.
Plus, this is not the time for Highway Transport employees to attempt to maneuver around dangerous flood conditions. The official word from HR Director Jean Anne Dugger is, “Please take care. Your safety and well-being are most important.”
REMINDER: It is against Texas law to drive around barricades at flooded roads.
Highway Transport received the following update from LaPorte Service Center Manager Colin Bailey:
“My wife and I woke up to the water coming up to our second-floor apartment. So, we had to evacuate by boat, was a boat similar to what the NAVY Seals use to a local church, but now we are trying to get to my son's house in Spring. The rest of my operations team as well as many of our drivers can't get in to the SC. We are all safe but it may be well in to the weekend before we return to the SC. On behalf of my driver, operations, and shop/TW team your support and help is appreciated. We are truly a family.”
Highway Transport’s own Christina Nolan shares the following:
For Texas HTC employees and their families:
I lost everything in a tornado 12 years ago this November. Even though it wasn’t a flood, I know how devastating it can be to lose your home. I know this is a very stressful and painful time. I'm proud to be a part of the Highway family and that they have given us the opportunity to show our support by donating our vacation days to you. As grateful as I am to have the opportunity to help, I wish I could do more. My prayers are with you all for the strength to overcome the challenges you are facing.”
Highway Transport is a chemical tanker trucking company in operation since 1948 providing transportation of specialty chemicals throughout the United States and Canada. Highway’s tanker fleet has served chemical manufacturers with the highest quality service and equipment.
The longstanding perception of Highway Transport continues to be one of family and tradition.
Highway Transport has a presence in the following U.S. cities:
- Knoxville, TN
- Chattanooga, TN
- LaPorte, TX
- Freeport, TX
- Garland, TX
- McDonough, GA
- Croydon, PA
- Florence, KY
- Joliet, IL
- Wyandotte, MI
- Geismar, LA
- Pittsburgh, PA
DES MOINES, Iowa, September 21, 2017– Doug began his career at TMC in December of 2012 and worked for a little over a year to get some experience under his belt before becoming a trainer in January 2014. Training new hires was certainly Doug’s forte, as he spent 28 years in the military and was a trainer there as well. “I always liked it, so I knew it was only a matter of time before I wanted to do it here,” said Doug.
His military experience has helped him transition into his role at TMC. “All of the right tools and assets are always available,” he says. “There’s also that family oriented feeling, and you feel like you’re a part of something important.”
“Doug focuses on all of the company policies and processes and does his best to instill these into the guys he trains,” says Jeff Geist, Training Coordinator Manager. “He truly cares about TMC and the future of the drivers he trains.”
“The military taught me many ways to train, but I have to figure out what works best for each trainee and modify my training to each person,” says Doug. “I take a more ‘coaching’ approach, and give them the guidance they need when they need it.”
Doug makes sure that all of his trainees know he can be a point of contact, even when they are no longer in the truck with him. “I expect them to call me with questions they have when they are out on their own,” he says. “To me, this is a 24/7 job, even when I’m not on the road.”
For those who hope to train in the future, Doug says having patience is a must. Being a people person also helps and making sure you are training for the right reasons. “This job is a lifestyle,” Doug says. “You have to be able to commit to this lifestyle or it won’t work for you.”
Driver trainers are vital to the TMC training department, and each month a trainer is chosen who demonstrates the outstanding qualities TMC looks for in a trainer. The Trainer of the Month recipient is chosen based on their safety record and the safety performance of their trainees, the number of drivers trained and the retention percentage of those drivers. Congratulations to our July 2017 Trainer of the Month, Doug McNeel!
About TMC
TMC Transportation is the nation’s largest employee-owned flatbed transportation company. TMC provides expert transportation services and supply-chain management solutions throughout the 48 contiguous states. Founded in 1972, TMC is headquartered in Des Moines, Iowa, and is known for its integrity, innovation, superior safety record and dedication to quality and customer service. The company’s claim-free, on-time delivery record is the best in the business and is consistently recognized by its customers. Visit us at www.tmctrans.com.
Lone Star's parent company, Daseke, has earmarked an estimated $10 million in stock to invest in their employees!
Click here to read an article that includes a radio interview with Daseke CEO Don Daseke, who talks about this exciting new plan on KLRD Radio.
Want to learn more about Lone Star? Click here to visit their profile page.
Des Moines, Iowa-based TMC has named Ed Dolsen Trainer of the Month for April 2017. Ed started with TMC back in 2009 after coming back from deployment. He found TMC by doing some research and decided to apply. After starting to work for TMC, Ed was injured during another deployment and had to take a break from work. He decided to take a job locally when he was able to work again, but shortly came back to TMC.
“The money, respect, and equipment of the other company I was at were subpar, which brought me back to TMC,” said Ed.
He became a trainer in 2010 and has been a valuable asset to the training team ever since. “I wanted to do my part to get new drivers trained the right way,” said Ed.
Ed values the relationships that he forms with his trainees. In fact, that is one of his favorite parts about being a trainer. “Most of my trainees have maintained contact with me since they got their own truck,” he says. “I really like building these new relationships, since it’s hard to meet people out on the road sometimes.”
“Ed goes the extra mile to make sure his guys are well prepared to handle this new career,” says Jeff Geist, Training Coordinator Manager. “He ensures they know he is there for help and support if they need it.”
Ed is no stranger to the stresses that over-the-road trucking can bring, especially for new drivers with families back home. “I try to keep a pattern when I train, and I try to make it as low-stress as possible,” he says. “I do my best to keep things light when it’s appropriate, while also maintaining instruction.”
Building strong friendships with his trainees, keeping things light, and being patient have been the keys to Ed’s success. “You don’t always get along with your trainees, but you can’t let that get in the way,” he says. “As long as I teach them how to do the job right and they walk away with that knowledge, then I’ve done my job.”
Driver trainers are vital to the TMC training department, and each month a trainer is chosen who demonstrates the outstanding qualities TMC looks for in a trainer. The Trainer of the Month recipient is chosen based on their safety record and the safety performance of their trainees, the number of drivers trained and the retention percentage of those drivers.
Congratulations to TMC's April 2017 Trainer of the Month, Ed Dolsen!
About TMC
TMC Transportation is the nation’s largest employee-owned flatbed transportation company. TMC provides expert transportation services and supply-chain management solutions throughout the 48 contiguous states. Founded in 1972, TMC is headquartered in Des Moines, Iowa, and is known for its integrity, innovation, superior safety record and dedication to quality and customer service. The company’s claim-free, on-time delivery record is the best in the business and is consistently recognized by its customers.
Visit their webpage at www.tmctrans.com or see their profile on SmartPhoneTrucker by clicking here.
Have you heard the latest news from Forward Air? They're looking for top Owner Operators to run OTR, Dedicated and Expedited Routes. Sign-On Bonuses up to $5k. Lease Purchase Program Available.
Click here to visit the Forward Air page and learn more!
Forward Air Driver Appreciation Events are kicking off on September 2nd, and the company is holding events all over the U.S.
Join them as they show how much they appreciate their Fleet Partners, Company Drivers & all the wonderful men and women who make it possible for Forward Air Transportation Services to be the industry leading carrier of choice!
DATE LOCATION(S) TIME / NOTES
- September 2nd Salt Lake City, UT / Denver, CO Donuts & Pizza
- September 6th - 9th Tulsa, OK Bagged Lunch on Outbound Routes
- September 6th - 9th Oklahoma City, OK Bagged Lunch on Outbound Routes
- September 6th - 9th Laredo, TX Coffee & Donuts in the AM and Refreshments & Appetizers throughout the week
- September 7th Harrisburg, PA Cookout Dinner 11 PM - 3 AM
- September 7th * *Kansas City, MO * * Lunch
- September 9th & 12th McAllen, TX Donuts on the 9th / Cookout on the 12th
- September 9th Phoenix, AZ Donuts & Pizza
- September 9th Chicago, IL (ORD) Nighttime Dinner
- September 11th - 12th Portland, OR Pizza on the 11th (PM) / Donuts on the 12th (AM)
- September 11th - 17th All Solutions Locations Lunch Cook-out - Burgers & Hot Dogs
- September 12th San Diego, CA / Las Vegas, NV Donuts & Pizza / Breakfast
- September 12th - 16th All CST Locations Cook-Out
- September 13th - 15th * * Columbus, OH * * Breakfast & Lunch Cook-Out
- September 13th Des Moines, IA Breakfast
- September 14th Cedar Rapids, IA See Manager for Details
- September 14th Jacksonville, FL Breakfast Sandwiches & Pizza for Lunch
- September 15th Detroit, MI / Cleveland, OH / Houston, TX Donuts & Pizza / Cookout / Cookout
- September 15th Miami, FL Pizza & Snacks 5 PM - 7 PM
- September 15th Austin, TX Donuts & Coffee in the AM
- September 15th - 16th New Orleans, LA Donuts & Pizza
- September 16th San Antonio, TX BBQ Dinner
- September 19th * * Los Angeles, CA * * / Moline, IL Lunch / Donuts & Sandwiches
- September 20th Charlotte, NC / Indianapolis, IN Breakfast / Late Dinner, Early Breakfast 11 PM - 4 AM
- September 21st Evansville, IN Lunch & Dinner
- September 21st * * Sacramento, CA * * Lunch 11 AM - 4 PM
- September 22nd Rock Tavern, NY Dinner 11 PM - 3 AM
- September 23rd Memphis, TN Lunch & Dinner
- September 23rd El Paso, TX Lunch & Dinner
- Septmeber 26th - 27th * * Atlanta, GA * * Lunch & Dinner
- October 4th - 5th Dallas, TX Lunch
Boyd Brothers Transportation, Inc. guarantees $900 a week for 8 weeks for new drivers that join their company.
Clayton, Alabama. Starting a new career in transportation should be exciting and fulfilling, that’s why Boyd Bros. implemented a $900 per week guarantee earlier this year. The program was designed to take the uncertainty out of changing carriers and has really made an impact with drivers. The $900 per week guarantee allows drivers to shift from van to flatbed without financial risk.
Transitioning to Boyd has never been easier now that Boyd Bros. gives drivers an opportunity to polish their flatbed techniques and get comfortable with their new role. Drivers now have the assurance that they will have ample time to learn the system and be successful. Jeff Hopkins, Boyd Bros. VP of Operations said, “We implemented the minimum pay for the first few weeks of truck assignment to give a level of security to our newest drivers that will protect them financially from situations that might be detrimental to them in the first few weeks of transitioning to Boyd Bros. We extended the period to 8 weeks as an added level of security to help with the transition.”
Boyd Bros is happy to take the risk out of making a career change. Chris Cooper, President of Boyd Companies said, “Guaranteeing a base pay for 8 weeks, helps our team members take their time learning a new company. This also sets a baseline pay for their family, that’s easily attainable once they become acclimated with their new professional home. The average Boyd driver makes much more than our $900 guarantee.”
Founded in 1956. Boyd Brothers Transportation, Inc., an Alabama based flatbed truckload carrier that provides OTR, regional and logistics services throughout North America. To find out more about Boyd Bros. Transportation or to apply for a driving position, visit www.driveforboyd.com or contact a recruiter today by calling 888-485-8717.
If you're near Louisville, KY, consider visiting the Mid-America Trucking Show, held each year at the Kentucky Exposition Center in Louisville. The show attracts 70,000 attendees and 1,000+ exhibitors from throughout the United States and abroad and is the largest annual heavy-duty trucking industry event in the world.
MATS runs through Saturday, April 2nd, at 4pm. Check out the photos below, and be sure to visit these companies if you make it to the show. If you can't attend, look for many of the show's top employers right here on SmartPhoneTrucker.
Visit Boyd Bros. at the Mid America Truck Show, booth 67057. Ask about Boyd's 2 cent per mile Christmas bonus and $900 per week guarantee! Click the image below to learn more.
Roadrunner offers Intermodal Opportunities for CDL-A Company Truck Drivers and the chance to be home every day! Click the image below to learn more.
Owner Operators can earn a $3,000 Sign On Bonus at Atlas. Visit Atlas at booth 69077. Click the image below to learn more.
Regional, dedicated, and a whole lot more! Visit JBS Carriers at booth 66188. Click the image below to learn more.
You can learn more about the companies below by visiting their booths at MATS.
Visit Averitt Express at booth 62020.
Visit Knight Transportation at booth 69196.
Visit NFI at booth 63032.
Visit XPO Logistics at booth 65052.
Visit Walmart at booth number 63016.
Roadrunner offers Intermodal Opportunities for CDL-A Company Truck Drivers and the chance to be home every day! Click the image below to learn more.
Owner Operators can earn a $3,000 Sign On Bonus at Atlas. Visit Atlas at booth 69077. Click the image below to learn more.
Regional, dedicated, and a whole lot more! Visit JBS Carriers at booth 66188. Click the image below to learn more.
You can learn more about the companies below by visiting their booths at MATS.
Visit Averitt Express at booth 62020.
Visit Knight Transportation at booth 69196.
Visit NFI at booth 63032.
Visit XPO Logistics at booth 65052.
Visit Walmart at booth number 63016.
Maverick USA, Inc. has announced the pending retirement of Stephen Selig, President and Chief Operating Officer (COO). Selig will retire from the company effective December 31, 2015. John Culp, who currently serves as Maverick’s Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, will assume the role of President and COO on January 1, 2016.
Selig has been the company's President and COO since January 1, 2001. He joined Maverick in 1984 as a Sales Manager. At that time, Maverick posted sales of $5.1 million and operated approximately 50 tractors.
Maverick’s Chairman and CEO Steve Williams commented that, "Stephen has led our organization as President for half of his 32 years; through some very challenging times. The cornerstone of his leadership has been his personal character and work ethic which has gained the respect and trust of our employees, our customers, and our competitors."
Culp joined Maverick in 1989 as Vice President of Finance and was named Executive Vice President and CFO in 1995. "I am excited to have this opportunity to lead Maverick, particularly given current industry challenges and the unprecedented opportunities that come with them,” he said. "Over the next few years I think our industry will experience step change of a magnitude not seen since trucking was deregulated in 1980. Our management team is well positioned to seize these opportunities and is committed to continue to provide our customers the value added transportation services they expect.”
Founded in 1980, based in Little Rock, Arkansas, and operating over 1,500 units, Maverick provides OTR and dedicated service to the flatbed, glass, and temperature controlled transportation markets throughout North America. To learn more about Maverick Transportation visit the website at http://www.drivemaverick.com. You can also connect with Maverick on Facebook or on Twitter.
The Findlay Courier reports that Penske is bringing 25 trucking jobs to Findlay, Ohio, and possibly 75 within a year, as Penske Logistics sets up operations on Findlay’s northern end.
The Penske trucking jobs will pay $60,000 to $70,000 per year on average, a 401(k) and a $3,000 signing bonus. Performance bonuses also will be offered.
Click here to read more ... or click here to see Penske jobs on SmartPhoneTrucker!
The Penske trucking jobs will pay $60,000 to $70,000 per year on average, a 401(k) and a $3,000 signing bonus. Performance bonuses also will be offered.
Click here to read more ... or click here to see Penske jobs on SmartPhoneTrucker!
Every SmartPhoneTrucker listing has a green button like this:
Once you click the green button, at the bottom of each ad, you’ll see a strip of share buttons like this:
When you share your ads via Facebook, Twitter, and Google+, you extend their reach enormously and make them easier for drivers to find.
It’s one more way to get even more hires from your SmartPhoneTrucker listings. Do you have a good idea that you’d like to share? Send it to us at Support@SmartPhoneTrucker.com.
Once you click the green button, at the bottom of each ad, you’ll see a strip of share buttons like this:
When you share your ads via Facebook, Twitter, and Google+, you extend their reach enormously and make them easier for drivers to find.
It’s one more way to get even more hires from your SmartPhoneTrucker listings. Do you have a good idea that you’d like to share? Send it to us at Support@SmartPhoneTrucker.com. 
Maverick USA, Inc. has announced the acquisition of Flanary and Sons Trucking, Inc. (FAST), based in Church Hill, TN. Through the purchase, Maverick acquired substantially all of the assets of FAST, including approximately 75 tractors and 175 trailers.
FAST, founded in 1984 by Curtis Flanary, is privately held and family owned. The company services the architectural flat glass market in both the United States and Canada.
While founder Curtis Flanary will be retiring, Shon Flanary, the company’s President, and his brothers, Aaron and Andre Flanary, will join Maverick with the acquisition and continue to work out of the office located in Church Hill, TN.
"With increasing regulatory and industry challenges, we felt joining a larger company with greater resources provided the best long term growth opportunity for FAST,” said Shon Flanary. “We are confident this acquisition will allow our employees to grow and the company to better serve the glass industry.”
Stephen Selig, President and COO of Maverick said, "FAST is an outstanding glass carrier that shares the same core values and desire for excellence that Maverick does. We are very excited to combine our expertise and resources with that of FAST to offer our customers premier specialized glass freight services throughout North America."
Maverick USA, Inc. is the parent company of Maverick Transportation, LLC based in Little Rock, Arkansas. Maverick operates over 1,400 units providing OTR and dedicated services to the flatbed, glass, and temperature controlled transportation markets throughout North America.
For more information, visit www.maverickusa.com or call (800) 289-6600. You can also connect with Maverick on Facebook or on Twitter.
Omaha-based Werner Enterprises has announced a Dedicated Local runs for driver living within 40 miles of Dallas, Texas or Ardmore, Oklahoma. The position pays a $2,500 sign-on bonus for qualified drivers, and offers weekly home time. The company reports average annual earnings of $50,000, with solos averaging $52,000 per year and trainers averaging $75,000 per year. (more…)
Maverick Transportation has recently announced several changes to their driver pay scale for 2015, including pay for experience and significant increases to mileage pay in all divisions. These pay increases will impact all incoming and current drivers and became effective January 4th, 2015.
With Maverick’s new pay for experience program, drivers with at least one year of over the road driving experience will be slotted in higher starting pay ranges, and these rates will increase for each year of verifiable driving experience. These increases will bring experienced drivers W2 pay averages to between $60,800 and $66,500 depending on how many years of experience and what division they drive in.
Drivers without experience that come in as part of Maverick’s industry leading student program also received mileage increases. Students that come to Maverick with a brand new Class A CDL or less than 6 months of driving experience can now expect to average over $53,000 their first year. Those that come to Maverick with 6-12 months of experience will average closer to $57,500.
Many of Maverick’s dedicated accounts also received pay increases.
“This is a significant pay increase across the board for all Maverick drivers,” said Director of Recruiting Brad Vaughn. “We are looking for the most professional and safest drivers on the road. Maverick’s pay package, extra incentives for experienced drivers, training, equipment, and overall recruiting package is truly second to none.”
This announcement comes on the heels of the Grand Opening of Maverick’s new $3.5 million driver training center, their new introductory pay for performance program, and their recent announcement regarding a partnership with Arkansas State University (Newport) to sponsor students looking to obtain their Class A CDL for the first time.
Founded in 1980, based in Little Rock, Arkansas, and operating over 1,400 units, Maverick provides OTR and dedicated service to the flatbed, glass, and temperature controlled transportation markets throughout North America. To learn more about driving opportunities or specific pay scales available with Maverick Transportation, call the recruiting department at 800-289-1100 or visit the website at www.maverickusa.com. You can also connect with Maverick on Facebook or on Twitter @drivemaverick.
The Women In Trucking Association’s primary purpose is to increase the percentage of women in the trucking industry. In an effort to provide exposure to young girls who might not have considered a career in trucking, we initiated a Transportation Patch for the Girl Scouts of America.
In partnership with the Girl Scouts of Greater Chicago and Northwest Indiana, the curriculum was designed to provide the girls with insight into the trucking industry. The event was planned for October 13th, which was Columbus Day and there was no school scheduled.
Olive-Harvey College in the southeast Chicago area hosted the event and provided a meeting area for the girls to listen and learn about trucking, as well as two tractor-trailers for the girls to climb in and learn about. Joanne Ivory is the Associate Dean of the college and coordinated the event.
The day began with a welcome from Ms. Harvey in the auditorium, followed by a short talk about careers in the trucking industry by Women In Trucking President/CEO, Ellen Voie. A video about trucks was provided by J. J. Keller & Associates, Inc.
The keynote speaker was Dr. H. Lenora Hardee, who talked about her job as Chief Technical Engineer at Navistar, Inc. Dr. Hardee told the girls about the importance of truck cab design and how it relates both to comfort for the driver as well as aerodynamics and fuel efficiency. She explained that a proper fit is crucial and asked the younger girls if they felt comfortable in the auditorium chairs when their feet couldn’t reach the floor. She showed them photos of mannequins in cabs and how the pedals, steering, and seats must allow the driver to be able to reach all of them.
The girls were then led outside to where to tractor-trailers were parked and numerous instructors were available to talk to them about the skills needed to drive a truck. Older Scouts were allowed to climb into the trucks and see the view from the driver’s seat. They learned about the parts of the tractor and trailer and the importance of maintaining the equipment for efficiency and safety.
Ms. Ivory had activities ready for the girls when they returned to the auditorium. First, they were given maps and asked to identify things on the maps and to look at the geography of the rivers, roads, and state borders. They were then provided with cardboard trucks to assemble and to take home after the event.
Averitt Express provided a pizza lunch and snacks of chips were donated by Frito-Lay. The Girls Scout Troop provided fruit drinks for the Scouts and their chaperones.
At the end of the event, each Girl Scout was presented with the first ever Transportation Patch for her sash. They were all surprised to receive goodie bags from Women In Trucking Association with items from corporate members and sponsors. The cost of the patches was paid for by C. H. Robinson, Inc.
There were eighty-four girls ranging in age from four to thirteen who attended the Girl Scout day at Olive-Harvey College. Accompanying the girls were many moms and dads who were also told about potential jobs available in the trucking industry.
The day was truly a historical opportunity to launch an initiative that will introduce the next generation of girls to careers as drivers, mechanics, engineers, managers and company owners.
Women In Trucking Association and the Girls Scouts of Greater Chicago and Northwest Indiana have finalized the curriculum, which will be shared with troops across the country that can offer the same patch in their area.
We are truly proud of initiating this opportunity to share the trucking industry and its importance to these girls. More importantly, we are supporting our mission to increase the percentage of women employed in the trucking industry by introducing these girls to career opportunities at a young age.
For more information about the Transportation Patch and how to present the curriculum to your local troops, call Women In Trucking Association at 888-464-9482.
Interstate Distributor, a trucking company known for its commitment to safety, service and operational excellence, has launched its new Maintenance Support program for Owner Operators and Lease Purchase drivers.
Interstate’s primary goal is to offer several choices for Operators when signing on with the company. The new Maintenance Support program is the newest option available to save Operators money on repairs and receive discounts on labor, parts and tires. The program also offers Operators the option to establish a pre-paid Maintenance Fund to use for future expenses.
Highlights of the program include a $1,000 sign on bonus applied to the Owner Operator’s Maintenance Fund, $75 per hour shop rate at the company’s maintenance facilities, discounted pricing on repair parts and tire purchases, and Interstate corporate pricing at thousands of vendors. Owner Operators also receive the option to make weekly contributions to their Maintenance Fund as well as optional tow and breakdown coverage.
“Breakdowns are the single largest contributor to Owner Operator failures,” said Interstate Distributors’ Vice President of Maintenance Martin Singh. “Interstate is committed to leveraging our size and corporate discounts to provide Operators competitive services, parts and support. By cutting costs to our Operators, they are more successful and can continue to build their business.”
Operators are able to establish their own Maintenance Fund by designating a transfer of existing funds or by deducting a fixed amount from their settlements. Funds are accepted at Interstate’s shops as well as some external vendors. Operators also receive free annual DOT inspections on their anniversary month.
Interstate Distributor has experienced solid growth this year as it expands operations, divisions and customer service in support of its Fortune 500 customer base. In order to keep up with demand, the company continues to focus on partnering with Owner Operators, Lease Purchase candidates and small to medium-sized carriers with their own authority.
About Interstate Distributor Co.
Headquartered in Tacoma, Wash., Interstate Distributor Co. is a preferred carrier of choice for driving associates and many Fortune 500 companies. Interstate has terminals and facilities located in major markets throughout the United States, Western Canada and along the Mexican border to support regional and transcontinental business. Additional divisions include dedicated fleets, expedited teams, specialized and refrigerated equipment and intermodal service. At Interstate we proudly provide a safety first culture and family friendly culture.
For more information, see Interstate Distributor ads on www.SmartPhoneTrucker.com or visit www.DriveInterstate.com.
Welcome to the better-than-ever SmartPhoneTrucker! For our fourth anniversary, we’ve upgraded nearly every aspect of our site, and we hope the result is a website that you’ll like even more!
We still allow drivers to browse all of our truck driving jobs, with the latest jobs at the top of the list. Or you can search by city, driver type, freight type, run type, or company. We think it’s the best way to help professional drivers find motor carriers with high-paying trucking jobs, steady freight and quality home time in their own back yard.
Enjoy, and happy job hunting!