In case you are considering a career in the trucking industry, it is crucial to conduct thorough research to evade affiliating with some of the poorest trucking companies that subject their drivers to hazardous and unlawful circumstances. Without caution, you might end up working extended hours with minimal compensation, sleeping in your truck at truck stops, and persistently fretting about being involved in an accident. The following are the names of the companies you should avoid at all costs when seeking employment in the trucking industry:
- Swift Transportation
- Crete Carrier Corporation
- Knight-Swift Transportation Holdings, Inc.
- Schneider National, Inc.
- J.B. Hunt Transport Services Inc.
What Is the Best Trucking Company To Drive For?
The most favorable trucking company to work for is one that prioritizes the safety and value of its drivers, providing them with adequate compensation, reasonable working hours or overtime pay, and a secure work atmosphere that offers life insurance coverage in case of accidents. The following are some esteemed trucking companies that drivers would find worthwhile to work for, listed in no specific order:
- US Xpress
- Covenant Transport
- Werner Enterprises
- Dart Transit Company
- TMC Transportation
How Can I Tell if a Trucking Company Is Worth Driving For?
With numerous trucking companies available, it can be challenging to determine which one would be the most suitable for you. Here are some aspects to consider when selecting a trucking company:
- Opt for a company that values its employees and prioritizes their well-being.
- Choose a company that invests in quality equipment to ensure driver safety.
- Look for a company that offers competitive compensation, comprehensive benefits, and tuition reimbursement programs.
- Find a company that provides opportunities for training and professional development.
- Consider a company that fosters a healthy work environment that does not subject drivers to excessive pressure or stress.
Do they offer the type of job you’re looking for?
It is essential to consider the type of job offered by the trucking company before making a decision. Some companies specialize in long-haul routes, while others prioritize local deliveries. Select a company that aligns with your job preferences and allows you to have a work-life balance. It is vital to have time for leisure activities like spending time with family and friends or pursuing hobbies. Choose a job that provides motivation for you to be productive each day and avoid one that leaves you feeling drained.
Do they have a good reputation?
It is crucial to choose a company with a good reputation and a track record of taking responsibility for any unexpected situations that may occur in the future, such as worker negligence or road accidents. To ensure that you are making the right decision, conduct research on the company’s online reviews and talk to other drivers to get their opinions on whether the company treats its employees well. Always select a company that shows appreciation for the hard work that you do.
What benefits do they offer?
Although health insurance, retirement plans, and paid vacation days are typical benefits offered by trucking companies, each company may have its own unique benefits package. Therefore, it is vital to conduct thorough research before applying to a specific company to ensure that you can enjoy the perks of working in the trucking industry.
On the other hand, it is also important to note that there are some trucking companies in the United States that have poor compensation packages, with some paying drivers as little as below the minimum wage.
What Trucking Company Has the Most Accidents?
In recent years, the number of fatal truck accidents in the United States has been increasing, with almost 4,000 recorded in 2017 alone. Unfortunately, trucking companies are not obligated to report accidents to the federal government, and some opt not to make their accident records public. Consequently, it can be difficult to obtain an accurate picture of companies with poor safety records for accidents. Nevertheless, according to the FMCSA Safety and Fitness Electronic Records (SAFER) System, here are some trucking companies with a history of commonly reported accidents:
- United Parcel Service, Inc.
- Swift Transportation
- J.B. Hunt Transport Services, Inc.
- Schneider National, Inc.
- Covenant Transport
- Werner Enterprises
- FedEx Ground
- YRC, Inc.
- Averitt Express
- CRST Expedited, Inc.
Conclusion
If you’re interested in pursuing a career in the trucking industry, it’s crucial to make a well-informed decision. Start by researching companies that not only offer a pleasant working environment but also prioritize your well-being, both mentally and physically. Look for a company that values its workforce and compensates them competitively with benefits. Additionally, it’s important to choose a business that has a solid reputation, operates legally within the state, and possesses the necessary permits and licenses.
