I'm a newbie to trucking looking for a company through CAD. I have to Central Refrigerated (also located in my home state of NY), Knight, Maverick, PGT, Prime and TMC. I also applied to Covenant but found out they do not offer a training program for newbies (have their own school---oops!) Can anyone recommend or comment on who is good/who to stay away from? Also, are there other companies I should be looking at? Also, when one applies how long does it typically take before companies start calling (I know, it's not instant but is is days, weeks or months)? Appreciate any feedback. Craig

You might give us some insight into yourself. You mentioned everything from Van, Refrigerated, and Flatbed. (Stay away from Prime they will end up talking you into a lease).

Company you choose doesnt have to have a terminal in your home state. They just have to beable to hire from it. Most starting companies should beable to accomadate you from New York.

What kind of freight do you desire to haul?

Also try "search" CAD for the companies you are interested in, most all companies have had posts related to them.

Thanks. I'll do the search. As for companies...no, they do not need to be out of NY. You asked for more about myself---as a newbie to trucking I realize I don't have a lot of choices and will need to put in 6 - 8 months before I do so I'm open on the type of truck---reffer, etc. I'd prefer not to be out more then 15 days (a week would be great) but again, realize I am new and will have to give now to get later. I'll stay away from Prime but if anyone has any feedback on the others and...is it typically days, weeks or months before companies start calling? Craig

I can eliminate one company right off the bat......Knight.
They do not take students. You have to have 4 months experience to get hired on there.

www.wksh.com
they take/train students, have a terminal in NJ and will keep you moving, a great company to drive for IMHO.
Tell 'em 1807 sent ya
Oh ya, vans/flats, mostly drop/hook at terminals.

I had applied with CR England, Sheppard Watkins, and Schneider. I got phone calls from all three within 48 hours. CR England and Schneider both have their own CDL schools.

Sheppard Watkins will co-sign a loan for you and put you through a school like Roadmaster. All of them will hire no expeience drivers. CR England is discouraged by most in the industry.

I am giving it a go for other reasons if you are interested you can follow my journey at: http://classadrivers.com/blogs/knightrider

Good Luck

I'd like to thank everyone for their replies to my newbie questions regarding companies to apply with/avoid. Please, if anyone has any additional advice (on companies, or any suggestions for a newbie to lookf for/ask) I would appreciate it.

A great site with great feedback, topics and I'm sure, great truckers.

Craig