Before the economy turned sour, experienced drivers could switch carriers like frenzied shoppers racing from bargain to bargain. While "A list" drivers are still very much in demand, fleet managers say they've dropped job hoppers to the "B" category
- second choice behind applicants with a record of job stability.
That makes choosing the "right" carrier more important than ever. Pay, of course, is important and that's where most people look first. But don't forget to carefully investigate each company's "perks:" benefits such as insurance and paid vacations, extras such as rider programs and communications tools, and special attention to your personal needs like getting drivers home.
Starting in the January issue, RoadStar magazine is delving into benefits offered by trucking companies: things to look for and how to compare.
In the January issue, Senior Editor Pat Smith says drivers should start out by listing the things that are important to them: regular and extra pay, bonuses, insurance, retirement savings, vacations and holidays, rider programs and the like. Throughout the year, Smith and other RoadStar editors will take a closer look at these topics and how to pick a carrier whose priorities most closely match your own - a carrier you can stay with for a long time and avoid the "job hopper" label.