[jizface]

I am retireing from driving the big truck down sizing to a cargo van there are many choices I am leaning towards FED EX they want aprox 500 dollars start up costs 50 per week for qual comm&insurance suppose to generate 1.15 per mile avg any positive or neg feeedback welcome second choice is tri state 3rd choice is Panther 4rth is Thompson

[terryandrene]

Every company ever mentioned on this site has been the best and the worst, depending on informed, and sometimes uninformed, opinion of the writer. The companies you have on you A-list are among the favorites in the order listed. Your hometown is a busy area for all of them and I suspect you should be able to get runs in and out of the area with good frequency.

I suggest your next stop be to the Detroiter for the Expedite Expo next month. You should be able to get all the answers you need from recruiters and drivers, all in the same location. Time and money well spent

Terry

[davekc]

I would stick with the bigger companies as they would have the resourses to get you out of slower areas or the south. As Terry mentioned, go to the Expo and talk to the drivers and recruiters so you can get an informed decision. Most are great people and very approachable. If that is not an option, hit some of the truck stops in your area and see what they have to say.
Don't base the opinion of a company on one driver. Talk to many.
In addition, some companies only put vans on at certain times of the year. Just something to keep in mind.

[X1_SRH]

When talking to a company try and find out exactly what types of freight they deal with, and in what balance. If a company deals primarily in automotive freight, the automotive industry will dictate the fluctuations in the amount of available freight (and your income). A company with a mix of different types of freight will make the busy season last longer and keep the slow times from being so slow. Most importantly, try to establish a relationship with your points of contact at a specific company. You will quickly get a feeling for how you will be treated in the future. The Expo is a great place to do your research - and all drivers won't be happy with every company. To a certain degree it is a matter of personal preference. Just find someplace you feel comfortable and you should be off to a good start.