Things to Consider When Choosing the Right Freight

There are different types of freight when it comes to delivery jobs, varying from cargo size to mode of transport. Drivers should keep that in mind when skimming the job details of every post. Deciding what kind of trucking you want to engage in may seem a little confusing. 

Browse through to find out the factors you should consider when making the big decision.

Personal Interest

Prioritize yourself when considering the type of freight you want as your responsibility. With that mindset, contemplate the pay, availability, and haul type a company will be assigning to you. Ask yourself if you’re comfortable with the details, and be honest. This is especially important when you have a family you need to tend to. Hitting the road for weeks on end might not be particularly ideal for you.

Don’t be afraid to inquire and see whether or not you’re up to the task. You aren’t falling short by declining a certain job; there’s one out there that will perfectly suit you.

Carrier Size

There are big and small companies; both have their advantages and disadvantages. Although Amazon delivery driver jobs may seem attractive due to the consistency of freight volumes, it can feel isolating to be on such a huge team. A small carrier offers intimacy in a team but may have more irregularities with their freight.

The company you choose will also determine the group of customers and route you may be dealing with every day. Choose wisely and remember to apply for what makes you feel comfortable.

Experience

Jobs do have their own qualifications listed down on the posting. If you’re newer to the industry, it’s likely that you’re positioned to have a limited amount of options compared to a freight driver who’s been employed for over a decade. 

Endorsements and referrals will come in handy when it comes to the hiring process. Undergo training to have a senior figure vouch for your abilities as a driver. It’s imperative to be eager in order to earn responsibilities from skeptical employers.

Types of Freight

After thinking about all the other factors, it all comes down to what freight you’ll settle on. Here’s a quick rundown of five freight options you’ll have to choose from.

• Dry Van - Dry Van is simplistic and perfect for starting truck drivers. Cargo is usually delivered in 53’ trailers through the road. It’s also the most common freight companies work with.
• Refrigerated trucking - Also known as Reefer trucking, this is good for slightly experienced drivers. Food and groceries are transported, making this industry job more secure than others. Driving hours tend to vary, but they’re commonly at nighttime. 
• Flatbed - Drivers of this freight regularly earn more as their job needs more physical work in loading and transporting. Cargo is often secured with tarps, which can prove to be challenging but also fulfilling. 
• Tanker - Tanker trucks can be hauling dry bulk such as food or cement. Tankers can also contain liquids ranging from gasoline to water. You must have a tanker endorsement to handle hazardous materials.
• Specialty Loads - This category is for freight types that can’t be categorized under common hauls. Specialty loads can range from anything from livestock to office equipment.

Conclusion

When you finally accept a delivery job, try to plan for the long-term. Inconsistent load and pay, along with sporadically switching from job to job, may affect your stability. Keep your head up, and you’ll get recruited for your dream work.

To browse for truck driving jobs, visit DriversPost. View over 90,000 jobs in transportation as we connect recruiters and drivers with ease. Sign up and apply today!