Top Trucking Companies: Finding Carriers That Put Drivers First
Driven Too Far: The Truth About Trucking
Release Date: 03/10/2025
Driven Too Far: The Truth About Trucking
Discover the hidden consequences of workplace injuries for truck drivers. This episode exposes how a work injury drastically cuts your wages, creates immense financial stress, and can permanently alter your career. Learn why safety measures exist to protect your livelihood and family, and how seemingly minor incidents can lead to years of hardship. Check us out at . This podcast is produced by .
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Truck parking is a significant challenge for drivers, impacting hours, productivity, and safety. This episode addresses the struggle of finding overnight spots on the road and secure parking at home. We explore new solutions like private parking networks, discuss strategies for working with shippers and carriers, and share practical advice for planning ahead to avoid fines, tows, and accidents. Check us out at . This podcast is produced by .
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Considering a truck lease? This episode is for first-time lease operators ready to take control of their trucking career. We tackle the tough questions: Is leasing right for you? What kind of pay models exist? And how can you avoid common pitfalls? Get ready to understand contracts, compare programs, and develop the mindset of a successful small business owner in the trucking industry. Check us out at . This podcast is produced by .
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Ever wonder why you're always waiting on dispatch? In this episode, Andrew pulls back the curtain to reveal the complex process behind securing your next load. Explaining the critical differences between contract and spot market freight, highlighting the financial implications of each. Learn about the meticulous steps dispatchers take, from vetting brokers and negotiating rates to ensuring timely pickups and deliveries. Hidden challenges of credit checks, paperwork, and even sneaky fine print that can cause delays. This episode offers drivers a crucial understanding of the efforts...
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Medical Disclaimer: All information provided in this episode are for informational purposes only. Do not use this information as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have questions about or are considering using any drugs, therapies, or peptides, please consult with your physician or other qualified healthcare provider. The demanding trucking lifestyle can take a serious toll on health, as tragically highlighted by the recent passing of a young driver. In this episode Andrew tackles driver health and longevity...
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Are you a military veteran looking for a new career? In this episode, we explore how trucking companies are actively recruiting the nation's heroes through veteran apprenticeship programs. Chief Carriers recruiter, Mandee Lade, joins us to discuss the benefits of these programs, including using the GI Bill for income substitution and gaining valuable skills. Highlighting how veterans' inherent discipline, mission-driven mindset, and comfort with solitude make them ideal candidates for trucking roles like drivers, dispatchers, and diesel technicians. Learn how these programs ease...
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Ever wonder if your safe driving actually pays off? In this episode, you'll discover how a real safety culture protects you and your career, and learn how some companies actively reward safe driving behaviors with tangible benefits. Chief Carriers Safety Manager Brett Kleier joins us to show the red flags and how to identify companies that genuinely prioritize your safety through CSA scores and their online presence. We also unveil how innovative programs like the Red Hat and Safety 360 actively reward safe driving, putting money back in your pocket. If you're craving a...
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Ever wonder what a dispatcher's day is really like? Andrew pulls back the curtain on the often-unseen world of truck dispatch with veteran dispatcher John Steffes. Discover the daily chaos, unexpected challenges, and constant balancing act of driver needs and customer demands. John shares insights into why it can be tough to reach dispatch and reveals the biggest frustrations they face. Learn the crucial role of communication and trust in the driver-dispatcher relationship for a smoother and more successful journey on the road. Takeaways Dispatching is chaotic and...
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Does your truck reflect your professionalism? The condition of your rig can influence how you're perceived by your company and even impact equipment assignments. In this episode, Andrew emphasizes the importance of taking pride in your semi-truck, explaining how it serves as a rolling billboard for you, your company, and the entire industry. Learn how the positive first impressions a clean and well-maintained truck can make at shippers, scales, and truck stops. Taking pride in your ride goes beyond aesthetics and speaks volumes about your professionalism and attention to detail....
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What did we learn in 123 episodes of navigating the truth about the trucking industry? Wrapping up season one of Driven Too Far, Andrew reflects on a journey dedicated to helping professional truck drivers. From hiring processes and decoding recruiter tactics to maximizing income and managing home time, this season covered a wide range of topics. Highlights included discussions on safety, broker interactions, lease programs, and student driver resources. Andrew also recaps interviews with law enforcement, anti-trafficking advocates, and technology vendors. ...
info_outlineWith over 1.8 million registered carriers in North America, how do you find the best trucking companies to work for? In this episode, Andrew explores two programs that identify the top fleets prioritizing drivers: Best Fleets to Drive For and Elite Fleets.
Learn about the importance of these programs in recognizing companies that offer fair pay, good benefits, and a positive work environment. Highlighting the role of these programs in driving innovation and improving the overall trucking industry.
Whether you're a seasoned driver or new to the field, this episode provides valuable insights to help you find the best carrier for your needs.
Takeaways
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There are over 1.8 million registered carriers in North America.
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Best Fleets to Drive For is a long-standing program recognizing driver-centric companies.
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Elite Fleets is a new program that also identifies top carriers.
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Driver feedback is crucial in the application process for these programs.
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These programs help drive innovation and change in the trucking industry.
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Companies involved in these programs are focused on improving driver experience.
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The application process for Best Fleets includes a lengthy questionnaire and driver surveys.
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Being part of these programs encourages companies to benchmark and improve their offerings.
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Drivers should seek companies that prioritize their well-being and respect.
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Advocating for better working conditions can lead to improved retention and satisfaction.
Follow these links to find the best trucking companies to work for:
Best Fleets to Drive For
Want to drive for a company recognized as a fleet that puts their drivers first, visit us at Chief Carriers.
This podcast is produced by Two Brothers Creative.