Considering a career as a truck driver with Boyd Transportation? It’s essential to get insights from those who’ve been on the road with them. This article delves into the realities of working for Boyd Transportation, drawing from driver experiences to provide a balanced overview of what you can expect regarding home time, the fleet, company culture, and more. If you’re evaluating Boyd Transportation as a potential employer, understanding these aspects is crucial for making an informed decision about your trucking career.
Home Time Expectations at Boyd Transportation
One of the first questions any driver has is about home time. At Boyd Transportation, home time can be a variable factor, especially for new drivers. Initial experiences suggest that the company tends to keep rookie drivers on the road for extended periods before offering more consistent home time. This is a common practice in the trucking industry, as companies prioritize moving freight and building driver experience.
However, individual experiences can differ. Some drivers report staying out on the road for two weeks at a stretch, and sometimes longer if personal appointments or commitments require them to extend their runs into weekends. Factors such as location, freight availability, and the driver’s assigned fleet manager (FM) can all influence home time. It’s advisable for prospective drivers to discuss home time expectations with recruiters and fleet managers during the hiring process to get a clearer picture based on their specific circumstances and location, such as North Florida mentioned in driver forums.
The Boyd Fleet: International Trucks and Cummins Engines
Boyd Transportation’s fleet reportedly includes newer International tractors equipped with Cummins 13-liter engines. While Cummins engines are generally regarded as reliable, it’s noted that these specific engines are governed, limiting top speeds to around 67 mph. This speed limitation is increasingly common in the trucking industry for fuel efficiency and safety reasons.
Driver feedback suggests mixed opinions on the International trucks themselves. While functional, some drivers feel they are somewhat basic, offering just the minimum required for the job. A recurring concern mentioned is the performance of the air conditioning units in the sleeper cabs, particularly in hotter climates, which can impact driver comfort and rest during mandatory downtime. Prospective drivers who value truck comfort should consider these points when evaluating Boyd’s fleet.
Company Culture and Management at Boyd Transportation
Company culture and management style significantly impact a driver’s experience. At Boyd Transportation, the role of the fleet manager (FM) appears to be pivotal. Positive experiences often hinge on having a good FM who prioritizes driver needs, provides good runs, and respects home time requests. Conversely, issues can arise when FMs are perceived as being more focused on bonuses or company targets than driver well-being.
A concern raised by drivers is potential cost-cutting measures affecting essential resources like tarps, straps, and the availability of maintenance technicians. Such measures, while aimed at improving the bottom line, can directly impact drivers’ ability to perform their jobs efficiently and safely. Driver turnover is also mentioned as a significant issue, which could be indicative of broader challenges within the company culture or operational practices. However, it’s important to note that high turnover is a common challenge across the trucking industry.
Despite these concerns, some drivers with longer tenure at Boyd Transportation report having had a positive overall experience, largely attributed to supportive fleet managers. This highlights the potential for a good working relationship with management to mitigate some of the broader company challenges.
Compensation and Benefits for Boyd Transportation Drivers
Compensation is, of course, a key consideration for any driver. Boyd Transportation is reported to offer a decent starting cents-per-mile (CPM) rate for rookie drivers, with figures around $0.40 CPM mentioned. This starting rate is competitive within the industry, especially for entry-level positions.
Beyond CPM, Boyd Transportation is said to provide excellent benefits, although these benefits are noted to be somewhat pricey. Comprehensive benefits packages are increasingly important to drivers, encompassing health insurance, retirement plans, and other perks. The fact that Boyd is acknowledged for good benefits, despite the cost, suggests a commitment to providing for driver well-being in these areas.
Furthermore, drivers report that Boyd Transportation is generally supportive when it comes to addressing vehicle issues. Whether it’s a necessary repair, a tire blowout, or concerns about driving in unsafe weather conditions, the company is perceived as being responsive and understanding. This responsiveness is crucial for driver safety and peace of mind on the road.
Conclusion
Working for Boyd Transportation, like any trucking company, presents a mix of positives and negatives. Home time can be variable, particularly for new drivers. The fleet, while newer Internationals with Cummins engines, might be considered basic by some, and AC issues have been reported. Company culture and driver experience seem heavily influenced by individual fleet managers, and there are concerns about cost-cutting and driver turnover.
On the positive side, Boyd Transportation offers a competitive starting CPM, excellent benefits, and a generally supportive stance when it comes to safety and vehicle maintenance. For prospective drivers considering Boyd Transportation, it’s recommended to weigh these factors carefully, inquire about current home time policies and fleet details, and seek to understand the management structure and support systems in place. Connecting with current or former Boyd drivers directly can also provide valuable, firsthand insights to help you determine if Boyd Transportation is the right fit for your trucking career aspirations.
