Recent discussions within the trucking community have brought to light significant concerns regarding employment practices at Unimark Truck Transport, a company operating under the umbrella of JBT Holdings. This article aims to address these issues, providing a balanced overview for prospective drivers and industry observers.
Reports indicate a high turnover rate among Unimark drivers, suggesting potential dissatisfaction with working conditions. A key point of contention is the financial structure for drivers. Single drivers reportedly receive $0.50 per mile with an initial fuel provision, after which they become responsible for fuel costs. For drivers operating decked sets, the rate is purportedly $1.50 per mile with a similar initial fuel arrangement. However, numerous drivers have reported unexpected deductions from their earnings at the trip’s conclusion, leading to financial strain and prompting many to resign shortly after starting.
Adding to the financial considerations are mandatory union dues. Employees are required to pay $52 monthly in union dues to access Auto Truck Transport (ATT) properties, a condition described as a “courtesy fee” without corresponding benefits being clearly communicated. This mandatory fee further reduces the take-home pay for drivers and contributes to concerns about the overall compensation structure.
JBT Holdings, the parent company of Unimark, also operates Iron Tiger Group (ITG), and both companies are reportedly facing staffing challenges despite current economic conditions. It’s suggested that JBT Holdings is leveraging the economic downturn to fill positions within Unimark and ITG. Concerns have been raised about recruitment tactics, with some individuals posing as successful drivers to attract new recruits, potentially misrepresenting the reality of working conditions.
The current situation is viewed by some as a continuation of a trend within JBT Holdings, attributed to Dennis Troha’s acquisition of IBT-represented companies and the subsequent growth of IAM-represented Auto Truck Transport Corp (ATT). This historical context suggests a pattern of potentially diminishing pay, benefits, and work rules within the JBT Holdings network. Active Transportation Company (ATC), the remaining IBT-represented new truck hauler under JBT Holdings, currently focuses on the PACCAR account.
JBT Holdings’ significant presence in new truck hauling, through companies like ATT, ITG, Unimark, and ATC, underscores the importance of understanding the employment conditions at each entity. Currently, Unimark and ITG are actively hiring, indicative of ongoing “retention problems.” ITG, initially intended as a non-union operation, eventually involved the IAM union to establish a “minimal contract,” aiming to address staffing needs and reduce reliance on potentially less reliable private contractors. However, reports suggest ITG still significantly utilizes contractors, some with questionable reputations.
In conclusion, potential drivers considering Unimark Truck Transport should be aware of reported concerns regarding pay structures, mandatory union dues with unclear benefits, and recruitment practices. Understanding the broader context of JBT Holdings’ operations and industry trends is crucial for making informed career decisions within the truck transport sector.
