When looking for a stable and rewarding career in the trucking industry, many drivers find themselves researching Crete Carrier Corporation. As one of the largest privately owned trucking companies in the United States, this organization has built a reputation for reliability, safety, and driver satisfaction. Whether you are an experienced driver looking for a new home or someone considering a career change into the world of logistics, understanding how this company operates is the first step toward a successful transition.
This guide provides a comprehensive overview of what to expect when interacting with the company. We will cover the different divisions available, the specific requirements for new hires, the benefits of their compensation packages, and the lifestyle you can expect while on the road. By the end of this article, you will have a clear picture of how to navigate your potential future in the transportation industry.
Understanding the Three Main Divisions
One of the unique aspects of this organization is its structure. It is not just a single entity but a family of companies that cater to different types of freight and driving preferences. Choosing the right division is essential for your long-term career satisfaction.
Crete Carrier: The Dry Van Specialists
The flagship division focuses primarily on dry van transportation. This is often the most common entry point for drivers. Dry van trucking involves hauling non-perishable goods in sealed trailers. It is a stable sector with consistent demand across the lower 48 states.
Shaffer Trucking: Refrigerated Freight
Shaffer Trucking is the refrigerated (reefer) division. This division specializes in transporting temperature-sensitive goods, such as food and medical supplies. Driving for Shaffer often requires a higher level of attention to detail regarding trailer temperature settings and strict delivery windows, but it often comes with different pay scales and consistent freight regardless of economic fluctuations.
Hunt Transportation: Flatbed and Specialized
Hunt Transportation handles the flatbed and oversized load requirements. This division is ideal for drivers who enjoy a physical challenge, as it involves securing loads with chains, straps, and tarps. Flatbed driving often requires specialized training, which the company provides to ensure all safety protocols are met when hauling heavy machinery or construction materials.
The Hiring and Application Process
Getting started requires a clear understanding of the qualifications and the steps involved in the application process. The company is known for its high standards, which helps maintain its safety record and the quality of its fleet.
Basic Driver Requirements
To be considered for a driving position, applicants generally need to meet several criteria. While specific requirements can change based on the division, the following are standard expectations:
- Valid Class A CDL: You must possess a current Commercial Driver’s License with the appropriate endorsements for the division you are applying to.
- Minimum Age: Most positions require drivers to be at least 22 years old.
- Experience: While they do have programs for relatively new drivers, most OTR (Over-the-Road) positions require at least four months of verifiable tractor-trailer experience.
- Clean Driving Record: A history of safe driving is paramount. This includes a limited number of moving violations and no recent serious accidents.
- Stable Work History: The company looks for drivers who show a commitment to their previous employers.
The Orientation Experience
Once your application is approved, you will be invited to attend an orientation program. This typically lasts between two to three days and takes place at one of their regional terminals. During orientation, you can expect the following:
- Road Test: A practical evaluation of your driving skills to ensure you can safely handle the equipment.
- Physical Exam: Ensuring you meet all DOT medical requirements for commercial driving.
- Drug Screening: A mandatory requirement for all safety-sensitive positions in the industry.
- Safety Training: Classroom sessions focused on company policies, logbook management (ELDs), and defensive driving techniques.
- Equipment Familiarization: Learning the specifics of the trucks and technology used in the fleet.
Compensation and Driver Benefits
One of the primary reasons drivers stay with this company for the long term is the competitive compensation package. They are often cited as offering some of the best pay scales in the industry, frequently referred to as the “Gold Standard” of driver pay.
Pay Structure
Drivers are typically paid based on a practical mileage scale rather than household goods (HHG) miles. This means the miles you are paid for are closer to the actual miles you drive, which can result in a significant increase in take-home pay over a year. Additionally, there are opportunities for productivity bonuses and detention pay if you are held up at a shipper or receiver for an extended period.
Health and Wellness
Comprehensive benefits are available to full-time drivers and their families. This usually includes medical, dental, and vision insurance. The company also emphasizes driver health by providing modern equipment with ergonomic seating and climate control systems designed for comfort during long hauls.
Retirement and Profit Sharing
Unlike many other trucking companies, this organization offers a robust profit-sharing program. This allows employees to share in the financial success of the company, contributing significantly to long-term retirement savings. Combined with a 401(k) plan, these benefits provide a level of financial security that is rare in the transportation sector.
Life on the Road: Equipment and Support
The quality of the equipment you drive and the support you receive from the home office can make or break your experience as a truck driver. The company invests heavily in both areas to ensure drivers have what they need to succeed.
Modern Fleet
The average age of the tractors in the fleet is remarkably low, usually around two years. You will likely be driving late-model International or Freightliner trucks equipped with the latest safety technology, such as collision mitigation systems and roll stability control. Most trucks also come with APUs (Auxiliary Power Units) and refrigerators to make life in the cab more comfortable.
Home Time and Flexibility
Understanding that drivers have lives outside of the truck, the company offers various fleet options to accommodate different home time needs. While OTR drivers may be out for 12 to 21 days at a time, there are regional and dedicated fleet options that allow for more frequent home time, sometimes even weekly or on weekends, depending on the specific route and location.
Rider and Pet Policies
To combat the loneliness of the road, the company has a generous rider policy, allowing drivers to bring a family member along. Furthermore, they are pet-friendly, recognizing that a four-legged companion can significantly improve a driver’s morale and mental health during long trips.
Opportunities for Military Veterans
The company has a long history of supporting military veterans transitioning into civilian careers. They offer specialized programs that recognize military experience, which can sometimes count toward the required driving experience for higher pay tiers. Their participation in apprenticeship programs allows veterans to use their GI Bill benefits while they train, providing an extra layer of financial support during the transition period.
Conclusion
Choosing a career with a reputable carrier is a significant decision that impacts your financial future and your daily lifestyle. This company offers a blend of stability, high-quality equipment, and a pay structure that rewards hard work and safety. By understanding the different divisions and the rigorous but fair hiring process, you can position yourself for a long and successful career on the road.
If you are ready to take the next step, we encourage you to gather your work history and driving records to begin the application process. For more information on navigating the trucking industry or improving your life as a professional driver, explore our other articles on career development and workplace safety.