Starting and running a trucking company is no small feat, and we understand that a lot of factors go into maintaining a successful business. It can be difficult to run a business as an owner-operator, while making sure that you’re taking advantage of all opportunities possible. We put together some resources that could help provide support for your small business or trucking company.
1. Training School Scholarships for Driver
Hiring and employing trained drivers is extremely important in avoiding high turnover rates and insurance costs. Aside from finding loads and negotiating higher rates, our carriers struggle with finding drivers that are reliable and experienced. There are training schools and pell grants available for anyone that is considering a driving career in the trucking industry. The training programs can be anywhere from 9 to 24 weeks total so make sure to look at the requirements listed for each scholarship. Carriers can also contact their State Department of Education to see if they have additional grants or scholarships available. We also suggest FAFSA, as you may be eligible for financial assistance.
2. Trucking Organizations
In addition to financial aid for CDL training, there are organizations and associations available in most states that provide education, networking, and assistance. For example, the Georgia Motor Trucking Association and Women in Trucking Association promotes the interests of individuals in the trucking industry. As a member, you can take advantage of the benefits for training programs, business expos, and gain knowledge of industry news.
Last year, the Women in Trucking Foundation awarded thirteen recipients $1,000 to further their careers in the trucking industry. The awardees came from across the U.S and are enrolled in schools or training programs in categories of driving, leadership, safety or technical fields of study.
The Georgia Motor Trucking Association offers courses that cover basic principles such as Compliance, Safety, Hours of Service and Driver Logs. They also conduct training series for CSS & CDS Certification that involves DOT/OSHA recording, Employee injury prevention, driver retention, Implementing safety, and more.
3. Trucking TradeShows
The Mid-America Trucking Show (MATS) and The Great American Trucking Show (GATS) host yearly events with 500+ exhibitors and 50,000+ attendees. These events are great ways for trucking companies to network and connect. You get to meet face to face with hundreds of professionals that can provide essential recourses for successfully running your business. Make sure to come visit OTR Capital at the next event for MATS in March 26 – 28, 2020. GATS will be August 27-29,2020. Find out more at their websites and register online for next year’s expos.
Training programs, trucking associations, and trucking shows are just a few of the additional recourses available that can benefit your business. Take some time to research ways you can expand and grow your business! As always, OTR Capital is here for your factoring services and want nothing more for our clients to be successful!