Changing carriers can be a smart move for your trucking career—whether you’re chasing better pay, more home time, or a stronger company culture. But many CDL drivers make costly mistakes in the transition. At Drivers 1st, we’ve helped thousands of drivers make smarter career moves that truly align with their goals. Here’s what to watch out for.
Why Drivers Change Carriers
Before diving into the pitfalls, let’s touch on the common reasons drivers seek a switch:
- Better pay or benefits
- More predictable home time
- New equipment or safer working conditions
- A change in lifestyle (e.g., regional vs. OTR routes)
But without a strategic approach, changing carriers can backfire.
1. Not Reviewing the Fine Print
Many drivers jump ship without carefully reviewing the contract terms or job details from the new carrier. This often leads to surprises like:
- Hidden deductions (e.g., truck maintenance, fuel, insurance)
- Unpaid downtime or layovers
- Mileage discrepancies
Tip: Get all of your questions answered before committing to anything, and ask direct questions about pay structure, benefits, and home time expectations. Request an offer letter that outlines the position details.
2. Overlooking Lifestyle Fit
Not all jobs match your personal needs. For example, an OTR position may sound great until you’re three weeks into life away from home and realizing it’s not for you.
Drivers 1st solves this with our matching you with carriers based on your preferences.
Ask Yourself:
- Do I want to be home weekly or every 2-3 weeks?
- Am I comfortable with long hauls or prefer short regional routes?
3. Burning Bridges with the Previous Employer
Professionalism matters. Leaving on bad terms can impact your DAC report and future opportunities.
Best Practices:
- Give proper notice (typically 2 weeks)
- Return equipment in good condition
- Keep communications respectful
You never know when a past dispatcher or recruiter might become a reference or future VOE.
4. Chasing Sign-On Bonuses Without Asking the Right Questions
Yes, that $10,000 bonus looks appealing—but at what cost? Many sign-on bonuses come with strings attached:
- Long contract commitments
- Monthly payout structures
- Performance quotas
Always ask:
- When and how is the bonus paid?
- What are the conditions for receiving it?
- Is there a clawback clause if you leave early?
5. Skipping a Background Check on the New Carrier
Just like they’ll run a background check on you, you should vet the carrier’s reputation too. Use sites like the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to check their safety scores, reviews, and inspection history.
Red flags include:
- High driver turnover
- Frequent FMCSA violations
- Poor communication during recruitment
6. Not Speaking to a Driver Advocate
Many drivers make decisions alone, without the benefit of expert support. At Drivers 1st, our Driver Advocates help you:
- Compare opportunities transparently
- Understand your options based on lifestyle goals
- Avoid carriers that don’t align with your needs
👉 Talk to a Driver Advocate before making your next move.
Conclusion: Don’t Just Change Jobs—Change Smarter
Changing carriers is a major career decision. Avoiding these common mistakes helps ensure you’re not just taking another job, but stepping into a role that supports your life on and off the road.
✅ Double-check the details
✅ Align with your lifestyle
✅ Stay professional
✅ Ask smart questions
✅ Lean on expert support
Ready to find your perfect fit? Search CDL Jobs Now
FAQ
Q: Should I always give notice before leaving a carrier?
Yes. Giving at least two weeks’ notice helps maintain your professional reputation.
Q: What if the new carrier doesn’t deliver on their promises?
Document everything and reach out to your recruiter or a driver advocate for support.
Q: How do I know if a carrier is a good fit for me?
Use tools like our driver job search tools and filters or speak with a Drivers 1st Driver Advocate to match your preferences.
For more updates and insights into the trucking world, stay tuned to Drivers1st.com!