What Is Abandonment in Trucking?

In the trucking industry, abandonment occurs when a driver leaves their assigned truck or cargo without proper authorization or notification to their employer. This action is considered a serious offense because it disrupts supply chains, potentially damages freight, and costs companies significant money in recovery operations and delayed deliveries.

Abandonment can happen for various reasons, including personal emergencies, disputes with employers, or frustration with working conditions. Regardless of the cause, it typically results in a negative mark on a driver's employment history that can make finding new opportunities difficult. Most trucking companies perform background checks that reveal past abandonments, and many standard carriers have policies against hiring drivers with this history.

How Abandonment Affects Your Trucking Career

When a driver has abandonment on their record, it can significantly impact their career trajectory in the trucking industry. Many carriers view abandonment as an indication of unreliability and potential risk. This perception can lead to automatic disqualification during the hiring process at numerous companies.

The consequences of abandonment typically include being placed on a Do Not Rehire list with the previous employer, negative references when potential employers call for verification, and possibly even being reported to industry databases that track driver history. Some drivers find that abandonment can affect their employment prospects for several years, depending on the circumstances and how they address the issue during interviews.

However, it's important to note that not all hope is lost. The trucking industry faces persistent driver shortages, and many companies have developed more nuanced hiring policies that consider the full context of a driver's history rather than automatically rejecting candidates with past mistakes.

Trucking Companies With Second Chance Programs

Several national and regional carriers have established second chance programs specifically designed for drivers with issues on their record, including abandonment. These companies recognize that good drivers sometimes make mistakes and deserve an opportunity to prove themselves.

Western Express is known for giving drivers with less-than-perfect histories a fresh start. Their hiring process includes a case-by-case evaluation of past incidents, and they offer training programs to help drivers rebuild their careers. The company operates throughout the continental United States, providing both dry van and flatbed opportunities for drivers seeking a new beginning.

CRST International also maintains hiring policies that can accommodate drivers with abandonment issues under certain circumstances. They offer a structured mentoring program where experienced drivers can help guide those returning to the industry after difficulties. Their team approach helps drivers transition back into successful trucking careers while providing additional support.

Swift Transportation, one of America's largest carriers, has developed programs for drivers looking to overcome past employment issues. Their size allows them to take more calculated risks on drivers who demonstrate a genuine commitment to professional improvement. Swift offers various freight types and routes, making it easier for drivers to find positions that match their preferences and needs.

Requirements and Considerations for Hiring

While some companies are willing to hire drivers with abandonment on their records, they typically have specific requirements that must be met. Understanding these conditions can help drivers better prepare for the application process and increase their chances of success.

Most second-chance trucking companies require a minimum waiting period after an abandonment incident, typically ranging from 6 months to 2 years. This cooling-off period allows companies to assess whether the behavior was an isolated incident rather than a pattern. Additionally, companies often require detailed explanations of what happened, why it happened, and what the driver has learned from the experience.

Stevens Transport reviews applications from drivers with abandonment on a case-by-case basis, considering factors such as the time elapsed since the incident and any steps taken to address the underlying issues. They often require additional references and may implement a probationary period with more frequent performance reviews for newly hired drivers with past abandonment issues.

PAM Transport offers opportunities for drivers with abandonment records who can demonstrate stability since the incident. Their evaluation process considers the circumstances surrounding the abandonment and any mitigating factors. They may require additional training or mentoring as part of their hiring conditions.

Strategies for Getting Hired Despite Abandonment

Drivers with abandonment on their records can take several proactive steps to improve their employability and demonstrate their commitment to professional reliability. These strategies can help overcome the stigma associated with abandonment and showcase a driver's current value to potential employers.

Being completely honest about past mistakes is crucial when applying to companies like Prime Inc., which considers drivers with abandonment under their conditional hiring program. Transparency about what happened, taking responsibility, and explaining the steps taken to ensure it won't happen again can significantly impact hiring decisions. Providing context without making excuses shows maturity and self-awareness.

Obtaining additional certifications or specialized training can also help offset concerns about past abandonment. Drivers who invest in hazmat endorsements, tanker certifications, or other specialized skills demonstrate commitment to the profession. Companies like Roehl Transport value additional qualifications when evaluating candidates with complex histories.

Working with smaller carriers or owner-operators can sometimes provide an entry point back into the industry. Companies like USA Truck partner with independent contractors who may have more flexible hiring criteria. Starting with shorter contracts or regional positions can help rebuild a positive work history before applying to larger carriers.

Conclusion

While abandonment can present significant challenges for trucking careers, it doesn't have to be a permanent barrier to employment in the industry. The trucking companies mentioned in this article recognize that drivers deserve second chances and evaluate candidates based on their complete history rather than a single incident. By understanding what companies look for, being honest about past mistakes, and demonstrating a commitment to professionalism, drivers with abandonment records can find new opportunities and rebuild successful careers in trucking.

Remember that persistence is key when applying to these companies. The application process may take longer and require additional documentation, but with determination and the right approach, many drivers have successfully overcome abandonment issues and gone on to build rewarding careers with reputable carriers. The trucking industry continues to need qualified, dedicated drivers, and many companies are willing to look beyond past mistakes to find the right talent.

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This content was written by AI and reviewed by a human for quality and compliance.