FedEx is a household name, and is ranked #3 on our list of best companies to work for as a trucker. Everyone has seen their iconic purple and orange packages at their doorstep. With a reputation for quick and secure deliveries for small businesses and e-commerce, what initially started as an air-freight business in the early 1970’s exploded into a do everything conglomerate by the late 90’s.
Riding the wave of internet driven businesses and the old fashioned desire to get things, and get them fast, FedEx is an industry staple.
Corporate Focus
FedEx is committed to shipping in every way. No longer just focused on air shipments, they offer a mind-boggling variety of options for freight. They make sure you get your things quickly, and make sure the right person picks them up.
This reputation for efficiency and security is cultivated at every corporate level. This includes their freight drivers. They are held to a high standard of driving and are expected to keep impeccable schedules fitting of the FedEx name.
A focus on efficiency is in the company’s DNA. FedEx and its over 500,000 global employees are constantly looking for new ways to improve through innovative logistical solutions and technology.
They are committed to finding sustainable solutions, maximizing resources, and minimizing waste at every level. FedEx’s stature in the industry speaks for itself.
Driver Qualifications
Key driver qualifications below are what FedEx looks for in their City and Road truck drivers:
- Class A CDL with double/triple, hazardous materials and tank endorsements
- 1 year experience (within last 3 years), or completion of FedEx Freight Driver Development Course – from what we gathered, this is an internal driving program available to FedEx employees looking to become a truck driver
- Good driving record and meet DOT requirements
- Must have Long Combination Vehicles (LCV) qualifications (Triple Trailers, Rocky Mountain Doubles, and Turnpike Doubles) – operated in the states of AZ, CO, FL, ID, IN, KS, MT, ND, NV, OH, OK, OR, SD and UT
FedEx Truck Driver Salary & Compensation*
Truck Driver Pay
FedEx Freight truckers can expect wages consistent with a multinational giant.
With salaries ranging from $51,000 to $80,000, and median at about $67,000 per year, drivers for FedEx earn above average pay.
Bonus and stock options are also available.
Employee Benefits
- 401K (company matches up to 6% of what employee contributes)
- Pension plan
- Medical, dental and vision insurance
- Healthcare spending account (HSA)
- Education assistance
- Employee discounts
- Personal shipping rates through any of FedEx services
- Cell phone
- Big name stores
*Reference: Glassdoor
Pros
With e-commerce’s annual growth rates of around 10% every year for the last 15 years in the U.S., freight companies like FedEx continues to gain from this trend.
Career Growth
The average employee spends 20 hours in training, to enforce consistency and best practices.
From what we can see on job boards and their own career website, FedEx’s hiring is robust – from drivers to dock workers to warehouse positions. This and their global presence validates career growth.
Furthermore, working for FedEx gives you opportunities around the world. Once you are in the structure there are chances to move across the globe, and up the hierarchy.
Compensation
Company truck drivers’ benefits and pay are above average.
In some states, they require extremely experienced drivers to pull 3 trailers. These jobs can be very lucrative as the routes are quite short along toll roads.
Also unlike other freighters, FedEx is often open to contracting loads, especially during heavy season. This can mean big rates for independent owner operators.
Management & Employee Loyalty
From a management perspective, FedEx Freight’s CEO, Michael Ducker, has a 97% approval rating.
As well, based on about 485 reviews, the company has an employee net promoter score of 83% (recommends company to a friend). A high score suggests employee loyalty.
Here’s one of the comments from a current FedEx Freight City Driver in Austin, Texas:
For not having a degree it’s a good job with good pay, good equipment, one of the best LTL corporations to work for. Insurance/benefits are great.. For the most part management tends to weed out the mutants so you aren’t working with a bunch of creeps..
As far as driving goes it’s one of the best in my opinion. Home every night, paid weekly with overtime after 8 hours each day. Getting days off isn’t a big deal. Fedex has tuition assistance and reimburses you $2500 every school year, $5000 a year if you’re going for your master’s degree. Also you get a couple bonuses each year based on hours worked and terminal performance etc. Every month that goes by without an injury they have a bbq or some type of cookout to reward employees. I work in the central Texas region and management guys are all cool approachable guys. Really can’t complain about the job or work environment.
Cons
Just like with any other huge conglomerate, it’s easy to get lost in the shuffle. Remember you will be one of 500,000. That means some of your concerns and needs will not be met immediately.
Also, you will work hard. As a freight driver you will be expected to maintain your routes to nearly ridiculous precision. FedEx has its position for a reason. That means everything operates like clockwork. If you’re the gear that’s out place, you’ll be out of a job.
Consistent freight means you will be on the road a lot. Once you get to your destination, you’ll be sent to the most logical next location based on efficiency algorithms. This means your location will vary wildly and getting home will often be difficult.
Furthermore, while working as a contractor can mean excellent pay for work done, it doesn’t entitle you to full benefits of true employees. Remember they do not offer loyalty, only access to freight and good rates.
There is always a big hiring spree right before December as all carriers get bogged in the Christmas shipping slog. Followed by corresponding lay-offs after New Year’s.
Overall
FedEx has its standing in the shipping community due to years of commitment to safety and reliability. That’s not likely to change. They offer an opportunity to be part of a well-oiled machine.
If you’re an improviser or slacker it’s probably not for you.
If you drive hard and safe you can make some good money and your needs will be cared for. FedEx supports its employees with the best of the best.
Drivers that have ridden for them have generally positive reviews. This is one case where expectations do align with reality.
Driving with FedEx Freight can be an excellent move for young professionals looking for consistent work and the chance to save a few bucks. Veterans can make a few quick runs and stock their coffers.
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