Southeastern Freight Lines, rated #6 on our top trucking companies to work for, delivered its first parcel over 60 years ago. They specialize in Less-Than-Truckload, individualized solutions.
With Southeastern, customers expect quality above all else. A wide variety of shipping options and commitment to value have Southeastern near the top of regional carriers. Through cooperation with other conglomerates, they have the reach and reputation of the big boys.
Corporate Focus
Southeastern Freight Lines are committed to one thing, and one thing only, improvement. They believe on the micro level that every process must be constantly examined for flaws that could save both the customer and the company time. As we all know, time is money, and in an extremely competitive industry, offering the lowest possible rate is paramount. Each one of Southeastern’s 6000+ employees are up to the challenge, constantly introducing new policies and technology that revolutionize the industry. Each one of Southeastern’s trucks is internet connected, offering the gold standard of transparency and up to date information. Their regional focus allows them to offer the true expertise of local drivers. In an increasingly global economy, it’s nice to see a regional focus providing consistent results. In the Southeastern United States, finding better more qualified shipping professionals in nearly impossible. With 390 quality awards and counting, Southeastern’s mission is recognized as one the best in the business. Sometimes doing things the right way means sacrificing size for quality.
Southeastern Truck Driver Salary
Southeastern’s truckers make $68,000 per year, according to Glassdoor, however, on Indeed.com, the reported average is lower at $62,000.
Unlike giant multinational corporations, they are committed to keeping their drivers local. Drivers praise the pay as excellent for the region – the Southeast part of the U.S. is one of the cheapest parts of the country to reside.
Drivers are also offered a great benefits package that ensures happiness at all levels. Driving for Southeastern means living economically secure.
Pros
The regional focus is a huge bonus. This means less long runs to get home to your own bed. Maximizing loaded hours and time with your family cannot be understated. You will be on the road a lot, but only when it matters. This keeps costs down and drivers enthusiastic. Furthermore, a local mentality develops deep trust and consistent routes. People trust Southeastern because they know the drivers, they know the dispatchers, and they know the mechanics. There is no substitute for real, authentic care for your customers. Drivers praise the positive work environment and family-like atmosphere. This cordial nature should not be underrated as many more bureaucratic firms can feel impersonal.
Cons
Southeastern Freight Lines is just what it sounds, focused on the Southeast United States. That means your routes will be limited from Virginia to Texas. For someone with a family living in the center of the southeast, this is an ideal setup. However, if you are a young driver looking to put in those huge hours and boost that bank account, a nationwide carrier could be better for growth and opportunity. Also, if you don’t live in this area it just doesn’t make sense to work for a company called Southeastern. Owner operators could love an arrangement with southeastern, but could also cut down chances to make those hugely lucrative cross country hauls. Shorter routes and more trips means more loads, unloads, and trips down from your perch. That means a bit more physical activity than some drivers are used to.
Overall
Southeastern Freight Lines’ reputation as an innovative and regionally oriented workplace gives them an advantage in the area. For older drivers with families, this is likely a fantastic option. Shorter, more frequent hauls means more stops in at the homestead. Competitive pay and good benefits for the region can be perfect for those truckers looking to “settle down” (as much as that’s possible in such a nomadic profession). Younger more ambitious drivers and truly mercenarial owner operators could consider latching on to a larger national or multinational conglomerate to maximize earning potential. Bottom line, if you are established in the southeast and are tired of bouncing around, Southeastern can be an excellent option for your career. Young drivers unsure of what they want can do worse than consistent work and excellent mentors to learn from. Southeastern Freight Lines may be limited in its scope, but not in its dedication to a premium service.
TruckersTraining.com provide information, tools and resources to potential truck drivers in the U.S. We hope that you can use the content on the site to help you decide if want to drive trucks for a living.
