Trying to decide

[guest]

Well I found my truck...... 2000 F80, 195,000 miles, 24' box and I am ready to go. I have contacted several expediting companies and am debating between two. Can anyone give me information or opinions on Express 1 and Panther?

I have heard things about Panther but haven't heard much said in here about Express 1. I meeting with Express 1 on Tuesday and just wanted to get some other drivers opinion of them.

 

[davekc]

Panther is much larger than Express 1. They have more trucks but also have more freight. Especially in the southern states. We have had very good success with them. Can't tell you much about Express 1. Unless something has changed, Panther pays much better than Express 1.
Hope that gives you some idea
Davekc

 

[teacel]

I on the other hand like Express1 over Panther. I have never driven for either of the two mentioned but formed this opinion through talk from other drivers. Dave is a panther driver and is giving it to ya straight as a driver from Panther.

I think I like the idea of Express 1 being a smaller company (but not by much) I also like the appreciation they show to their drivers.

Keep in mind you are the one who will be working for this company and you are the one needing to be happy or comfortable with them. Keep an open mind when going to your meeting and maybe have a list of questions to ask them. I feel the best approach is to be straightforward and direct. Find ways to ask the same question in several different ways to see if the interviewer is being honest or telling you things he or she thinks you want to hear. Good Luck

 

[davekc]

Yes my only observation is driving for Panther and as well talking to former folks at Express 1 that came to Panther. Panther like Fedex is alittle more structured than a smaller company. That being said, the larger carrier has the ability to keep you moving more consistantly because of a larger freight base. In general the smaller companies have paid less or have less contractor benefits, and a smaller customer base.
On the upside, the smaller carriers tend to operate in a smaller geographical pattern thus providing a better chance of getting home.
Keep in mind for that to happen you must live in or close to their operating area.
Since I live in FL. Panther or FedEx would be the only carriers I would consider. They are the only ones that can get you out of Fl.
Maybe to a lesser degree would be Landstar or Tristate
Just my thoughts
Davekc

 

[guest]

I am really swaying toward Express 1. I live in Michigan and am only 3 hours north of the headquarters. They have called me 3 times this week and we finally agreed on meeting on Tuesday. They have told me that they are so busy they can KEEP me rolling, and thats what I want now. Express 1 said they have plenty of loads into Traverse City and Cadillac both of which are less than an hour from home. It sounds better and better all the time.

 

[davekc]

Let us know how it goes
Davekc

 

[gandrew]

We have looked at many and are planning to go with Con-Way Now located in Ann Arbor, about an hour from our home. Modern, technically up to date, they seem to pay as good or better than most. We visited them last week and were warmly received and given good info, not bs.