Switch Jobs
Switching trucking companies isn’t something drivers should take lightly—but it’s also not something to fear. Whether you’re chasing better pay, benefits, home time, or just fed up with dispatch, timing your move can make or break your next opportunity.
Below are the best times to switch carriers to maximize your chances of getting a better gig—and avoid unnecessary setbacks.
⏳ 1. After You’ve Hit a Safety or Performance Bonus
If you’re working toward a quarterly or annual bonus, don’t walk away from it. Many carriers offer:
Safety bonuses
Mileage/performance incentives
Loyalty or tenure bonuses
Wait until you’ve cashed in, then move on. Walking out a week early can cost you $500–$2,000.
📅 2. Mid-January to March (Post-Holiday Surge)
This is one of the best windows to switch. Why?
Companies have updated budgets and new hiring needs
Less competition from holiday job-seekers
Dispatch and freight are more predictable than Q4 chaos
Pro Tip: Recruiters are more flexible on sign-on bonuses and home time deals early in the year when they’re trying to hit Q1 goals.
💸 3. Right Before Your Benefits Reset
If you’re on a company healthcare plan, check when your deductible or coverage resets. Jumping ship a week too early could mean:
Losing coverage before your new plan kicks in
Restarting a deductible and paying out of pocket
Delayed eligibility at the new carrier (some have 60- or 90-day waits)
Pro Tip: Ask your next carrier exactly when coverage starts and if they offer a benefits bridge.
📉 4. When Your Pay Has Plateaued
If you haven’t seen a CPM raise, percentage bump, or accessorial pay increase in the last 12 months—even though freight rates or your performance are solid—it’s a sign it may be time to move on.
Drivers with clean records and 12+ months of verifiable experience can almost always find a better offer, especially in niche sectors like:
Foodservice
Flatbed/heavy haul
Dedicated retail accounts
🛑 5. After You’ve Resolved a PSP or DAC Issue
If your DAC report or PSP record has a preventable accident, abandonment, or inspection violation:
File a DataQs dispute and wait for correction
Make sure your DAC shows accurate “eligible for rehire” notes
Switching before it’s fixed? You risk getting ghosted by new recruiters who see red flags. Clean your record first—then apply.
🛠️ 6. When Equipment or Maintenance Becomes a Safety Concern
If your truck is constantly:
Breaking down
Failing DOT inspections
Lacking legal equipment (brakes, tires, lighting)
… then you’re risking CSA points and your livelihood. Unsafe equipment isn’t just frustrating—it puts your license at risk. That’s reason enough to leave.
❌ Avoid Switching During These Times
Right before your 90-day mark at a new job (it looks bad to future employers)
Holiday shipping peak (November–December) unless it’s local or home-daily
While you’re under contract or tuition reimbursement unless you’re ready to pay it back
🚀 Plan Your Exit the Right Way
Give written notice
Get a signed copy of your resignation
Leave equipment where they request (document everything)
Request a clean separation letter if eligible
A good exit keeps your DAC clean, protects your record, and opens the door to better offers.
📌 Final Thought
The best time to switch carriers is when it benefits your future, not just your frustration. Please plan ahead, time it right, and move with purpose.
