For most truck drivers, a Substance Abuse Professional (SAP) program is a turning point. The SAP program will help drivers recover from their past substance abuse issues and regain qualifications under FMCSA rules. However, when all is said and done after a SAP program, job hunting is work. For many trucking companies, that record of substance violations raises a red flag, and those individuals don’t know where to go from there.
If you’re in Florida and attended a SAP program, don’t lose hope. Many trucking companies in Florida are SAP-friendly and will give you a second chance. These firms realize that it is in their best interest to sponsor drivers who are committed to cleaner behavior, thus helping the driver to rebuild themselves professionally and personally. Here’s what it means to be SAP-friendly, as well as some of the top employers in Florida offering these opportunities.
What Is a SAP-Friendly Trucking Company?
A SAP-friendly trucking company is a trucking company willing to hire SAP program-graduated drivers and ready to return fully compliant FMCSA regulation. Unlike trucking companies that fire a driver because of having a previous substance violation in his/her past, trucking companies friendly to the SAP program accept it as a real and recognized route of recovery and compliance. These friendly trucking companies offer an opportunity to second chances of returning back to work in order to return back into their profession.
Trucking companies who are SAP friendly follow FMCSA procedures in any substance violation for the driver to ensure that this driver has been seen by a certified Substance Abuse Professional and;
- Evaluation.
- Treatment and Education
- Return-to-Duty Testing.
- Follow-Up Testing:
The driver is willing to comply with continuous follow-up tests, as SAP describes.
These companies do not offer jobs-they offer a new chance for professional and committed drivers.
Why SAP-Friendly Companies Matter
Drivers who have successfully completed SAP usually are compliant and highly motivated to perform at their peak. It takes much dedication not only in the recovery part but also in ensuring clean records to complete SAP. While hiring, a SAP-friendly company benefits with a workforce that appreciates professionalism and gets an opportunity to prove themselves beyond previous mistakes. Such companies believe in rehabilitation and the potential for growth from previous errors.
Such companies help alleviate the problem of driver shortages in trucking; other than that, an inequitable workplace that does not comply with SAP means inequality.
Top SAP-Compliant Trucking Companies in Florida
Searching for a trucking company service that is SAP-friendly, new start in Florida? Below are some of the highest rated known for SAP compliant hiring:
Knight Transportation
Knight Transportation is one of the largest carriers in the country and very well established in Florida. The company offers several driving positions from local to long haul, and it is receptive to hiring a driver that has completed SAP successfully. Knight is well known for its training programs, making it an ideal choice for those who are looking for a fresh start and require a lot of support.
Western Express is one of the biggest trucking companies that have always given a chance to drivers who comply with SAP. They believe in hiring a driver who is ready to prove themselves on road after committing themselves to sobriety. Dedicated regional and OTR routes open opportunities at Florida on Western Express.
Carolina Cargo
Carolina Cargo has earned much fame for second chances it has provided drivers and is known to be open and easy to comply with requirements and SAP drivers. Since this company rewards hard workers who do not give up and are always willing to step up to grow as employees, the place works just fine for those willing to transform their lives and to try harder for career building.
TransAm Trucking
TransAm Trucking is also among the companies that are friendly with SAP. It has competitive pay and benefits that support the drivers who have been through the SAP program, as well as training for those who have successfully passed it. The regional and OTR routes are in Florida with TransAm Trucking for drivers looking to change their jobs after being required to complete the SAP.
Marten Transport
Marten Transport is one of the more lenient companies on hiring policies for SAP compliant drivers. They have a variety of regional and over-the-road routes, with a very friendly staff who can help a driver back into the workforce without hassle. Florida has a significant fleet with Marten, so there are ample opportunities for someone looking to get back into their career.
If you are actively searching in Florida for a trucking company that is friendly and supportive with SAP, think of these tips as putting you on the path of finding the right job.
- Be Frank About Your Past: This time when you are ready to apply, inform the company that you completed the SAP, and now wish to work hard for success in life. Honesty can be a huge trigger for the company to actually trust you and express an interest in turning a leaf.
- Mention the SAP Graduation: Graduation from the SAP program is indeed a big achievement; there is nothing to hide about it. It reflects your preparedness to be a responsible driver and in regulations.
- Maximize Your Experience: Industry experience can be an added advantage. Normally, it would be easier for firms to hire experienced drivers, who also provide evidence of their intent to get rehabilitation.
- Connect with Other Drivers: Trucking is a society, but there is more to it than just connecting with other truckers. Connecting with the other truckers helps one get information about companies which may hire SAP compliant truckers.
- Use the services of a recruiter: Many recruiters are usually connected with companies that embrace SAP. Using the services of a recruiter may streamline your job search and may increase your chances of landing the right employer in Florida.
Getting SAP is a great step forward in rebuilding your trucking career, but finding that right job is the biggest milestone. There are trucking companies in Florida which are SAP-friendly and offer a second chance to give drivers. Such companies like Knight Transportation, Western Express, and other companies provide a chance to committed individuals to restart a new journey in the trucking industry.
Remember to be open about your SAP history and assure the employer of your commitment to staying compliant. Dedication, honesty, and the right company will help you get back on the road and build a successful trucking career in the Sunshine State.