Truck driving is an industry that has opened its doors to various individuals from diverse walks of life, including some people who have been hit a little bit in their career lines. A truck driver who once committed infractions in the FMCSA’s SAP (Substance Abuse Professional) program really needs a firm which allows giving second chances so as to rebuild the lost glory of their career. Houston is one of the major transportation terminals that has plenty of trucking companies that recognize the need to return drivers to work within safety standards.
In this article, we will discuss what it means for a company to be SAP-friendly, the criteria these companies look for when hiring drivers with a history of failed drug or alcohol tests, and a few well-known SAP-friendly trucking companies in Houston that you should consider if you are looking for a fresh start.
What Does It Mean to Be SAP-Friendly?
A trucking company that is SAP-friendly means that they are willing to consider hiring and employing drivers who have successfully completed the FMCSA-mandated SAP program after failing a drug or alcohol test. The SAP program assists in helping drivers get back on track through assessment, education, treatment, and follow-up testing.
They understand that drivers make mistakes and are willing to provide a second opportunity to eligible drivers. In this regard, it comes as a relief to find out that SAP-friendly is not a compromise on the safety measures. Such companies often have defined programs and guidelines to ensure that the driver they hire is fit for the road again.
Key Considerations for SAP-Friendly Companies
These are some of the factors to consider when looking for a trucking company with SAP graduates:
- SAP Program Finishers: Trucking firms would expect drivers to complete the SAP program, this would include the initial assessment and treatment or education and even a RTD test indicating that such a driver really is serious about getting another job and continuing to operate a vehicle in a safer manner.
- Zero-Tolerance Policies: While these companies tend to give people a second chance, most of these companies have a zero tolerance policy when it comes to future drug and alcohol use. There is no room for mistakes of this nature, and it takes a lot of resolve to maintain a clean life to continue working.
- Probation or Training Period: An SAP-friendly company can issue a probationary period or provide additional training to judge if a driver is devoted to their safety rules and code of conduct. In order to rebuild trust with everyone and make sure each trucking driver remains safe, they usually do so.
1. Houston Top SAP Friendly Trucking Companies
If you’re in Houston, here are a few SAP-friendly trucking companies known for hiring individuals who have passed the SAP program:
Stevens Transport is a family-owned business that boasts professionalism and integrity. The company has a history of working with drivers who have gone through the SAP process, making it a supportive environment for those willing to show commitment to safety and professionalism. Stevens Transport offers extensive training, and for those returning to work, they offer comprehensive refresher courses to fill in any gaps.
2. J.B. Hunt Transport Services
J.B. Hunt is one of the largest transportation and logistics companies in North America. They have clear intentions in offering second chances, as they do for SAP graduates who are eager to progress. Divided into intermodal, dedicated, and regional trucking, drivers are able to seek possibilities that fit their needs and experience.
3. Swift Transportation
As one of the largest trucking companies in the United States, Swift Transportation has diversity in the size of its fleet and broad ranges of job opportunities for both young and experienced candidates. Its reputation for helping give those with SAP violation records another chance is also an added asset. Swift structures probation, providing additional training, while having a mentor program for its returning drivers who should return to the highways as easy as possible.
Knight Transportation is one of the big trucking companies which has very good history with SAP graduates. Knight pays competitively, gives mentorship, and allows career advancement besides following the policies to get drivers back through the SAP program to pass their return-to-duty test, so it also turns out a safe place for work and supportive in every way.
Western Express is known for hiring drivers who have little or no experience and giving them a chance to grow in their careers. They also hire SAP graduates if all the requirements are fulfilled by the candidate. It provides specialized training and support after training, which is ideal for those who deserve a second chance.
How to Apply to Companies Friendly to SAP Graduates
That is, the following tips should be kept in mind while applying to SAP-friendly trucking companies in Houston:
- Explain your previous violation and show that you’re taking the responsibility by serving SAP by working on the SAP program; honesty is worth keeping among recruiters.
- Provide Documentation of Completion You must provide all the documents including proof of completion of SAP program and results of your RTD test. Your employer should be able to know that you comply with all federal requirements.
- Focus Experience and Commitment Drawn on your experience, the good driving record outside the event, and commitment to professional safe driving. Take time to include letters of recommendations or previous employer’s endorsements if available.
- Expect that companies will scrutinize your preparedness through an additional training session. Then take this as a chance for proving your skills and determination to keep the roads on a safe side.
An SAP graduate gets a second chance with a trucking company that knows the value of redemption: find a new trucking company that knows how much redemption is worth to them in the Houston area. And indeed, there are many different trucking companies that may have SAP-friendly policies when it comes to helping drivers restart their careers. You have options from the big-name carriers like J.B. Hunt and Swift Transportation and more specialized outfits like Western Express.
If you’ve had a setback, go out there and look for companies that have the same goals you do and be ready to display your dedication to safe driving practices. With the right mindset and preparation, you’ll find a company willing to help you that takes that important second step toward a bright future in trucking.