Are you looking for a job that pays well and provides ample opportunity for career growth? Have you heard about CRST and wondering if it’s a good choice for your next employment venture? Well, wonder no more, because I have got you covered! In this article, we will examine the ins and outs of CRST and determine whether it’s a good company to work for or not.
CRST is one of the leading transportation companies in the United States, providing exceptional services to customers across the country. However, as a potential employee, you might be more interested to know if CRST will offer you a bright future. Well, fear not, because CRST prides itself on having a strong safety culture, competitive pay, and outstanding benefits. So, if you are someone who values job security, a friendly work environment, and the chance to grow and advance, then CRST might just be the perfect fit for you!
But before we dive deeper into what makes CRST a desirable place to work, let me tell you a secret. Not all companies are perfect; every organization has its strengths and weaknesses. So, in this article, we won’t just be blindly singing the praises of CRST. Instead, we will provide an honest assessment of this transportation giant weighing both the pros and cons. So, keep on reading, and let’s find out if CRST is, indeed, a good company to work for.
CRST: An Overview
CRST is a transportation and logistics company that specializes in trucking services. With over 60 years of experience, this company has grown to become one of the largest privately held transportation companies in the United States. CRST owns a fleet of more than 2,500 trucks and 6,500 trailers, which are operated by its network of over 4,500 drivers. The company has a wide range of services that include expedited, dedicated, team, and specialized services.
- Expedited services are designed for time-sensitive shipments that require fast delivery. This service is ideal for businesses that need to transport goods quickly.
- Dedicated services are tailored to meet the specific needs of a particular business. This service provides a dedicated team of drivers and a fleet of trucks dedicated to one customer.
- Team services involve two drivers sharing a truck to maximize the number of miles covered. This service is ideal for long-haul trips.
In addition to its transportation services, CRST also offers logistics solutions that include supply chain management, warehousing, and distribution services. This allows businesses to streamline their operations and reduce costs by outsourcing their logistics needs to a single company.
Company History and Legacy
CRST International is a privately owned transportation company founded in 1955 by Herald and Miriam Smith. As a small start-up company, the couple purchased their first truck with a loan from the bank and began hauling furniture and goods around the Cedar Rapids, Iowa area. Over the years, CRST has grown to become one of the largest privately held transportation companies in the United States, operating a fleet of more than 4,500 trucks and employing over 8,000 people nationwide.
The legacy of Herald and Miriam Smith lives on, as the company remains family-owned and led by their son and daughter. CRST has a strong reputation in the transportation industry for providing safe, reliable, and efficient services to its customers.
Company Values and Culture
- Integrity
- Safety
- Excellence
- Accountability
- Respect
CRST prides itself on its commitment to these values and instills them throughout the company culture. From training programs to daily operations, these principles are woven into the fabric of the company and guide the actions of its employees.
Industry Recognition
CRST has received numerous awards and recognition for its outstanding service and commitment to the transportation industry. Some of the notable awards include:
| Award | Organization | Year |
|---|---|---|
| Top 100 3PL Providers | Inbound Logistics | 2020 |
| Safety Award | Minnesota Trucking Association | 2021 |
| Top Company for Women to Work For | Women In Trucking | 2021 |
These awards demonstrate CRST’s commitment to excellence and its dedication to its customers, employees, and the transportation industry as a whole.
CRST’s Service Offerings
CRST is a transportation company that offers a wide range of services for their clients. From expedited shipping to long-haul trucking, CRST has a service that meets every need. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at CRST’s service offerings and how they benefit clients.
3. Services Offered by CRST
- Expedited Shipping: CRST offers expedited shipping services that ensure your freight reaches its destination in the shortest possible time. Their expedited trucking service can handle any type of freight, regardless of size or weight.
- Dedicated Trucking: CRST provides dedicated trucking services to clients who require regular transportation of their goods. With dedicated trucking, clients can have a dedicated fleet of trucks and drivers at their service, ensuring their freight is transported safely and efficiently.
- Long-Haul Trucking: For clients who need to transport goods over long distances, CRST offers long-haul trucking services. These services are tailored to meet the specific needs of each client and include the use of state-of-the-art equipment and experienced drivers.
CRST also offers specialized transportation services, including temperature-controlled shipping, hazardous material transport, and flatbed trucking. Their specialized services are designed to meet the unique needs of clients in specific industries.
To give you an idea of the scale of CRST’s operations, here is a breakdown of their service offerings.
| Service Offering | Description | Additional Information |
|---|---|---|
| Expedited Shipping | Fast delivery of products | 24/7 availability |
| Dedicated Trucking | Exclusive fleet of trucks and drivers | Customized transportation solutions |
| Long-Haul Trucking | Transportation of goods over long distances | Nationwide coverage |
| Specialized Transportation | Temperature-controlled shipping, hazardous material transport, and flatbed trucking | Specialized solutions for unique needs |
With such a wide range of services, it’s no wonder that CRST is a top choice for clients who need reliable and efficient transportation solutions. Their commitment to customer satisfaction and safety has earned them a reputation as one of the best transportation companies in the industry.
Workforce Diversity and Inclusion
At CRST, diversity and inclusion are valued as important components of their company culture. The company recognizes that a diverse workforce brings different perspectives and experiences to the table, which ultimately benefits their customers and their bottom line.
CRST is committed to promoting diversity and inclusion through a variety of initiatives that support their employees and their communities. For example, the company has implemented programs to create a more inclusive workplace culture and to hire and retain diverse talent.
Benefits of Workforce Diversity
- Increases innovation and creativity
- Improves employee morale and job satisfaction
- Attracts a wider range of customers and clients
CRST’s Diversity and Inclusion Programs
CRST offers several programs that support workforce diversity and inclusion. The company’s Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) provide a platform for employees to come together and celebrate their unique backgrounds and experiences. These groups also serve as a resource for networking, professional development, and community outreach.
In addition, CRST has created a Diversity and Inclusion Council made up of leaders from across the organization. This council works together to create and implement strategies to promote diversity and inclusion throughout the company.
CRST’s Diversity Statistics
CRST recognizes that transparency is an important component of promoting diversity and inclusion. The company regularly shares their diversity statistics with employees and the public. As of 2021, CRST’s workforce is:
| Category | Percentage |
|---|---|
| Female | 14% |
| Minority | 39% |
| Veteran | 9% |
While CRST’s diversity statistics show room for improvement, the company is committed to creating a more diverse and inclusive workforce through ongoing initiatives and programs.
Employee Benefits and Perks
One of the major factors that job seekers look for when considering a company to work for is the benefits and perks that the company offers. CRST International understands this and has made it a priority to offer a comprehensive benefits package to their employees.
CRST offers several benefits, including health, dental, and vision insurance options. They also offer a 401(k) plan with a company match, flexible spending accounts, short-term and long-term disability insurance, and life insurance. Additionally, CRST offers paid time off (PTO), paid holidays, and bereavement leave.
- Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance – CRST offers plans with multiple coverage levels to choose from, giving employees the flexibility to select coverage that meets their individual needs.
- 401(k) Plan – CRST offers a 401(k) plan with a company match to help employees save for retirement.
- Paid Time Off – CRST provides PTO to give employees time away from work to recharge, spend time with family and friends, or take care of personal matters.
CRST also provides several additional perks to their employees. For example, they offer on-site amenities such as a fitness center, walking trails, and a cafeteria. CRST employees also have access to discounts on cellular phone plans and a variety of other goods and services. Additionally, they offer a wellness program, which includes wellness screenings, educational resources, and incentive programs to encourage healthy behaviors.
Overall, CRST International offers an excellent benefits package that includes a wide range of benefits and perks to help employees take care of their health and well-being while also enjoying their work and personal lives.
Safety and Compliance Standards
When considering whether CRST is a good company to work for, one of the most important factors to consider is their track record when it comes to safety and compliance standards. After all, truck driving can be an inherently dangerous job, and it’s important to make sure that any company you work for takes its responsibility to ensure your safety seriously. Fortunately, CRST has a number of policies and practices in place to ensure safety and compliance across the board.
- Pre-Trip Inspections: Before any driver sets off on the road, it’s essential to make sure that the vehicle they’re driving is in good condition. CRST requires all drivers to perform a thorough pre-trip inspection of their vehicle, which includes checking the brakes, tires, lights, and other key components to ensure safe operation.
- Compliance with Hours of Service Regulations: One of the biggest risks associated with truck driving is driver fatigue, which can lead to accidents on the road. To help mitigate this risk, CRST has strict policies in place to ensure compliance with hours of service regulations, which limit the number of consecutive hours a driver can be behind the wheel.
- Proactive Maintenance: In addition to pre-trip inspections, CRST also has a robust maintenance program in place to keep vehicles in good working order. This includes regularly scheduled maintenance and repairs, as well as a 24-hour emergency on-call service to address any issues that may arise while on the road.
In addition to these policies and practices, CRST also invests in training and education to ensure that all of its drivers understand the importance of safety and compliance. This includes regular training sessions on topics like defensive driving, accident prevention, and risk mitigation strategies.
Finally, it’s worth noting that CRST has a strong reputation among industry regulators and organizations for its commitment to safety and compliance. For example, the company has been recognized by both the American Transportation Research Institute (ATRI) and the National Safety Council (NSC) for its safety record and proactive safety policies.
| Policy/Practice | Description |
|---|---|
| Pre-Trip Inspections | All drivers are required to perform a thorough pre-trip inspection of their vehicle to ensure safe operation. |
| Hours of Service Regulations | CRST has strict policies in place to ensure compliance with hours of service regulations, which limit the number of consecutive hours a driver can be behind the wheel. |
| Proactive Maintenance | CRST has a robust maintenance program in place to keep vehicles in good working order, including regular scheduled maintenance and repairs. |
Overall, it’s clear that CRST takes safety and compliance seriously, with a range of policies, practices, and training programs designed to keep drivers safe on the road. For anyone considering a career in truck driving, this is a key advantage of working with CRST.
Opportunities for Career Growth and Development
At CRST, one of the leading transportation companies in the United States, employees can expect to find ample opportunities for career growth and development. As a company that is committed to investing in its workforce, CRST provides its employees with a variety of programs and resources to help them advance their careers and achieve their professional goals.
- Training and Development Programs: One of the key ways that CRST supports career growth and development is through its extensive training and development programs. From on-the-job training to external certification courses, CRST provides employees with the tools and resources they need to enhance their skills and knowledge and move up the career ladder.
- Leadership Development: CRST recognizes the importance of strong leadership in driving business success. To that end, the company offers a variety of leadership development programs and initiatives, including mentorship opportunities, executive coaching, and leadership training seminars.
- Career Pathing: CRST is committed to helping its employees achieve their career goals. Through a robust career pathing program, employees can work with managers and HR professionals to identify potential career paths within the company and develop a plan to achieve their career ambitions.
Here is a sample table showing the different career paths and opportunities within CRST:
| Role | Potential Career Path |
|---|---|
| Driver | Team Driver, Trainer, Fleet Manager, Safety Manager, Operations Manager |
| Dispatcher | Operations Manager, Transportation Manager, Logistics Manager, Vice President of Operations |
| HR Coordinator | HR Manager, Director of Talent Acquisition, Vice President of Human Resources |
Overall, CRST is committed to providing its employees with the opportunities and resources they need to succeed and grow within the company. With a focus on training and development, leadership, and career pathing, CRST is an excellent company for those seeking to advance their careers in the transportation industry.
Driver Training Programs
CRST International is committed to providing quality and comprehensive training programs to prepare drivers for a successful career in the trucking industry. Here are some of the features of their driver training programs:
- CRST offers both company-sponsored CDL training and a tuition reimbursement program for those who have already obtained their CDL.
- Their training program is designed to provide students with the knowledge and skills needed to pass the CDL test and become successful truck drivers.
- The program includes classroom instruction, hands-on training, and on-the-road experience with a certified trainer.
- Students are able to earn a paycheck during their training period, which typically lasts between 4-6 weeks.
- CRST also offers a student driver program for those who have recently completed their training and are looking to gain more experience on the road.
- The program provides additional training and support to help drivers become more confident and successful on the job.
- CRST is committed to providing ongoing training and development opportunities to help drivers improve their skills and advance their careers.
- The company has a dedicated training department and a team of experienced trainers who are committed to helping drivers succeed.
Overall, the driver training programs at CRST International are designed to provide students with the tools and resources needed to succeed in the trucking industry. With a focus on safety, quality, and professionalism, CRST is a great company to work for if you are looking to start or advance your career as a truck driver.
Benefits of CRST Driver Training Programs
In addition to providing comprehensive training programs, CRST International also offers a range of benefits to its drivers. These include:
- Competitive pay and benefits packages
- Opportunities for advancement and career growth
- A supportive and collaborative work environment
- A commitment to safety and professionalism
- Access to state-of-the-art equipment and technology
Training Facilities and Equipment
CRST International operates a number of training facilities across the United States, each equipped with state-of-the-art equipment and technology to provide students with a realistic and immersive training experience. The company also invests in the latest technology and equipment for its drivers, to ensure they have the tools they need to do their job safely and efficiently.
| Training facilities | Location |
|---|---|
| CRST Cedar Rapids Training Facility | Cedar Rapids, Iowa |
| CRST Fontana Training Facility | Fontana, California |
| CRST Jacksonville Training Facility | Jacksonville, Florida |
| CRST Oklahoma Training Facility | Oklahoma City, Oklahoma |
| CRST Phoenix Training Facility | Phoenix, Arizona |
Overall, CRST International is a great company to work for if you are looking for a comprehensive and supportive driver training program. With a commitment to safety, professionalism, and career development, CRST is dedicated to helping drivers succeed and thrive in the trucking industry.
Employee Reviews and Feedback
One of the best ways to evaluate a company’s performance is through its employees’ reviews and feedback. In terms of CRST International, many employees have shared their experiences and thoughts about working for the company.
- Based on Glassdoor reviews, CRST International has an overall rating of 3.1 out of 5 stars, with around 700 reviews. This rating is average but it is worth noting that every experience may differ, and it is best to read through individual reviews before making conclusions.
- A main highlight in the employee reviews is the company’s training program for its drivers. Many employees appreciate the company’s initiative in investing in its employees’ professional growth, which goes beyond just providing a job.
- On the other hand, some employees have expressed concerns about the long working hours and the difficulty in maintaining a healthy work-life balance.
It is crucial to take note that many of the reviews are subjective and may be influenced by the individual’s personal experience. Regardless, it’s important to be aware of the commonalities that emerge in the reviews and feedback, such as CRST’s notable driver training program.
CRST International recognizes the opinions of its employees and encourages feedback to improve the work environment and experience for all employees. The company offers surveys and open communication channels between management and employees to ensure that everyone’s voices are heard and issues can be addressed.
In summary, CRST International receives mixed reviews and feedback from employees, but one thing is clear — the company is dedicated to investing in the professional growth of its employees and values open communication.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| – Great driver training program | – Long working hours |
| – Open communication channels between management and employees | – Difficulty maintaining a healthy work-life balance |
CRST International’s employee reviews and feedback indicate that the company has a strong focus on employee training and professional growth. Despite some concerns regarding long working hours, open channels of communication and a willingness to address employee feedback demonstrate a commitment to improving the company culture and work environment.
CRST’s CSR and Sustainability Initiatives
CRST International is one of the leading privately held transportation companies in the United States. Apart from its focus on providing quality and reliable transportation services to its customers, the company also has a strong commitment to Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and sustainability. CRST’s CSR and sustainability initiatives are designed to promote business sustainability, employee engagement, environmental responsibility and community development.
- Community Involvement: CRST International has a long history of supporting various community programs, including donations to local charities and volunteering. They are also involved in a program called the Veteran’s Employment Transition (VET) Program, which aims to provide job opportunities to military veterans.
- Employee Engagement: The company ensures a positive work environment for its employees by providing various training and development opportunities. They also have a comprehensive wellness program for their employees.
- Environmental Responsibility: CRST is committed to reducing its carbon footprint, promoting fuel efficiency, and reducing waste. The company has implemented various measures to reduce emissions, such as the use of alternative fuels in its fleet and investing in technologies that improve fuel efficiency.
The company’s sustainability report showcases the various initiatives and milestones they have accomplished. CRST’s commitment to sustainable business practices and community service sets them apart from other companies in their industry.
Additionally, the company has received numerous accolades for its commitment to CSR and sustainability initiatives. These awards include the Stevie Awards, which recognizes excellence in corporate citizenship, and the Corporate Social Responsibility Award, which recognizes companies that contribute to the community in a positive way.
| Awards & Recognition | Achievements |
|---|---|
| Stevie Awards – Silver | Excellence in Corporate Citizenship |
| Corporate Social Responsibility Award | Contributing to Community Development |
| SmartWay Excellence Award | Promoting Clean Transportation |
CRST’s CSR and sustainability initiatives demonstrate the company’s commitment to being a responsible and sustainable business. The organization shows that it is possible to be a profitable business while also prioritizing the well-being of its employees, the environment, and the community.
Is CRST a Good Company to Work For? Our Verdict
Overall, after our thorough research and analysis of both positive and negative aspects of CRST as a trucking company, we can say that it’s definitely on the good side. They offer great benefits, competitive pay, and an array of choices for advancement and development. However, it’s not without its cons, like any other company. But if you’re a new driver looking for a stable company to start your career with, or an experienced one searching for further growth, we’d say give CRST a shot. Thanks for reading our review and we hope to see you again soon!