Is Melton a Good Company to Drive For? A Comprehensive Review

Is Melton a good company to drive for? Let’s face it, truckers are the backbone of the American economy, and their hard work and dedication are what make our way of life possible. That is why choosing the right trucking company is so important. There are thousands of trucking companies out there – some good, some not so good. But when it comes to Melton Truck Lines, there is no doubt about it – this is a company that truly shines in the industry.

So, what makes Melton a good company to drive for? For starters, their commitment to their drivers is unmatched. With competitive pay rates, excellent benefits packages, and top-notch training programs, they show their drivers that they truly value their hard work and dedication. But it’s not just about compensation – Melton also puts a strong emphasis on safety and compliance, ensuring that their drivers have the resources they need to stay safe on the road and remain in compliance with all state and federal regulations.

Another key factor that makes Melton a good company to drive for is their focus on innovation. From their state-of-the-art equipment and technology to their progressive approach to sustainability, Melton is always at the forefront of new and exciting developments in the industry. This commitment to innovation not only makes the job more enjoyable for drivers, but it also allows them to stay ahead of the curve in an ever-changing industry. So, if you’re looking for a company that truly values its drivers and is committed to excellence in everything they do, then Melton Truck Lines is the perfect choice.

History of Melton Truck Lines

Melton Truck Lines began in 1954 by the late R.V. “Buddy” Melton with a singular truck hauling goods around the United States. Today, the fleet has grown to 1,300 trucks and 2,800 trailers. The Oklahoma-based company prides itself on a strong safety record and commitment to environmentally-friendly practices, as well as supporting the military and veteran communities.

Key Milestones

  • 1954: R.V. “Buddy” Melton starts Melton Truck Lines with one truck.
  • 1960s: Melton expands the fleet to serve a wider customer base.
  • 1974: The company moves its headquarters to Tulsa, Oklahoma.
  • 1980s-1990s: Melton continues to grow, adding new technology and expanding its service offerings.
  • 2005: Melton becomes a SmartWay Transport Partner, committing to sustainable practices.
  • 2014: The company celebrates its 60th anniversary.
  • 2020: Melton earns the Military Friendly Employer designation for its commitment to hiring and supporting military veterans.

Company Culture

Melton Truck Lines prides itself on a strong safety culture, with a safety department actively working to prevent accidents and incidents. The company encourages communication among drivers and management, including regular driver meetings. Additionally, Melton values giving back to the community and is actively involved in supporting military and veteran organizations.

Environmental Commitment

Melton Truck Lines is committed to reducing its carbon footprint and has been a SmartWay Transport Partner since 2005. The company has invested in newer, fuel-efficient trucks and uses trailer skirts and wide-based tires to reduce drag and improve fuel efficiency. Melton also utilizes a paperless system for much of its paperwork.

Environmental Initiatives Description
SmartWay Partnership Commitment to fuel-efficient practices and reducing emissions.
Advanced Technology Investment in newer, more efficient trucks and use of aerodynamic equipment.
Paperless System Reduces paper waste in the office and for drivers.

Company Culture at Melton

At Melton, the company culture is one of the main reasons why drivers choose to work and stay with the company. The company values its employees and makes an effort to create a positive work environment where drivers feel valued and supported.

  • Melton offers a family-oriented culture where drivers and employees are treated like family members. The company’s management understands that drivers spend a significant amount of time away from their families and ensures that their workplace feels like a home away from home.
  • The company prioritizes safety and maintains a safety culture that emphasizes the importance of proper training, communication, and continuous improvement. Drivers are encouraged to speak up and report any safety concerns they may have, and the company provides them with the necessary resources to address these concerns.
  • Melton has a team-oriented culture that encourages collaboration and communication among different teams and departments. The company’s management encourages drivers to communicate with dispatchers, maintenance crew, and other teams to ensure smooth operations.

Overall, the company culture at Melton is one of respect, teamwork, and safety. The company values its employees and considers them its most important asset. The culture ensures that drivers feel valued, supported, and motivated to deliver their best work.

Training and Development for Melton Drivers

When it comes to training and development, Melton is dedicated to ensuring their drivers have the skills and knowledge they need to excel. They offer a comprehensive training program designed to prepare drivers for the road and keep them up-to-date on the latest regulations and safety protocols.

  • New Hire Orientation: All new drivers go through a thorough orientation program that covers everything from paperwork and company policies to vehicle safety and road regulations.
  • On-the-Job Training: Melton provides on-the-job training for all drivers, ensuring they have the necessary skills to operate the vehicle and handle any issues that may arise.
  • Continuing Education: Melton offers ongoing training and development opportunities, including online courses and in-person seminars, to help drivers stay up-to-date and improve their skills.

In addition to training programs, Melton invests in their drivers by providing them with the latest technology and equipment. This ensures they are well-equipped to handle any situation on the road and can do their job safely and efficiently.

One unique aspect of Melton’s training and development program is the Driver Mentor Program. This program pairs new drivers with experienced mentors who can teach them the ropes, answer questions, and provide guidance and support. This is a valuable resource for new drivers and helps them build confidence and expertise.

Training and Development Highlights
New hire orientation covers everything from paperwork and company policies to vehicle safety and road regulations.
Ongoing training and development opportunities keep drivers up-to-date and improve their skills.
The Driver Mentor Program pairs new drivers with experienced mentors to provide guidance and support.

In summary, Melton is a great company to drive for when it comes to training and development. They are committed to ensuring their drivers have the skills and knowledge they need to succeed on the road and offer comprehensive training programs and ongoing education opportunities. Additionally, their Driver Mentor Program is a unique and valuable resource for new drivers looking to build expertise and confidence.

Pay and Benefits at Melton

One of the most important factors to consider when driving for a trucking company is the pay and benefits offered. In this subsection, we will take a closer look at what Melton Truck Lines has to offer in terms of compensation and employee benefits.

  • Pay: Melton Truck Lines boasts one of the highest pay scales in the industry, with experienced drivers earning up to 50 cents per mile. In addition, the company offers a pay increase to drivers who maintain a high safety rating, and also pays weekly instead of biweekly.
  • Bonuses: Melton also offers its drivers several bonus opportunities, including a sign-on bonus, safety bonuses, and clean inspection bonuses. Drivers who refer others to the company can also earn a referral bonus.
  • Retirement: Employees at Melton have access to a 401(k) plan with company match and immediate vesting, which helps drivers to prepare for their retirement and secure their financial future.

When it comes to benefits, Melton Truck Lines is committed to offering its employees comprehensive coverage and support.

  • Health Insurance: Employees at Melton have access to medical, dental, and vision insurance, with the company covering up to 80% of the premiums. Additionally, employees can select from various levels of coverage and choose the one that best suits their needs and budget.
  • Safety Program: Melton Truck Lines places a significant emphasis on safety, as evidenced by its comprehensive safety program. The company provides safety training and resources to its drivers and rewards those who maintain a high safety rating with bonuses and pay raises.
  • Life Insurance: Melton also offers life insurance to its employees, providing financial protection to their loved ones in the event of an unfortunate accident.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Melton Truck Lines is a solid choice for drivers looking for high pay, comprehensive benefits, and a commitment to safety. With its excellent pay scale, bonus opportunities, and retirement benefits, Melton provides drivers with the tools and resources they need to thrive in their career. Additionally, the company’s focus on safety and employee well-being sets it apart from other trucking companies, making it a top choice for drivers searching for a reliable and supportive employer.

Company Benefits Melton Truck Lines
Medical, Dental, Vision Insurance
401(k) Plan with Company Match
Life Insurance
Safety Bonuses and Program
High Pay Scale

Melton Truck Lines offers competitive pay, comprehensive benefits, and a strong emphasis on safety, making it an ideal choice for drivers looking for a top-tier employer in the trucking industry.

Equipment Quality at Melton

As a truck driver, the quality of equipment that you utilize can make all the difference in your job. Melton takes equipment quality very seriously, as it plays a major role in keeping their drivers safe on the road.

Melton has a comprehensive maintenance program that ensures all equipment is in top shape before it ever hits the road. In addition, they invest in premium equipment brands, such as Peterbilt and Kenworth, to provide their drivers with reliable and comfortable trucks to operate.

Here are some key features of Melton’s equipment:

  • State-of-the-art technology for optimal performance
  • Comfortable sleeping quarters with upgraded mattresses and bedding
  • GPS tracking for added safety and security

Why Equipment Quality Matters

Investing in high-quality equipment is not only beneficial for the driver, but also for the company. When drivers operate reliable and well-maintained trucks, they are less likely to experience breakdowns or accidents that can cause delays in delivery times. In turn, this improves customer satisfaction and can lead to increased business for Melton.

The Bottom Line

Melton places a strong emphasis on providing its drivers with top-of-the-line equipment. With a comprehensive maintenance program and investment in premium brands, drivers can feel confident and safe while on the road. As a result, Melton is a top choice for many truck drivers who value quality and reliability.

Equipment Features Benefits
State-of-the-art technology Optimal performance and safety
Comfortable sleeping quarters Improved driver rest and well-being
GPS tracking Enhanced security and logistics management

In conclusion, Melton’s commitment to equipment quality is a major draw for drivers who prioritize safety, comfort, and reliability. With top-of-the-line brands and a comprehensive maintenance program, Melton is a great choice for anyone looking for a company that goes above and beyond to support their drivers.

Safety Record of Melton

Melton is a company known for prioritizing the safety of their drivers. They implement strict protocols to ensure that their drivers are always safe while on the road. Some factors that make Melton a good company to drive for in terms of safety are:

  • Regular vehicle maintenance – Melton ensures that their vehicles are always in top condition. Regular maintenance checks are scheduled to prevent any untoward incidents while on the road.
  • Comprehensive Safety Training – Before sending out their drivers, Melton provides comprehensive safety training to ensure that their drivers are equipped with the knowledge and skills they need to avoid accidents. They also have ongoing driver training to keep their drivers informed and updated about any changes or additions to traffic laws.
  • Technology Aids – Melton uses the latest technology to improve their drivers’ safety on the road. They have onboard computers on their trucks to monitor driving behavior and send data to their safety department for evaluation. They also have safety measures like automatic emergency brakes and lane departure warnings on their vehicles.

It is clear that Melton takes the safety of their drivers seriously. Their safety record speaks for itself: In 2020, they had a 0.62% DOT reportable accident frequency rate and a 0.28% DOT recordable accident frequency rate, which are both lower than the industry average.

DOT Reportable Accident Frequency Rate DOT Recordable Accident Frequency Rate
Melton 0.62% 0.28%
Industry Average 1.8% 2.4%

These numbers show that Melton is doing something right when it comes to safety. Drivers can feel secure knowing that they work for a company that prioritizes their well-being on the road.

Job Security at Melton

When it comes to job security, Melton goes above and beyond to ensure their drivers have a stable career. Here are some of the ways Melton provides job security for their drivers:

  • Consistent workload: Melton has a customer base that provides steady work for their drivers, which means less downtime and more opportunities for earning.
  • Benefits: Melton offers a comprehensive benefits package including health, dental, and vision insurance, as well as a 401(k) retirement plan, ensuring long-term financial security for their drivers.
  • Training: Melton provides extensive training for their drivers, ensuring they are well-equipped to handle any situation on the road, which increases their job security by providing them with the skills they need to succeed.

In addition to these measures, Melton also offers a number of programs and resources to support and empower their drivers:

  • Driver mentors: Melton matches new drivers with experienced driver mentors to help them navigate their first year on the road. This added support can help drivers feel more secure in their new career.
  • Driver Appreciation Week: Each year Melton holds a week-long celebration to show appreciation for their drivers and their hard work. This not only boosts morale but also reinforces Melton’s commitment to their drivers’ job security.
  • Employee Assistance Program: Melton offers an Employee Assistance Program that provides confidential support and counseling for a variety of personal and professional issues. This can be a valuable resource for drivers who may be facing challenges that could negatively impact their job security.

Overall, Melton’s commitment to their drivers’ job security sets them apart from other trucking companies. With their consistent workload, comprehensive benefits package, and resources to support and empower their drivers, Melton is a great company for drivers looking for a stable and fulfilling career on the road.

Routes and Territories of Melton Drivers

As a truck driver, one of the most important factors to consider when working for a company is the routes and territories available for drivers. Melton is known for offering a variety of different routes, giving drivers flexibility and the opportunity to choose the type of driving they prefer.

At Melton, drivers can choose from a variety of routes, including:

  • Regional
  • Dedicated
  • Over-The-Road

Regional routes typically cover a specific region such as the Midwest or the Southeast, and are ideal for drivers who prefer to stay closer to home. Dedicated routes are for drivers who prefer the same route and stops every day, such as transporting goods for a specific company. Over-The-Road routes are ideal for drivers who prefer to travel across the country and see different parts of the United States.

In addition to flexible routes, Melton also offers territories that allow drivers to specialize in certain types of freight, such as flatbed, step deck, or oversized loads. Melton drivers can also specialize in hauling certain types of freight by obtaining specialized endorsements such as Hazmat or Tanker endorsements.

Territory Description
Flatbed Transporting flatbed loads such as steel, lumber, and machinery.
Step deck Transporting over-height and over-length loads such as heavy equipment and construction materials.
Oversized loads Transporting oversized loads such as wind turbines, large machinery, and bridge sections.

Melton also offers driver teams the opportunity to specialize in team driving, allowing drivers to travel longer distances without having to take breaks as often and provides the opportunity to earn more money.

In conclusion, Melton offers a variety of routes and territories for drivers, providing flexibility and the opportunity to choose the type of driving that best suits their needs. Whether you prefer regional, dedicated, or over-the-road routes, there is a Melton route that would suit you. With these options, drivers can create a customized career path, which is why Melton is a great company to drive for.

Opportunities for Advancement at Melton

At Melton, the company values its employees and provides various opportunities for growth and progression within the company. As a driver for Melton, you have the chance to advance in your career and take on new challenges that help you develop your skills and experience.

  • Internal promotions: Melton prioritizes promoting from within the company, which means that you can work your way up the career ladder and advance to higher positions, such as team leader or manager.
  • Training and development programs: The company offers various training programs that focus on developing your skills and knowledge to help you excel in your role. These programs include safety training, leadership training, and driver mentoring.
  • Cross-functional opportunities: Melton provides opportunities for drivers to move into other departments within the company, such as logistics, sales, or customer service. This gives drivers an opportunity to gain new experiences and skills while advancing in their careers.

In addition to the above opportunities, the company also rewards hard work and dedication through performance bonuses, driver awards, and recognition programs.

Overall, Melton is a great company to work for if you are looking for opportunities for advancement in your professional career. Whether you want to move up in the company or gain new skills in a different area, Melton offers the resources and support you need to grow in your role.

Conclusion

With its commitment to employee development and internal growth, Melton is a top choice for drivers who are looking for opportunities to advance in their careers. Whether you are a seasoned driver or just starting out in the trucking industry, Melton offers the resources and support you need to achieve your career goals.

Pros Cons
Opportunities for advancement within the company May require relocation for certain positions
Training and development programs to improve skills Long hours on the road required for the job
Cross-functional opportunities to gain new experiences Some positions may require additional certifications or licenses

Overall, Melton offers a great opportunity for drivers who want to grow and build a successful career in the trucking industry.

Reviews and Testimonials of Melton Drivers

When considering a trucking company to work for, one of the most important factors to take into account is the experiences of current and former drivers. The opinions and insights of those who have actually worked for the company can provide a wealth of information about the culture, compensation, and overall satisfaction of the job.

  • Several Melton drivers have spoken highly about the company’s commitment to safety and training. Many praise the extensive orientation process and ongoing educational opportunities for improving skills and knowledge.
  • Drivers also appreciate the competitive pay rates and benefits offered by Melton. Many have commented on the transparency and accuracy of pay, as well as the accessible insurance, vacation time, and retirement plans.
  • Additionally, the company’s emphasis on family and work-life balance has earned praise from many drivers. Melton offers its drivers a significant amount of time off the road, as well as flexible home time to accommodate personal needs and responsibilities.

However, as with any company, there are also some criticisms and negative comments to be found in Melton driver reviews. Some drivers have reported feeling disconnected or undervalued by the company, or experiencing issues with equipment maintenance and breakdowns. It’s important to keep in mind that experiences can vary widely depending on individual circumstances and expectations.

Below, we take a closer look at some specific examples of driver reviews and testimonials for Melton:

Positive Reviews Negative Reviews
“Melton is by far the best company I have ever worked for! The pay is great and the benefits are amazing.” “The equipment is old and unreliable. I’ve had to spend too much time in the shop.”
“The training program is top-notch and ongoing. I feel supported and encouraged to improve my skills.” “The communication from dispatch can be frustrating. I’ve been left waiting for loads with no information.”
“I appreciate the flexibility and respect given to home time and family obligations.” “The pressure to meet tight delivery deadlines can be stressful and exhausting.”

Overall, the reviews and testimonials from Melton drivers suggest that the company is a strong choice for those seeking a stable and supportive trucking career. While there are some challenges and criticisms to be aware of, the positive feedback regarding safety, compensation, and work-life balance make Melton a worthy consideration for any driver.

Wrapping it Up

In conclusion, if you are looking for a company that values their drivers and offers competitive pay and benefits, then Melton is definitely a good company to drive for. Overall, they provide a positive experience for those who want to work hard and achieve their goals. Thank you for taking the time to read this article and we hope to see you again soon for more informative content. Happy driving!