In response to a nationwide surplus of freight, AFC Transport is rewarding company drivers with new equipment and the biggest pay increase in the company’s history, the Gary, Indiana-based company said today.
For flatbed drivers, AFC Transport is raising pay rates from 55 cents per mile to 60 cents. Pay for refrigerated, drivers pay is increasing from 51 cents per mile to 55 cents. Drivers can also choose to be paid a percentage of the total gross pay for each load.
“It’s a hard job, and our drivers have been working even harder than usual to keep up with the demand in this market,” said Jason Schaftlein, general manager at AFC Transport. “We saw that our drivers deserved a raise, but we wanted to do even more to show our appreciation.”
In addition to giving drivers a record pay increase, AFC Transport has purchased over 60 new trucks. The new Peterbilt 579, 567 and 389 trucks are equipped with Cummins engines and new 53′ Reitnouer flatbed trailers. Drivers were surveyed about their preferences, and Schaftlein said the new trucks were “spec’d out” with all the amenities that mattered most to drivers, including auxiliary power units, inverters, refrigerators and microwaves. Some of the company’s older equipment is being replaced in this process, as both 13-speeds and trucks with automatic transmissions are being added to the fleet.
“We listened carefully to our drivers, even down to the look and feel of the trucks,” Schaftlein said, “We wanted to create the best possible work environment for these guys.”
AFC Transport said drivers are particularly needed in the Southeast Regional Flatbed Division, the newest division at AFC Transport. Other job opportunities include regional flatbed routes in the Midwest and Northeast as well as Over the Road positions.
“We have a lot of openings for drivers who want to return home weekly, especially in the Southeast,” Schaftlein said, “Between the new trucks, regular home time and industry-leading pay, AFC Transport makes it clear that drivers are our top priority.”
Headquartered in Gary, Indiana, AFC Transport is a family-owned trucking company serving the lower 48 states. Since 2012, the fleet has grown to 160 trucks hauling flatbed, step deck, Conestoga and refrigerated trailers. Common loads include steel, machinery, industrial equipment, building materials, and industrial equipment.
