Trucking: Mid West Companies hiring & training newbes, relocation allowance, insurance maintenance

Question
Thank you John,

I appreciate your very informative answer to my question on December 16 about what types of loads will maximum my earnings.  You mentioned in that answer that you would make a few calls to see if you could recommend a Mid West Trucking Company that is hiring and training OTR drivers.  I was wondering if you had any additional info

A signing bonus (probably not offered to newbie's) or relocation allowance (advance) would be helpful because I am relocating from Los Angeles to the Omaha, Des Moines or maybe Sioux Falls area within the next 30 days.

I think that I am looking for a good company that will advance the cost of CDL and OTR training in exchange for a year contract to driver.  This sound like it could be a good deal for me depending on the training costs, terms of repayment, earning potential, benefits and equipment options.  

It is important to me that I drive the newest and best equipment practical for a newbie so I am also seeking advice regarding leasing vs. company equipment

There seems to be a range of business models from Company Drivers that have no involvement or responsibility other than to drive whatever equipment and load dispatch assigns them to Owner Operators that are one truck companies looking for their next load.  Neither of these interests me.  I am concerned about fuel, insurance, maintenance costs.  Can you recommend some terms that I should look for or avoid?

Thank you for any info or advise you have for me!

BillT

Answer
Bill, we are at a point where I dont think I am qualified to give you additional answers. I am just afraid that my opinions could potentially lead you astray and this is far too important of a decision.

Almost everyone that I know is out today. Im going to try and put you in touch with someone on the operations side that can better answer your questions.

If you fail to see a response from me by Tuesday, please email me and cuss me !