Melton Truck Lines, a major flatbed carrier based in Tulsa, Oklahoma, has announced what the company said is the largest driver pay increase in its history.
A statement from Melton said all company drivers will receive some sort of increase. The company's pay scale varies depending on experience and tenure. This increase will start student drivers at 47 cents per mile and will give the most experienced drivers 63 CPM. Melton’s base pay increase keeps the company in the top industry pay scale according to the National Survey of Driver Wages, the company said.
In February 2021, Melton increased tarp pay from $50 to $100. Along with this increase, Melton drivers will have opportunities to earn additional pay including a $5,400 fuel bonus, additional 16 CPM pay for over-dimensional loads, extra 6 CPM pay for Canada and hazmat loads, and various other opportunities.
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“I’m so proud of our drivers’ unmatched bravery and dedication to the job, especially throughout this past year," said Melton's Chairman and CEO Bob Peterson. "They truly drive our company’s success, and we are pleased to offer a stable, highly rewarding career path.
"Given the current freight environment and gradual recovery from the pandemic, we are excited for what the rest of this year has in store. With industry-wide driver hiring challenges, we find our new pay package far exceeds other carriers when accounting for our $100 tarp pay, bonus pay, and additional opportunities. We know Melton flatbed drivers are the best in the country and deserve every penny. We will continue to maintain a culture of safety, professionalism and most of all – family – where everyone goes the extra mile to be exceptional.”
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In business for over 67 years, Melton has offices and terminals in Tulsa; Laredo, and El Paso, Texas; Birmingham, Alabama and Masury, Ohio along with a business and sales office in Monterrey, Mexico. Melton has some 1,165 drivers.
