SAIA | Union

RIPDavey28

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Yes I said it! I know that’s taboo here but I think from what I’m hearing, it’s a topic that should be readdressed. Now before you go crazy on this, let me first say that I certainly have reservations myself about one for many reasons including being screwed by the UAW in the 90’s so I’m not all in but I also wonder if some representation would level the field for us. Just asking opinions. The pay and benefits are good but the level of respect(or lack of)here is the worst I’ve ever worked at, honestly, and the company knows that there’s nothing your going to do about it. Would a union solve this ??? Seems to me, SAIA is busting at the seems for one. I grew up in a family of steel workers from the 60s and 70s who fought for fair treatment by abusive employers and realize unions aren’t what they once were but to constantly watch the strong arm tactics from management here without any repercussions is embarrassing. I would weigh the pros and cons but I know I’m not going to sell out my work ethic for be treated like a pos. We all work hard for this company and should, that’s what we’re contracted to do but shouldn’t be walked all over for money either. Is a union worth it, I’m asking myself that or should we just bitch about it and do nothing, if so, I guess a thank you sir, may I have another will do.
 
I can't say Saia needs one cause I've never worked there. That being said I've worked for 3 non union ltl carriers over the years and can truly say since the great recession things have gone downhill for drivers. I choose to work union now cause of the things I've personally experienced being a hard worker and being walked all over when I worked non. Having rules that have to be applied to everyone equally is worth more to me now than an extra dollar. Better benefits as I get older also become a spot that moves higher up my list of priorities in a job. A union doesn't solve everything but it keeps things from getting out of hand when favoritism and working conditions get thrown out the window.
 
It just amazes me how the majority of drivers complain about the work conditions and treatment here but do absolutely nothing about it. The mentality is as if there’s nothing you can do and might as well accept it. Well I personally give this company 100% and won’t roll over when tactics are tainted by managerial misfits. I’m not going to feel like a hostage here while these idiots pad their resumes.
 
I have threw it out there before to guys and was surprised at how many that bashed unions in the past we’re open to a listen now with the deteriorating work bs. I know mngt will be gunning for people to make examples of and that will be a huge test that will make many play Judus but I certainly think that as long as a conversation is started with reps, the company will take us seriously at least.
 
Ive never been a union guy but if my employer decided to stick a camera in my face while driving,I think I could be persuaded..At least look for a different color truck to drive.

Unions don’t matter for cameras. Plenty of union trucking jobs that have cameras. Sysco and US Foods have cams. Both teamsters. Also there are tanker outfits that are union that have drive cam.
 
Unions don’t matter for cameras. Plenty of union trucking jobs that have cameras. Sysco and US Foods have cams. Both teamsters. Also there are tanker outfits that are union that have drive cam.
Union companies do have them indeed. Having rules in place for how their used and having a progressive disciplinary policy in place that must be followed helps keep them in check as good as things like this can be.
 
Unions don’t matter for cameras. Plenty of union trucking jobs that have cameras. Sysco and US Foods have cams. Both teamsters. Also there are tanker outfits that are union that have drive cam.
Everyone have different issues for seeking representation.The camera issue would be near the top of my list..Should be an easy win for a decent negotiator.
 
Here's our camera policy at NEMF. We don't have them yet to my knowledge anywhere.
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A lot of great info drivers, I absolutely hate the cameras inward, would have no problem with them outward and that should be a good negotiated point but more than that is that it’s the companies mentality. The lopsided consequences that always causes strife. Do they want longevity in there employees or are they so blinded by greed that they would care less? I can’t keep up with there constant policy changes because there always making a new one. Look how many people in upper management are gone in the last 2 years. I’ve only been here 6 years but have seen some of the most paranoid people I’ve ever worked with. That culture needs to change, quality drivers and employees have made this company and we shouldn’t be run over. If it takes union rep then so be it, it may be a win win for both sides, don’t know but last I heard, we are on a 1:1 ratio of hires to quits. Would be interested in hearing a different side because this dog and pony show can’t possibly last.
 
Better off being Union it's almost impossible to fire a teamster driver grievances will deadlock eventually rule in your favor union brothers will never vote against a fellow teamster like the mafia never resign from a union job! We had a driver get his job back after getting a DUI while pulling triples, accidents, failed drug/alcohol tests. If you work for a non union company they just get rid of you no recourse remember if you ever need FMLA but need more than 12 weeks mosts companies will just fire you VOTE UNION.
 
Better off being Union it's almost impossible to fire a teamster driver grievances will deadlock eventually rule in your favor union brothers will never vote against a fellow teamster like the mafia never resign from a union job! We had a driver get his job back after getting a DUI while pulling triples, accidents, failed drug/alcohol tests. If you work for a non union company they just get rid of you no recourse remember if you ever need FMLA but need more than 12 weeks mosts companies will just fire you VOTE UNION.
Vote how? Never seen a union rep at my place
 
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