good answer drummerforhire,some people would whine if you paid then a dollar a mile,and all expenses. I too have worked for a much worst company. Estes won't force a small percent of their work force to take a big pay cut,while the rest of the company stays at the same pay. or go back on their word,like some companies do.
As far as the 15+ hr lay overs,that is rare here. But in the LTL world it is a fact of life sometimes. Try driving for a T/L carrier,and wait 2 or 3 days to get moving,thats a lot of fun.
I don't know anything about a wage freeze. I've been here 7 months and got my first raise right on time. Hope it keeps up.
Estes has good insurance,good pay,and good benefits. So far I am very happy here. Somebody thinks they can do better elsewhere,then I wish them luck.