Different TOCs/FOCs driving experiences

[BB1991]

Hi can I please ask any drivers here what they think of their firms I probably have another 30/40 years driving ahead of me and just want an honest opinion on what it’s like working for each company possibly going forward.

 

[trevzx6]

I worked as a driver for a foc, went to a toc and have recently gone back. Driving freight is much better in my opinion, less weekend work and less very early starts. Pension not as good as at a toc but lifestyle is much better

 

[guard1]

I worked as a driver for a foc, went to a toc and have recently gone back. Driving freight is much better in my opinion, less weekend work and less very early starts. Pension not as good as at a toc but lifestyle is much better

I'm looking for a move to freight. I assumed there would be loads of early starts and anti-social shifts?

 

[nb2001uk]

I worked as a driver for a foc, went to a toc and have recently gone back. Driving freight is much better in my opinion, less weekend work and less very early starts. Pension not as good as at a toc but lifestyle is much better

what FOC have you gone back to? if you dont mind me asking

 

[cossie4i]

It really depends what you want.
If you want shorter shifts, good facilities and be able to plan what you are doing for 6 months stay with a TOC
If you actually want to Drive a train and don’t mind what you are doing week to week, long shifts, poor facilities etc then a FOC

 

[trevzx6]

I'm looking for a move to freight. I assumed there would be loads of early starts and anti-social shifts?

Obviously it depends on the foc and which depot you are based at but in my situation there are very few weekends but quite a few nights which suits me better than 0230/0300 book ons and working every other weekend

 

[Horizon22]

Each company? There's about 20-30. What exactly are you after? What constitutes an "experience"?

This is a rather vague question and it would be great if you could clarify.