Its seems like in each contract the newhires are getting longer progressions to trade for higher raises for more senior drivers. I think this is the way it should be. I know we all do the same job, but the more seasoned drivers should recieve a higher wage in my opinion.
When I started driving, I was under a 2-year progression (I thought this was long so I feel for you guys under the 3 year term!), but our yearly raise was like $0.65 or $0.70 at the end of the contract.
Then came the '02 contract with the 2.5 year progression. So what? We were getting $0.80, $0.95, and $1.00 raises towards the end of that deal and how could you complain about that???
Now, the '08 contract has the "newbies" waiting 3 years before top rate and the "veterans" are not getting the significant raises we were recieving under the '02 contract.
That being said, we will still be getting raises and our health and pension contributions are the same, so I can't complain. I am satisfied with what we got, especially in this economy.
Also, the newhires might think they are getting the short end of the stick. I think they are not. UPS benefits because they don't have to pay top-rate for somebody who will not be as efficient as UPS would like or a driver with 5 years under his belt. Yet, this newhire (if he makes it) will go from making 15 bucks an hour to start to $33 an hour in less than 3 years.
How can you argue against that? He will more than double his salary if he stays at UPS. This amazes me. Just think about it. Here is this guy getting buy on $15-$18 per hour. In three short years he will be making $33 per hour! Twice as much!
Just think about how life got much easier for this guy? If he wasn't living above his means prior to top rate, he now has an extra 20-30 grand per year to make himself VERY comfortable!
Newhires, take HEED of this post and be smart.