Does ABF Freight do background checks?

Yes, ABF conducts background checks for all positions. CDL positions require DOT-compliant checks.

Is ABF Freight union?

Yes, ABF Freight employees are represented by the International Brotherhood of Teamsters, which provides union pay scales, benefits, and job protections.

Does ABF Freight drug test?

Yes, especially for CDL positions which require DOT-mandated drug and alcohol testing.

How much does ABF Freight pay?

Dock workers earn $18-$25/hour under the Teamsters contract. CDL drivers earn more. Pay is standardized through the union contract.

Does ABF Freight Hire Felons?

Last updated: 2026-04-01

Sometimes

ABF Freight hires some people with records for dock worker and warehouse positions. CDL driving has DOT requirements.

ABF Freight (part of ArcBest) hires some people with felony records, primarily for dock worker and freight handler positions. ABF is a major less-than-truckload (LTL) carrier with over 240 service centers across the US. Dock worker positions are the most accessible for people with records. CDL driving positions require DOT-compliant background checks and have specific waiting periods for felony convictions. ABF's union environment (Teamsters) provides additional job protections for employees.

Hiring by Position

Position	Felon Friendly?	Background Check	Notes
Dock Worker / Freight Handler	Sometimes	Yes	Most accessible role. Loading/unloading freight. Physical labor. Union (Teamsters).
Forklift Operator	Sometimes	Yes	Operating forklifts on the dock. Certification may be provided.
City Driver (CDL)	Sometimes	Yes — DOT compliant	Local P&D driving. DOT requirements with waiting periods for felonies.
Road Driver (CDL)	Sometimes	Yes — DOT compliant	Long-haul driving. DOT background check and drug testing required.
Mechanic	Sometimes	Yes	Truck and trailer maintenance. Diesel mechanic skills valued.

ABF Freight Hiring Practices

ABF Freight is the flagship carrier of ArcBest Corporation, a major LTL (less-than-truckload) freight company. ABF operates over 240 service centers across the US with a unionized workforce (International Brotherhood of Teamsters). The union environment provides additional job protections and consistent pay scales. Dock worker positions are the most accessible for people with criminal records. CDL driving positions are subject to DOT regulations including mandatory background checks and drug testing.

Background Check Process

ABF conducts background checks on all applicants. Dock worker and warehouse positions receive standard criminal history checks. CDL driving positions require DOT-compliant checks including criminal history, MVR (motor vehicle records), FMCSA Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse verification, and employment verification. The Teamsters union contract provides certain protections in the hiring process.

What Disqualifies You

For dock positions: violent felonies within the past 5-7 years and theft convictions are most likely to be an issue. Sex offenses are typically disqualifying. For CDL positions: DUI/DWI, drug trafficking, reckless driving, and certain violent felonies have specific waiting periods (typically 3-10 years). DOT regulations apply to all driving positions.

Tips for Getting Hired

Apply online through ArcBest's career portal. Target dock worker positions if you have a record. ABF's union environment means consistent pay, benefits, and job protections. Many dock workers transition to driving positions after building tenure. Be upfront about your record during the application process.

Application Tips for People with Records

1.Apply online through ArcBest's career portal for ABF Freight positions.
2.Target dock worker positions — they are the most accessible and provide union protections.
3.ABF is Teamsters union — expect consistent pay, benefits, and job protections.
4.Dock workers can transition to driving positions over time.
5.For CDL positions, know exactly how long ago each conviction occurred.
6.Be completely honest about your record — DOT checks are very thorough.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does ABF Freight hire felons?: ABF Freight hires some people with felony records, primarily for dock worker and freight handler positions. CDL driving positions have DOT requirements with specific waiting periods.
Does ABF Freight do background checks?: Yes, ABF conducts background checks for all positions. CDL positions require DOT-compliant checks.
Is ABF Freight union?: Yes, ABF Freight employees are represented by the International Brotherhood of Teamsters, which provides union pay scales, benefits, and job protections.
Does ABF Freight drug test?: Yes, especially for CDL positions which require DOT-mandated drug and alcohol testing.
How much does ABF Freight pay?: Dock workers earn $18-$25/hour under the Teamsters contract. CDL drivers earn more. Pay is standardized through the union contract.

Take Action — Direct Links

ArcBest/ABF Freight Careers
Official career page.
FMCSA Clearinghouse
Required for CDL holders.

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Helpful guides

Criminal LawTraffic / driving offense lawyer guide
RightsCan a felon travel to Mexico?
RecoveryOnline recovery meetings
Banking & CreditSecond chance bank accounts

Disclaimer: This is informational only, not legal advice. Company hiring policies change frequently and may vary by location, franchise, or position. Always confirm the current policy with the hiring manager or HR representative. A background check does not automatically disqualify you — you have rights under the EEOC guidelines and the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA).