CDL training program

Some of us don't have those skills - yet. If I'm straight in front of the rear I can back it up 10-15 feet before it starts walking away. Any further than that and it ends up being a time sink.

I can also 'alley dock' the dolly in front of the trailer and get the lead straight with the dolly, but the tractor isn't straight and spending the time to fix it isn't worth it.

And that's assuming the ground is relatively level and smooth. I don't care what skills you have - you're not backing a lead and a dolly in our Stevens Point yard during winter or spring. It's hard enough with just the tractor.

A big part of the reason I'm focused on time is I'm bottom man on my bid run. The only time I get the vias is when no one else wants them and I'm generally running up against the 14.

 

Challenge accepted! I'm going to say I could do it. I've had to back it in some ridiculous spots. I'd like to see your Stevens Point yard.

 

In all of that you forgot about the snow and ice? Really?

As a former Swift driver, that 50-60 pounds to pull the 5th wheel lever usually only happened in those very cold winter months.
If there was ice where you need to stand to pull the lever, ... good luck.

As you intimated, the LTL world is on a totally different level, and even more so with snow and ice.

 

Good luck to ya!