Reasons to start or not to start a career in trucking.

Discussion in 'Questions From New Drivers' started by jake3015, Nov 3, 2010.

  1. dancnoone

    dancnoone "Village Idiot"

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    Sad but true for some.

    I can remember making $28k my second and third year, thinking I was rich.

    But I was also making .17 a mile too.

    If you have to ask, was it legal?....Go away.
     
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  3. Rockford

    Rockford Light Load Member

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    In my opinion the only reason to get into trucking (especially long haul) is because you love it. If you look at it as just a job that will get you get you a little more money than your current job there is a good chance you will regret it. It is very different from most jobs due to infrequent home time, long periods of solitude, irregular hours, etc. You need to be sure the extra money you would make is worth the sacrifices you will be making.

    If trucking is not something you love to do an extra few bucks every week is not going to be worth it. If you do love it, it can be a wonderful experience. For several years I owned nothing but my truck and what was in it. I took time off where I ever I felt like it. I loved it. In fact I am considering getting back into it despite making twice what I did as a driver because I do miss it.

    I guess what I am saying is don't let a few dollars every week make your decision, only do it if you think you will be happy with the job.
     
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  4. jake3015

    jake3015 Bobtail Member

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    I'm very mechanically inclined and work on automobiles so checking and adjusting things on the truck shouldn't be much of a problem. I love to drive but I know driving a truck requires more skill. It's not just about money. I want to love what I do and make money and have the potential to make more money. I want to be able to have job security and be able to change jobs if I don't care for another. Right now I don't have much choice with only a high school diploma.
     
  5. lupe

    lupe Medium Load Member

    May I ask what job you have now?
     
  6. Rockford

    Rockford Light Load Member

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    I'm a critical care nurse (ER/ICU).
     
  7. lupe

    lupe Medium Load Member

    Do you make like 60k now?
     
  8. Rockford

    Rockford Light Load Member

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    I made 80k last year working a 40 hour week. I know that many people will think I am crazy for wanting to get back into trucking, but I do miss it.
     
  9. lupe

    lupe Medium Load Member

    ^Wow!

    How do you get that job? Obviously you need a nursing degree, but I heard the job is actually scarce?
     
  10. lupe

    lupe Medium Load Member

    If you go back trucking I guess you would be making like 40k over 60-70 hour work week... but at least your mind is free for the most part while on the road.
     
  11. Rockford

    Rockford Light Load Member

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    Not scarce at all. Much like truck driving school, when you are close to graduating recruiters are everywhere. Since I got my critical care certification I receive e-mails almost daily from hospital recruiters.
     
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