My Journey as a Truck Driver

he hasn't been around for about 6 weeks,

not looking good..........

 

Well, I hope he's O.K. but it seems these things happen (whatever that means)
Don't let the Minahunees get you!

 

I guess Shrug is real busy.I recruited him to the company I work at and he's doing great.He's driving a company truck for a while and wants to lease.He's got alot of iron's in the fire and doesn't post on here,I've told him to come on here and let his fan's(lol) know what's up.

 

DocFrank, thank you so much for the great video tips! This will help immensely! I love how everyone helps each other out on this site...thank you to everyone!

 

Glad Shrug got out and into somewhere better! Looking forward to seeing how he's doing. Really like the way everyone takes care of each other out there! I'm a new grad looking for local, and not having much luck. May end up OTR, which I really don't want to do, but reading posts from here is helping my anxiety some. I've been out of school 4 wks now, and I'm feeling the pressure. I also miss driving. I will continue to read, and I thank all you pros out there for helping out!

 

Mr.Chips, OTR is the way to go for your first hire, if you can do it a year.Seems like everyone hiring is always looking for experience and OTR. Also, be sure to get at least your hazmat, not only do most places require you to have it, it just makes good sense as you won't have to turn down loads because you don't have it. Also go ahead and get your triple/double as it means you will have more opportunities for miles. In short, do everything you can to make yourself more valuable and versatile an employee.

 

Thank you, DocFrank, for the advice. I'm a 54 yr old female, my family is grown, but I have a dog that I'm having trouble leaving behind, and taking him with me is out of the question. I have my dbl/tpl and tanker endorsements, but not hazmat. I've been reading the manual, but having trouble retaining the info. I'm starting to get used to the idea that I'll have to do OTR for awhile to get experience. I realize I'm being too picky, but at my age, I was hoping not to work nights and weekends anymore (been there, done that, although not in trucking) I guess I just need to get over my fears, and think of the great adventure this will be. Again, I thank you for your advice, reading posts on this forum has really helped, and seeing repeat posts from people such as yourself has really given me more of a sense of calm...there really are nice, supportive people out there that are willing to give valuable help...I'll need lots of it!

 

No problem Ms. Chips! I'm 58 so don't feel like you're the Lone Rangerette.lol. For the Hazmat test, go to the practice tests on Truckers Report also review the tests on Crist Practice exams and Free CDL practice exams. www.cristcdl.com/otc/ and http://www.truckercountry.com/cdl-practice-tests.html. Hope this helps. Also read up on the relevant pages in the DOT book or your states DPS manual. Remember, you can take the test again (3 times in 90 days in Texas) if you don't pass the first time. Lots of luck and keep at it. There are some companies that allow pets in the truck. Swift isn't one of them worse luck. I have a little buddy I'd love to take with me but it's probably all for the best. I can see how it might be a safety issue as he likes to curl up at my feet and that could be a problem.

 

If you don't want to go home, don't team with anyone that you are not married to. I have lived in a truck for 5 years, with no home base, be sure you have a car at the terminal, and at least one months hotel money in the bank..... incase you lose your job. I know a couple of guys that have 5th wheel campers parked, just for somewhere to go, if something happens. You can lose your job for being late, or making your dispatcher mad at you. FYI: flat bed pays more than regular freight, but is more work. Good luck! I hope you love trucking as much as I do.

 

Nights and week ends are going to be a big part of your new life. You will get used to the 14 hours on 10 off, and the rotating schedule. Hang in there. It will all be worth it, I promise!