Although I tend to respect most the opinions expressed through this forum, I have to say I disagree with the demonization of teaming, especially when it's offered as advice to new drivers. Teaming isn't for everyone, sure. And if you're somebody who enjoys being by yourself and has a fairly strong grasp on the industry and how to drive, teaming probably isn't for you. But a majority of new drivers still don't know jack #### even after they've completed school and training. They get thrown out to wolves after a month or two and most get so scared or frustrated that they quit all together and never return.
Teaming allows a new driver to learn and experience the ropes with ANOTHER DRIVER. You're never alone out there, and sometimes thats the most important thing. Teaming can also be much safer for new drivers, minimizing the risk of perventable backing accidents at truck stops, terminals and loading docks. It can maximize efficiency, guaranteeing new drivers a slightly higher initial income. At most companies, teams are ahead of solo drivers for load assignments and run more loads further during a pay period. PLUS, many companies offer a higher sign on bonus for teams. If you get along well with your co driver, it can also promote better mental health and minimize the risk of psycho-somatic disorders common with extended periods of isolation. Teaming builds comradery and teaches new drivers to work together to solve problems out on the road. One borrows knowledge from the other, and both are wiser from the experience.
When two newer drivers team, they learn to adapt to the OTR lifestyle together. OTR is no nine to five, and if you're entirely new to the business, it's going to take more than 30 or 40 days with a trainer to fully adapt. I've talked to new drivers who were terrified of getting off of their training trucks, because they knew they'd be out there alone and didn't yet have the necessary skills or mindset. Think about that. They were literally living in somebody else's truck, under somebody else's rules, making next to nothing...and they still didn't want to leave! The problem is that most of these companies only pay a state minimum wage for training, which incentivizes new recruits to "go solo" prematurely. New driver teaming allows you to upgrade your pay quite significantly (relatively speaking), gain some personal freedoms, and still have the comfort of knowing you're not alone. And lets face it, most of these "company trainers" are little more than new drivers themselves. In my opinion, there are recent CDL graduates who have a better grasp on operating a truck than some trainers do...
Teaming is NOT for everyone, and this certainly isn't meant to dissuade veteran solo drivers from their lifestyle (Lord knows I couldn't do that anyway). All I'm asking is that we as experienced or somewhat experienced drivers not demonize the idea of running teams when offering advice to new guys. Teaming can be an extremely positive experience for new drivers, but they'll never know that if we discourage them from the start. Why do I feel this way? Because I was one of those new drivers. I was so against teaming because of things I'd been told...and as soon as I got out there on my own, I realized how wrong I'd been.
There's a huge catalyst in all of this as well. If you don't get along with your teammate, nothing I've mentioned above will apply to your situation. So take time to get to know your prospective co driver and decide if they're the right person for you to work with. If you're a halfway agreeable driver, it shouldn't be hard to find a suitable co-driver. They don't have to be your best friend, but being able to get along peacefully and respect one and other is a bare minimum essential...
Why Do We Demonize Team Driving?
Discussion in 'Questions From New Drivers' started by CaliforniaxCowboy, Oct 15, 2013.
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