First run tomorrow

Discussion in 'Experienced Truckers' Advice' started by Ironwindow, Apr 15, 2019.

  1. Ironwindow

    Ironwindow Light Load Member

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    WOO HOO! Finally get to put the wheels to the road and drive something loaded (that isn't a wrecker).

    Running from Duncan, SC to Chatanooga, TN and back again. Get to do that all week long with a trainer.

    He said he goes home when we are done each day but I'm more than welcome to fire up the APU and live out of the truck for the week.

    He told me to bring what I needed to, clothes, food, hygiene supplies, what not. Said he doesn't use the fridge or the sleeper so I'm welcome to use all the space... Not sure exactly how I feel about that. I know he doesn't use that space but I feel like I'd be in the way if I brought too much.

    Trying to decide if I should just bring clothes, hygiene supplies, and bedding or if I should bring food with me too.

    I'm just rambling on, nervous about what the day will bring. I'm sure once I get behind the wheel the nerves will go away.

    If you guys want to throw any advice my way, feel free to.
     
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  3. Cattleman84

    Cattleman84 Road Train Member

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    Dont get carried away with food... Munchies type stuff is good... Cereal, half gallon of milk, pop tarts, crackers. Once you get your own truck you can "Move In"
     
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  4. Ironwindow

    Ironwindow Light Load Member

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    That's kind of what I was thinking and feeling. Might just bring a 6 pack of soda and some snacks. I'll be able to hop in my car when we park and go grab some actual food if I need to.

    Checking the Google maps right now to see what kind of stores are close to the terminal.
     
  5. Cattleman84

    Cattleman84 Road Train Member

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    Once you go solo will you be OTR, Regional, or local???
     
  6. Ironwindow

    Ironwindow Light Load Member

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    I'll be driving a flex account so there will be times I'm home daily, home weekly, and home every 2 weeks. I'll have an assigned sleeper berth truck though, no slip seating.
     
  7. Ridlingdj

    Ridlingdj Medium Load Member

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    Just relax a take the bare minimum with you although if you're car is there at the terminal and that is where you are going every night then you can put more stuff in the car and see what your situation is and you might be able to get a bit more comfortable just dont get carried away
     
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  8. Gdog66223

    Gdog66223 Road Train Member

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    Pack light... I carry a backpack for shower supplies and a small duffel bag with clothes, so 2 bags...
     
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  9. Cattleman84

    Cattleman84 Road Train Member

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    Once you get to that point then you can get serious about really stocking up with food, tools, spare parts, nice bedding etc. But until you get your own truck and have a few months of solo experience I would just stick to the basics. No point in spending a bunch of $ when its still possible you may not like the job, or god forbid you dont make the cut... So to speak.

    Good luck to you... Dont hit anything.
     
  10. Ironwindow

    Ironwindow Light Load Member

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    Thanks! Those are the intentions.
     
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  11. tscottme

    tscottme Road Train Member

    "Less is more" when it comes to what food, how much food, and your other gear. Congratulations. Atlanta & Chattanooga are a real test of your patience. The way I navigate Atlamta and most big cities is to count the lanes from the median so I get in the lane I need as early as possible. This tip only works after you've been through the route once. On your return from Chattanooga toward Atlanta when I-75 S meets I-285 I get in lanes 4 or 5 for 285 Westside and lanes 5 or 6 for 285 Eastside.

    Go as slow as you need to do what YOU need to do. Do not worry about slowing down traffic to do what you need to do. And stay away from the Loves on I-75 Exit 283. It's too crowded & getting to the fuel pumps is a nightmare. The QT at Exit 306 is a great place to get some pizza.
     
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