Backing tip from a noob.

dang it I just hit that other trailer cuz I was looking to see which way to turn the dot...

 

GOAL !!!!!

 

Just use the mirrors.

 

That's the key, get out and look. Even if you have to do it 10+ times, also don't let other driver's push you into rushing or making a change into what you feel your doing is right. Also anytime you can get a helper do so.

 

Yeah, but if the helper backs you into something and walks away... your on your own...

 

Anything that will help you is fine as long as you don't leave any other part out. Don't let this little trick you use take place of making sure you're not backing blind and safely. And above all do not ever let another person push you into something that is outside your comfort zone.

 

I guess everyone has their own way of doing things. As long as you dont hit n e thing you are doing alright. Just dont get to confident after a few years you never have too much exp to make a mistake. Stick to your guns and never back up with doubt in your mind GOAL anytime you have a doubt.

 

When I first started backing I used a different aid. If I was straight line backing I would throw the top of the wheel towards the trailer. This would keep it behind me. If I was backing into a hole I would throw the bottom of the wheel because that makes the trailer react in the direction I intended.

If you can think in this manner, you save yourself from staring at your dot. I also had to learn to aim the wheels and not the back of the trailer towards the loading dock. I used to aim the back all the time and with the over hang I would get screwed up and come up short on the swing into a hole all the time. When you come up short it make it a very steep angle to correct and this is how most people swipe other trucks when first learning.