Getting on a trainers truck: Questions I have

If youre running 48, before you get out of the truck, youre going to have to work in the snow and ice. You need at least 2 pair insulated gloves, wool socks and insulated boots. Take real good care of your boots and gloves. Make sure your gloves dry.

 

Basically you are a guest in someones home so treat it like such. Depending on how long you are out for will determine how much you will need. The goal should be less is better. The back of a cab is not exactly huge especially when you throw two people in there. If your trainer has specific rules make sure to follow them to the T. Being with a trainer can get old fast so anytime you can spend apart make sure you take it.

 

One packed duffle bag usually safe

When your driving, no need to look at the dood when your talking, keep watching the road please...lol

My last trainee insisted on looking at me, like alot!!! I had to bark at him many times to quit lookin at me ######!!!

I eventually quit talkin to him, out of safety concern...

 

Bring your own work gloves. My trainer had an extra pair that I could use but he was a nose picker.

 

First few days you'll probably observe what trainer is doing so I would take notes and don't be shy about asking questions.

 

The tractor belongs to the trainer the trainer is responsible for the day by day operation. THIS IS THE TRAINERS HOME YOU ARE ONLY A GUEST FOR A SHORT PERIOD OF TIME. If possible try to communicate with said trainer about how much room you have. Then bring ONLY what the trainer suggests. If you can't speak with trainer I suggest a weeks worth of clothing, a pair of comfortable shoes AND a pair of rubber boots. A small shaving kit for personal needs and meds and things like gloves and sunglasses. You will need bedding and a pillow, I also suggest a sleeping bag. Then I suggest something like a laptop to keep you entertained.

 

When you get into your trainer's truck the golden rule is treat it like it was your own. Meaning, don't trash the truck, if you smoke don't put ashes on floor, etc. Just common sense stuff. Unless your a pig, you need to treat it just like you said, that your going to a friends house to visit.
Another thing is yes give that trainer the respect that his position entitles him to, but don't be afraid to have a pair of cajones either. The first thing you should do when you meet your trainer is open the door, if a mountain of garbage falls out the passenger door, or an odor worse than a beef feeder farm hits you don't be afraid to say something to someone. You have to realize that your putting your life in that person's hands as they are too when your driving. Trainers are suppose to teach, not simply use you as an extra log book when they are tired. Make sure that you get an opportunity to drive all hours of the day, don't just drive during the day or night, rather switch between them so that you can get accustomed to abnormal sleep patterns. Make sure your trainer allows you to back in the dock between trucks or when its tight cause if they don't , your not gonna be able to do it on your own.
I could sit here and write a book about what to do , what to expect, and what not to tolerate,, just remember that what your trainer teaches you has a direct impact on how your going to drive that truck. Lastly, your gonna come down thousands of hills too slow,,, your only going to come down one too fast. God bless and good luck with your new career.

 

Get all of your Truckstop rewards cards NOW. TA, Petro, Loves, Flying J, and any I missed. Might as well get the points when you fuel the truck...