How secure are trucking jobs and how easy is it for new driver to get job?

Discussion in 'Questions From New Drivers' started by iamtrying, May 29, 2021.

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  1. iamtrying

    iamtrying Bobtail Member

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    How much lifting will be required for working in the trucking field. I ask this question because I am 60 years old.
     
    iamtrying, Jun 2, 2021
    #41
  2. kemosabi49

    kemosabi49 Trucker Forum STAFF Staff Member

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    Maybe it won't affect you, but for others it could definitely have an effect. Social Security retirement is determined by a persons top 35 years in earnings. So if you are now making less than your last top 35 years, then no affect on SS benefits. But for the many whose top earning years are the years leading up to their retirement, having a yearly gross that in substantially less do to taking per diem will most certainly affect their benefits.
     
    kemosabi49, Jun 2, 2021
    #42
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  3. Dockbumper

    Dockbumper Road Train Member

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    I understand your point. In my situation, it has no effect.
     
    Dockbumper, Jun 2, 2021
    #43
  4. Dockbumper

    Dockbumper Road Train Member

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    Unless you are doing good service, beverage delivery, some LTL freight.........virtually zero. I pull a Dry Van OTR and never leave a fingerprint on the freight. I worked construction for 30 years. I have no desire to lift anything in order to earn a paycheck anymore.
     
    Dockbumper, Jun 2, 2021
    #44
    MACK E-6 and iamtrying Thank this.
  5. iamtrying

    iamtrying Bobtail Member

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    Dang I am stuck!!! Do I continue trying to get a job in my field, or get a certificate in cyber security? I will be 61 soon!! Or do I drive for the remainder of my work life. I love to drive! Love it! Driving might be the only option to make sure I keep a stable job!!!
     
    iamtrying, Jun 2, 2021
    #45
  6. Atlanta trucker

    Atlanta trucker Road Train Member

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    None if you choose dry van and TELL your company that you are a NO TOUCH driver. Just be sure to state that before. Also you don’t have to do any thing you don’t want to do , that is the reason for memorial and veterans days. They gave us the freedom to say no.
     
    Atlanta trucker, Jun 2, 2021
    #46
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  7. Atlanta trucker

    Atlanta trucker Road Train Member

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    I continue to drive so I won't have to work. I failed twice at retirement but don't feel like working so I keep on driving.
     
    Atlanta trucker, Jun 2, 2021
    #47
    iamtrying Thanks this.
  8. WesternPlains

    WesternPlains Road Train Member

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    What is secure is your cdl. Many companies will sell you out in a heartbeat. Expect you to sacrifice your cdl to their company. Give you delivery demands that cannot be done. Then blame you.
    Protect your cdl.
    Dry van is sane. Don’t fall for reefer madness.
     
    WesternPlains, Jun 4, 2021
    #48
    iamtrying Thanks this.
  9. roundhouse

    roundhouse Road Train Member

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    If lifting cargo and stuff is an issue , One thing to consider , if you can deal with the cargo, is driving a school bus .

    where I live every county is begging for bus drivers with sign on bonuses , full health insurance, paid vacation etc .

    I’m 58, and I have no desire to lift heavy stuff for a paycheck anymore .
     
    roundhouse, Jun 4, 2021
    #49
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  10. Dockbumper

    Dockbumper Road Train Member

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    Hauling " live cargo" is not for everyone. Most school bus driving jobs pay lousy. You couldn't pay me enough to drive a box of kids around.
     
    Dockbumper, Jun 4, 2021
    #50
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